Chicago Divorce Attorney
High-Asset Cases & Complex Property Division
You didn't plan for this. But now your business, retirement accounts, and everything you've built are on the table. I've guided clients through high-asset divorces in Cook County for over a decade. Here's what you need to know—and what can wait.
Understanding Your Situation
The fear is real. You're wondering if you'll lose half of everything. If your spouse's attorney will find assets you didn't know existed. If your business partner is about to become your ex-spouse's business partner.
I've sat across from hundreds of people asking these exact questions. Most of those fears don't materialize—but some risks are real, and you need to know which ones apply to your situation.
Here's what most people don't realize: Illinois is an equitable distribution state, not a 50/50 state. That means the division must be "fair"—and fair doesn't always mean equal. When you have:
- Business ownership with commingled marital and non-marital funds
- Executive compensation (stock options, deferred comp, bonuses)
- Professional practices (law firms, medical groups, dental practices)
- Real estate portfolios across multiple entities
- Retirement accounts with pre-marital contributions
...the math gets complicated. And complicated math is where cases are won or lost.
What Type of Representation Do You Need?
Every divorce is different. Select the area that best describes your situation.
High-Asset Divorce
Complex asset division, business valuation, protecting substantial wealth.
Child Custody
Allocation of parental responsibilities, parenting time, and relocation.
Contested Litigation
When settlement fails, we're prepared to prove your case in court.
Privacy & Digital
Protecting your digital life, data, and reputation during divorce.
Not All Chicago Divorce Attorneys Are The Same
Many attorneys are "settlers" who avoid court at all costs. Others are "litigators" who churn files but lack the technical knowledge for modern financial and digital evidence.
Jonathan D. Steele combines high-stakes family law experience at Beermann LLP with specialized cybersecurity credentials. This means we don't just argue the law—we find the evidence, protect your privacy, and build cases that hold up against the toughest opposition in Cook County.
- Partner-Level Resources: Backed by Beermann LLP, one of Illinois' premier family law firms.
- Tech-Forward Practice: We understand crypto, digital tracking, and modern asset concealment.
- Trial-Ready Preparation: Every case is prepared as if it will go to trial—which often forces better settlements.
- Transparent Communication: Direct access to your attorney, not just a paralegal.
Credentials & Experience
Education & Admission
- • Licensed Illinois Attorney
- • Partner, Beermann LLP
Court Experience
- • Cook County Circuit Court (Domestic Relations Division)
- • DuPage, Lake, Will, Kane County Courts
- • Illinois Appellate Court
Technical Credentials
- • CompTIA Security+ Certified
- • ISC2 Certified in Cybersecurity (CC)
- • EC-Council Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)
Our Divorce Process
Consultation
Free case evaluation to understand your goals, assets, and concerns.
Strategy
Develop a customized approach based on your specific circumstances.
Discovery & Negotiation
Thorough investigation and strategic negotiation toward settlement.
Resolution
Settlement agreement or trial—we're prepared for either path.
Cook County Divorce Court Experience
Richard J. Daley Center
The main courthouse for Chicago divorces. The Domestic Relations Division handles cases for Chicago residents. We're familiar with the procedures, judges, and court staff.
50 W. Washington Street, Chicago, IL 60602
Suburban Districts
We also handle cases in Cook County's suburban courthouses:
- • Skokie - North Suburban
- • Rolling Meadows - Northwest Suburban
- • Bridgeview - Southwest Suburban
- • Markham - South Suburban
- • Maywood - West Suburban
Chicago Neighborhoods & Suburbs We Serve
City Neighborhoods
North Shore
Western Suburbs
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a divorce attorney cost in Chicago?
Chicago divorce attorney fees typically range from $300-$500 per hour. The total cost depends on case complexity. Uncontested divorces may cost $3,000-$7,000, while contested high-asset cases can range from $25,000-$100,000+. We provide transparent billing and discuss fee structures during your consultation.
How long does a divorce take in Cook County?
In Cook County, uncontested divorces can be finalized in 2-4 months after the mandatory waiting period. Contested divorces typically take 12-24 months depending on complexity, discovery requirements, and court scheduling.
Is Illinois a 50/50 divorce state?
No. Illinois is an "equitable distribution" state. Under 750 ILCS 5/503, courts divide marital property fairly—which doesn't always mean equally. Factors include each spouse's contribution, economic circumstances, and other considerations.
Can I protect my business in an Illinois divorce?
Yes, but strategy is critical. If you owned the business before marriage, its pre-marital value may be protected. However, any increase in value during the marriage could be marital property. Accurate business valuation and tracing of non-marital contributions are essential.
What if my spouse is hiding assets?
Illinois courts take hidden assets seriously. Through formal discovery, we can subpoena bank records, tax returns, and business financials. We work with forensic accountants when needed. Courts can sanction spouses who hide assets.
Do I need a lawyer if we agree on everything?
We recommend having an attorney review your agreement. Many "agreed" divorces contain provisions that are unfavorable regarding retirement accounts (QDRO issues), tax implications, or hidden liabilities. An attorney review can identify problems before they become expensive mistakes.
Divorce Resources
Marital Property in Illinois
Understanding how Illinois courts divide assets and what counts as marital vs. non-marital property.
Read Guide →How Long Does Divorce Take?
Timeline expectations for contested and uncontested divorces in Illinois courts.
Read Guide →Attorney Fees in Illinois Divorce
When courts order one spouse to pay the other's attorney fees.
Read Guide →Ready to Discuss Your Case?
The most expensive divorce isn't the one where you hire an experienced attorney. It's the one where you don't—and discover the mistake years later.
Schedule a confidential consultation to discuss your situation and develop a strategy.
Requesting a consultation does not create an attorney-client relationship. An attorney-client relationship is only formed after a written engagement agreement is signed.
ATTORNEY ADVERTISING
This website is designed for general information only. The information presented should not be construed as formal legal advice nor the formation of a lawyer/client relationship. Past results do not guarantee future outcomes. Each case is unique and must be evaluated on its own facts.
Responsible Attorney: Jonathan D. Steele | Beermann LLP | 77 W. Wacker Drive, Suite 4500, Chicago, IL 60601