Business Details
Trusted Illinois Family Law Attorneys
The Gitlin Law Firm has been a trusted leader in Illinois family law for over three decades. Founded by Gunnar J. Gitlin, our firm specializes exclusively in divorce, custody, and related family law matters, combining deep legal expertise with a commitment to client advocacy. We authored the definitive treatise on Illinois family law, Gitlin on Divorce, which is widely cited by courts and legal professionals. Our attorneys, including Stephanie A. Kasten, are recognized nationally for their excellence and are fellows of the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers.We prioritize strategic, cost-effective solutions through collaborative divorce and traditional litigation, leveraging our extensive experience to protect clients' interests. Our focus on family law ensures unparalleled efficiency and insight, making us a go-to resource for complex cases. We serve clients across McHenry County, Lake Geneva, and surrounding areas, offering personalized guidance tailored to each family's unique needs.
Services
Divorce
Alimony
Custody
Property Division
Collaborative Divorce
Relocation Cases
Prenuptial Agreements
Mediation
Maintenance Modification
Parentage
Highlights and features
- We authored the leading treatise on Illinois family law, Gitlin on Divorce.
- Our attorneys are fellows of the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers.
- 30+ years of experience in complex family law cases.
- Recognized by Best Lawyers in America since 2007.
- Specialized focus on family law ensures unmatched expertise.
Associations and certifications
- Best Lawyers in America
- American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers
- Illinois Leading Lawyers
What people say
Expert legal guidance
Successful case outcomes
Personalized attention
Deep legal knowledge
Professional representation
Services
Divorce Representation
Our firm provides comprehensive divorce representation, addressing asset division, spousal support, and child-related matters. We combine litigation expertise with collaborative approaches to achieve fair outcomes. Clients benefit from our deep understanding of Illinois family law and decades of courtroom experience.
Child Custody
We handle custody cases involving parental responsibilities and parenting time, focusing on children's best interests. Our attorneys navigate complex custody disputes and relocation cases, ensuring clients understand their rights and obligations under Illinois law.
Alimony Advocacy
We represent clients in alimony determinations, modifications, and enforcement cases. Our team explains Illinois maintenance guidelines and advocates for equitable support arrangements based on individual circumstances and financial needs.
Collaborative Divorce
This alternative to traditional litigation fosters cooperative problem-solving through trained professionals. We guide couples toward mutually beneficial agreements while minimizing conflict and preserving relationships, particularly beneficial for co-parenting families.
Property Division
We handle complex property division cases involving marital and non-marital assets. Our expertise includes tracing premarital assets, valuing businesses, and dividing retirement accounts to ensure equitable outcomes under Illinois law.
People
Gunnar J. Gitlin
Founding Attorney
Gunnar J. Gitlin has practiced family law for over 30 years and authored the leading Illinois family law treatise. Recognized by Best Lawyers in America since 2007, he specializes in complex divorce cases and legal reforms.
Stephanie A. Kasten
Family Law Attorney
Stephanie A. Kasten focuses on family law with 20 years of experience. A fellow of the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers, she represents clients in divorce, custody, and collaborative law matters across Illinois.
Questions
What factors determine child custody in Illinois?
Illinois courts prioritize the child's best interests, considering caretaking functions, parental decision-making responsibilities, and the child's preferences if mature enough to express reasoned opinions.
How does Illinois handle property division in divorce?
Illinois divides marital property equitably based on factors like marriage duration, each spouse's financial situation, and contributions to marital assets, not automatically 50/50.
Can I relocate with my children after divorce?
Relocation requires court approval if moving more than 25 miles (collar counties) or 50 miles (downstate). Courts evaluate the move's impact on the child's best interests.
What is collaborative divorce?
Collaborative divorce is a non-adversarial process where both parties work with trained professionals to reach mutually beneficial agreements without court intervention.
How are alimony payments determined in Illinois?
Illinois uses maintenance guidelines considering income disparities, marriage duration, and the standard of living, with courts having discretion to deviate based on specific circumstances.
