Family Law Services
Family law has been the backbone of our Firm since its inception. Both of our Attorneys have extensive experience representing clients in all areas of family law, including divorce, parental decision-making (formerly custody), parenting time (formerly visitation), child support, maintenance, and orders of protection.
In addition, we are trained and certified Guardian Ad Litems - those Attorneys that are appointed by the Court to work solely on the behalf of the child to determine what is in their best interests. Attorney Berger, in particular, has over ten years of experience investigating family relationships and making recommendations to the Court. This experience gives us a unique insight into custody cases and the most effective approaches to take with both Judges and opposing counsel.
It is also our privilege to facilitate all types of adoptions. It is truly a Family Lawyer's joy to bring an adoption matter to a close and thereby welcome a new family to the community.
Mediation (for Mediation Scheduling see our Mediation Guide)
"Discourage litigation. Persuade your neighbors to compromise whenever you can. As a peacemaker the lawyer has superior opportunity of being a good man. There will still be business enough."
- Abraham Lincoln
Nowhere is this maxim more true than in the realm of Family Law, particularly with respect to custody disputes. While it is often necessary to go to court and fight for your children, the reality is that custody litigation can have serious and lasting negative effects for the very children you are trying to protect.
Mediation is the best tool you and your advocate have to try to achieve a positive outcome for your family without incurring both the financial and emotional costs of extended litigation. For this reason, mediation is also required by the Illinois Supreme Court in all child-related disputes, before parties can proceed to litigation.
As one of the most experienced mediators in Ogle County, Attorney Berger works doggedly with co-parents to resolve their disputes. Employing creative problem-solving, she helps parents to keep in mind that the controlling factor in all of their decision-making should be the best interests of their children, while also attempting to satisfy the concerns of both parents.
