Ward Family Law

# WARD FAMILY LAW, LLC

> Welcome to WARD FAMILY LAW, LLC Chicago Divorce and Family Law Attorneys Jennifer R. Ward WARD FAMILY LAW, LLC was established to provide clients with access to excellent advocates, negotiators,

---


## Pages

- [Custody Without Marriage](https://wardfamilylawchicago.com/family-law/custody-without-marriage/): Ensure your child's future is secure with the guidance of an experienced Chicago child custody attorney from WARD FAMILY LAW, LLC.
- [Enforcement of Court Orders and Judgments](https://wardfamilylawchicago.com/enforcement-of-court-orders-and-judgments-in-chicago-divorce-law): If a former spouse isn’t complying with court-ordered child support, spousal maintenance, or property division, call a Chicago divorce lawyer for help.
- [Asset/Debt Allocation](https://wardfamilylawchicago.com/chicago-asset-debt-allocation-lawyer): Chicago divorce law mandates fair division of marital assets/debts per the IMDMA. For guidance through this process, contact a Chicago divorce lawyer today.
- [Business/Property Valuation](https://wardfamilylawchicago.com/business-property-valuation-attorney-chicago): In Illinois divorces, business & property valuations are key for fair asset division. Expert appraisals ensure equity. Contact a Chicago divorce lawyer for help.
- [Associate Attorneys](https://wardfamilylawchicago.com/founder-profile-chicago-il/associate-attorneys/): Here are our Associate Attorneys. Contact WARD FAMILY LAW, LLC if you are considering divorce or have a question regarding family law. Our Chicago family law attorneys are ready to help.
- [Of Counsel](https://wardfamilylawchicago.com/of-counsel/): Of Counsel, has significant matrimonial and family law experience including court appointments as a guardian ad litem, is a certified Chicago mediator and a collaborative law fellow.
- [Home](https://wardfamilylawchicago.com/home/): At WARD FAMILY LAW, LLC, we understand the emotional challenges of family law matters. Our Chicago family law attorneys are committed to providing compassionate support and robust legal representation tailored to your unique situation.
- [Sitemap](https://wardfamilylawchicago.com/sitemap/): Empower yourself with WARD FAMILY LAW, LLC. Our knowledgeable Chicago family law attorneys are committed to protecting your rights and interests in divorce and other family-related legal issues.
- [The Typical Divorce Process in Illinois](https://wardfamilylawchicago.com/the-typical-divorce-process-in-illinois/): The divorce process can be a long and tiring process. Let our Chicago divorce attorneys help you! Contact WARD FAMILY LAW, LLC today.
- [Non-Marital Property](https://wardfamilylawchicago.com/non-marital-property-chicago-il/): Retaining a highly-experienced and knowledgeable Chicago divorce attorney is important to ensure that the proper characterization and allocation of marital and non-marital assets will occur. Contact WARD FAMILY LAW, LLC today.
- [Contested Cases](https://wardfamilylawchicago.com/contested-cases-chicago-il/): As an experienced contested divorce attorney in Chicago, Ms. Ward understands that each couple's disputed issues are unique. Call our firm to discuss your contested or uncontested divorce.
- [Guardian Ad Litem & Child's Representative](https://wardfamilylawchicago.com/guardian-ad-litem-childs-representative-chicago-il/): A guardian ad litem is an attorney that represents children for family and divorce disputes. If you are in need of a Chicago guardian ad litem, contact the WARD FAMILY LAW, LLC today to learn more.
- [Collaborative Law](https://wardfamilylawchicago.com/collaborative-law-chicago-il/): If you’re looking for a collaborative lawyer in Chicago to help you avoid unnecessary court costs and lawyer fees, contact WARD FAMILY LAW, LLC today to schedule a consultation.
- [Chicago Divorce Attorneys](https://wardfamilylawchicago.com/divorce-chicago-il/): Top rated Chicago divorce attorneys with 20+ years’ experience. Ward Family Law provides compassionate counsel in divorce, custody, and family law. Call (312) 262-5972 for a free consultation.
- [Civil Union & Same-Sex Marriage Dissolution](https://wardfamilylawchicago.com/civil-union-same-sex-marriage-chicago-il/): Do you need help with same-sex marriage or a civil union issue? Contact our Chicago civil union divorce lawyers at WARD FAMILY LAW, LLC, today to schedule a consultation.
- [Chicago Child Support Attorneys](https://wardfamilylawchicago.com/child-support-chicago-il/): Child support is one of the most contested and important decisions in a divorce filing. If you are in need of a Chicago child support attorney or have an Illiois child support modification that you need to file, contact the office of WARD FAMILY LAW, LLC today to learn more.
- [Allocation of Parental Responsibility;  Child Custody & Visitation](https://wardfamilylawchicago.com/child-custody-chicago-il/): Illinois parental responsibility is also known as child custody and parenting time. The value of your children in your life, and the time you spend with them is paramount. Contact the Chicago child custody attorneys at WARD FAMILY LAW, LLC today to schedule an appointment.
- [Paternity &  Parentage Cases](https://wardfamilylawchicago.com/paternity-cases-chicago-il/): If you're questioning paternity issues or parentage issues due to a relationship in which you were not married, but have questions about child custody, child support and more, contact our Chicago paternity lawyers today at WARD FAMILY LAW, LLC to schedule a consultation.
- [Spousal Maintenance; Alimony & Spousal Support](https://wardfamilylawchicago.com/alimony-spousal-support-chicago-il/): If you’re looking for a spousal support attorney in Chicago to help you with this very important concern, and any other divorce concerns that you may have, contact WARD FAMILY LAW, LLC today.
- [Marital Settlement  Agreements & Negotiation](https://wardfamilylawchicago.com/marital-settlement-agreements-chicago-il/): A marital settlement agreement spells out the terms of the divorce and the relationship between the two spouses after the divorce. If you have questions, contact our Chicago marital settlement attorney today.
- [Marital & Non-Marital  Property Division](https://wardfamilylawchicago.com/property-division-chicago-il/): There are laws governing Illinois marital property, and you want to make sure to speak with a Chicago marital property division lawyer to represent you. Contact WARD FAMILY LAW, LLC today to discuss your divorce and property division concerns.
- [Formal Discovery](https://wardfamilylawchicago.com/formal-discovery-chicago-il/): Formal Discovery is the process of obtaining information from the other party. Click the link to learn more about the formal discovery process with a Chicago divorce lawyer.
- [Premarital / Prenuptial & Postnuptial Agreements](https://wardfamilylawchicago.com/premarital-prenuptial-and-postnuptial-agreements-chicago-il/): In Illinois, a premarital agreement is a legal contract that the parties enter before their marriage. A postnuptial agreement is an agreement that a married couple enters into once they are married. If you need the assistance of a Chicago prenuptial agreement lawyer, contact WARD FAMILY LAW, LLC to start drafting your agreement. 
- [Domestic Violence](https://wardfamilylawchicago.com/domestic-violence-proceedings-chicago-il/): Domestic abuse is more than just physical violence. Know the emotional, psychological, and financial forms of abuse. Contact our domestic abuse lawyer in Chicago today to schedule a consultation.
- [Post-Decree Issues & Modifications/Enforcement of Orders and Judgments](https://wardfamilylawchicago.com/enforcement-of-a-judgment-for-dissolution-of-marriage-and-post-decree-issues-chicago-il/): Post-decree issues can include modifications to property division, child support, maintenance, or parental responsibilities and parenting time. Contact our Chicago divorce modifications attorney today to schedule an appointment.
- [Mediation Services](https://wardfamilylawchicago.com/alternative-dispute-resolution-mediation-services-chicago-il/): Mediation is a commonly used service to settle legal disputes between parties. If you are in need of Chicago mediation services, please contact the office of WARD FAMILY LAW, LLC today to schedule a consultation with a Chicago mediator.
- [Uncontested Cases](https://wardfamilylawchicago.com/uncontested-cases-chicago-il/): Our Chicago uncontested divorce lawyers at WARD FAMILY LAW, LLC are here to assist you through this process. Call us or contact us online today to schedule an appointment with our knowledgeable uncontested divorce attorneys.
- [Family Law](https://wardfamilylawchicago.com/family-law/): Family courts oversee many types of cases that can impact your relationship with your spouse or children, as well as your finances. You always want to make sure you have the best family law attorney in Chicago.
- [Cookie Policy (US)](https://wardfamilylawchicago.com/cookie-policy-us/): WARD FAMILY LAW, LLC cares about your privacy. Read our website’s cookie policy, and call us to speak with a trusted Chicago divorce lawyer near you today.
- [Privacy statement (US)](https://wardfamilylawchicago.com/privacy-statement-us/): WARD FAMILY LAW, LLC values your privacy. View our privacy statement here, and call our Chicago property division attorneys today to learn more about our services.
- [College Expenses  for Children & Divorce](https://wardfamilylawchicago.com/college-expenses-for-children-divorce/): If you're filing for a divorce and have questions about who will be investing and paying for your child's college tuition, contact a qualified attorneys at WARD FAMILY LAW, LLC today to learn more today.
- [Life Insurance in Divorce](https://wardfamilylawchicago.com/life-insurance-in-divorce/): Learn how divorce can have an affect on life insurance. Call our divorce attorneys in Chicago for more information.
- [Retirement & Investment Accounts in Divorce](https://wardfamilylawchicago.com/retirement-investment-accounts-in-divorce/): Need help dividing retirement accounts in a divorce? Our Chicago family law attorneys specialize in equitable allocation of 401(k)s, IRAs, pensions, annuities, brokerage and investment accounts. We handle QDROs, beneficiary updates, valuation and tax-efficient transfers, schedule a free consultation today.
- [Accessibility Notifications](https://wardfamilylawchicago.com/accessibility/): This page is for accessibility notifications on the website of WARD FAMILY LAW, LLC, a Chicago divorce law firm.
- [Reviews](https://wardfamilylawchicago.com/reviews/): We have many reviews from former clients who appreciated the level of representation we were able to provide.  If you are in need of a divorce attorney in Chicago, contact WARD FAMILY LAW, LLC today to learn more.
- [Jennifer R. Ward](https://wardfamilylawchicago.com/jennifer-r-ward-chicago-il/): Jennifer R. Ward is an accomplished family law attorney in Chicago who represents clients in cases involving divorce, child support, alimony and more. Call our firm to speak to Ms. Ward at a consultation.
- [Blog](https://wardfamilylawchicago.com/blog-chicago-il/): Divorce is a challenging time for both parties, and our Chicago divorce lawyers can help you reach a fair agreement as soon as possible. Call WARD FAMILY LAW, LLC today.
- [Thank You](https://wardfamilylawchicago.com/thank-you-chicago-il/): Thank you for expressing an interest in our legal services at WARD FAMILY LAW, LLC. Our Chicago family law attorneys will return your request shortly.
- [Free Initial Consultations](https://wardfamilylawchicago.com/free-initial-consultations-chicago-il/): The Chicago divorce lawyers at WARD FAMILY LAW, LLC provide a free initial consultation with every prospective client. The initial consultation could be by telephone, in-person, live chat or video teleconference.
- [In the Press](https://wardfamilylawchicago.com/in-the-press-chicago-il/): WARD FAMILY LAW, LLC has been recognized for its family law attorneys in Chicago. View our press coverage here to learn more about our firm’s impact in the lives of our divorce, child custody, child support and alimony lawyers.
- [Disclaimer](https://wardfamilylawchicago.com/disclaimer/): This Disclaimer sets forth the general guidelines, terms and conditions of your use of the website and any of its products or services for WARD FAMILY LAW, LLC, child custody attorneys in Chicago.
- [Privacy Policy](https://wardfamilylawchicago.com/privacy-policy/): Your privacy is important to WARD FAMILY LAW, LLC. Learn about our privacy policy here, and call our Chicago parenting time attorneys today to set up a consultation.
- [Contact Us](https://wardfamilylawchicago.com/contact-us-chicago-il/): If you’re looking for a Chicago divorce lawyer, and have many questions, our attorneys have the answers you're looking for in regard to child support, child custody, alimony, prenuptial agreements, QRDO, domestic abuse and violence. Contact us today.
- [Founder/Partner Profiles](https://wardfamilylawchicago.com/founder-profile-chicago-il/): The Chicago divorce attorneys at WARD FAMILY LAW, LLC are here for you for all types of family law matters, including divorce, child support, spousal support, parenting time, and premarital agreements.
- [Areas of Practice](https://wardfamilylawchicago.com/areas-of-practice-chicago-il/): Ward Family Law, LLC in Chicago offers compassionate, expert legal representation in divorce, child custody, alimony, property division, mediation, and post-divorce modifications. Trust our experienced team to guide your family through every stage with clarity and care.
- [Welcome to WARD FAMILY LAW, LLC](https://wardfamilylawchicago.com/): Our Chicago family law attorneys will help protect what you value most. We will help navigate your divorce and work for a fair resolution. Please call us to schedule an appointment with our skilled Chicago divorce attorneys today.

---


## Posts

- [What Is Parental Alienation, and How Can You Address It?](https://wardfamilylawchicago.com/what-is-parental-alienation-and-how-can-you-address-it/): Parental alienation can have devastating effects on a family’s harmony. Protect your parental rights with a Chicago family law attorney at WARD FAMILY LAW, LLC.
- [The Importance of Keeping a Record: Documenting Evidence in Family Law Cases](https://wardfamilylawchicago.com/the-importance-of-keeping-a-record-documenting-evidence-in-family-law-cases/): Proper documentation strengthens your family law case, but selecting the right information can be challenging. Seek guidance from talented Chicago family law attorneys.
- [What Legal Options Are Available for LGBTQ+ Couples Facing Divorce or Custody Disputes?](https://wardfamilylawchicago.com/what-legal-options-are-available-for-lgbtq-couples-facing-divorce-or-custody-disputes/): The Chicago LGBTQ marriage lawyers at WARD FAMILY LAW, LLC, provide compassionate and experienced legal support to couples navigating same-sex divorce.
- [Does Cheating Affect Divorce Outcomes?](https://wardfamilylawchicago.com/does-cheating-affect-divorce-outcomes/): Cheating may not impact finances, but it can affect parenting. Contact WARD FAMILY LAW, Chicago divorce attorney, to discuss your options.
- [Can Child Support Be Modified if One Parent Remarries in Illinois?](https://wardfamilylawchicago.com/can-child-support-be-modified-if-one-parent-remarries-in-illinois/): Learn how remarriage can impact child support in Illinois. Contact an experienced Chicago child support lawyer at WARD FAMILY LAW, LLC for guidance.
- [What Makes A Divorce A High Net Worth Case?](https://wardfamilylawchicago.com/what-makes-a-divorce-a-high-net-worth-case/): Educate yourself on your marital estate before divorce. Contact WARD FAMILY LAW, a high net worth divorce attorney in Chicago, today.
- [Can You Modify Agreements on the Allocation of Parental Responsibility in Illinois?](https://wardfamilylawchicago.com/can-you-modify-agreements-on-the-allocation-of-parental-responsibility-in-illinois/): Modify parental responsibility agreements in Illinois with legal guidance. Learn the 
process and legal requirements. Contact our Chicago parental responsibilities attorney at WARD FAMILY LAW, LLC.
- [The Top 7 healthy Co-Parenting Boundaries That Work](https://wardfamilylawchicago.com/the-top-7-healthy-co-parenting-boundaries-that-work/): Struggling with co-parenting boundaries? A Chicago parenting time attorney at WARD FAMILY LAW can help. Contact us today for guidance.
- [Custody Rights for LGBTQ+ Parents](https://wardfamilylawchicago.com/custody-rights-for-lgbtq-parents/): Learn about parental rights for LGBTQ+ parents in Illinois. Get guidance from a Chicago LGBTQ+ family law attorney at WARD FAMILY LAW, LLC, to protect your parental role.
- [How Domestic Violence Affects Divorce Proceedings](https://wardfamilylawchicago.com/how-domestic-violence-affects-divorce-proceedings/): Learn how domestic violence impacts divorce proceedings, including the allocation of parental responsibilities,  property division, and safety measures. Contact a compassionate Chicago divorce attorney at WARD FAMILY LAW, LLC for guidance.
- [How to Approach the Topic of a Prenuptial Agreement with Your Partner](https://wardfamilylawchicago.com/how-to-approach-the-topic-of-a-prenuptial-agreement-with-your-partner/): Learn how to discuss prenuptial agreements thoughtfully with your partner. Get guidance from a trusted Chicago prenuptial agreement lawyer at WARD FAMILY LAW, LLC.
- [Is a Pension Considered Marital Property in Illinois?](https://wardfamilylawchicago.com/is-a-pension-considered-marital-property-in-illinois/): Learn how pensions are divided in Illinois divorces. WARD FAMILY LAW, LLC, your trusted Chicago divorce attorneys, can guide you through pension valuation and distribution. Schedule a consultation today.
- [What Happens When One Parent is Unfit? Allocating Responsibilities in Difficult Situations](https://wardfamilylawchicago.com/what-happens-when-one-parent-is-unfit-allocating-responsibilities-in-difficult-situations/): Navigate your complex parental responsibility case with confidence. WARD FAMILY LAW, LLC, your trusted Chicago parental responsibilities attorney, advocates for your child’s best interests.
- [Why You Need an Experienced Divorce Attorney for Complex Property Division](https://wardfamilylawchicago.com/why-you-need-an-experienced-divorce-attorney-for-complex-property-division/): The experienced Chicago complex property division lawyers at WARD FAMILY LAW, LLC, help navigate divorces with precision. Protect your financial future—contact us today.
- [How to Handle Missed Parenting Time](https://wardfamilylawchicago.com/how-to-handle-missed-parenting-time/): Missed parenting time can be challenging, but solutions are possible. Learn how to protect your parental rights and prioritize your child’s well-being with guidance from WARD FAMILY LAW, LLC.
- [What Happens If Someone Denies Paternity?](https://wardfamilylawchicago.com/what-happens-if-someone-denies-paternity/): WARD FAMILY LAW, LLC provides essential insights into navigating paternity cases under Illinois law. Contact our team for legal representation and guidance through every step of the process.
- [What to Do When Your Co-Parent Fails to Follow the Parenting Plan](https://wardfamilylawchicago.com/what-to-do-when-your-co-parent-fails-to-follow-the-parenting-plan/): Learn how Illinois law addresses parenting plan violations and how WARD FAMILY LAW, LLC can help protect your child's well-being and uphold your legal rights.
- [How to Handle Divorce When Your Spouse Doesn't Want One](https://wardfamilylawchicago.com/how-to-handle-divorce-when-your-spouse-doesnt-want-one/): Learn how to handle a reluctant spouse during divorce with practical tips on legal options, communication strategies, and emotional support for a smoother process. Contact WARD FAMILY LAW, LLC for guidance and support throughout the process.
- [What are the Pros and Cons of Divorce Litigation?](https://wardfamilylawchicago.com/what-are-the-pros-and-cons-of-divorce-litigation/): Learn about divorce litigation and alternative dispute resolution methods. Contact WARD FAMILY LAW, LLC for guidance in making the best choice for your unique situation.
- [Will I Have to Go to Court for an Uncontested Divorce?](https://wardfamilylawchicago.com/will-i-have-to-go-to-court-for-an-uncontested-divorce/): Navigate the uncontested divorce process with confidence. Learn key steps, benefits, and how WARD FAMILY LAW, LLC provides compassionate support tailored to your needs.
- [Can I Choose Where to File for Divorce in Illinois?](https://wardfamilylawchicago.com/can-i-choose-where-to-file-for-divorce-in-illinois/): Get clear on where to file for divorce in Illinois with insights on residency requirements, venue importance, and legal guidelines. Find out how the Chicago divorce lawyers at WARD FAMILY LAW, LLC, can support you through the process.
- [Can a Father be Granted Full Custody in Illinois?](https://wardfamilylawchicago.com/can-a-father-be-granted-full-custody-in-illinois/): Learn how fathers in Illinois can be granted full custody. Contact an experienced Illinois family lawyer at WARD FAMILY LAW, LLC, for guidance on these complex legal issues.
- [How Can I Protect My Finances During a Divorce?](https://wardfamilylawchicago.com/how-can-i-protect-my-finances-during-a-divorce/): A divorce can create financial turmoil for those involved. Knowing how to protect yourself is key to getting a fresh start, and a Chicago divorce lawyer can help.
- [What Cannot Be Included in a Prenuptial Agreement?](https://wardfamilylawchicago.com/what-cannot-be-included-in-a-prenuptial-agreement/): WARD FAMILY LAW, LLC addresses the limitations and legal nuances of prenuptial agreements under Illinois law. Call our Chicago divorce attorney for help.
- [Do I Need a Lawyer for an Uncontested Divorce?](https://wardfamilylawchicago.com/do-i-need-a-lawyer-for-an-uncontested-divorce/): WARD FAMILY LAW, LLC explains the benefits of uncontested divorce and why legal guidance is still vital. Call our Chicago uncontested divorce attorney.
- [Can a Mother Refuse a Paternity Test in Illinois?](https://wardfamilylawchicago.com/can-a-mother-refuse-a-paternity-test-in-illinois/): Learn about paternity testing laws in Illinois with WARD FAMILY LAW, LLC. Contact our Chicago family attorneys for experienced representation.
- [What Should I Do if My Ex Violates Our Allocation Judgment?](https://wardfamilylawchicago.com/what-should-i-do-if-my-ex-violates-our-allocation-judgment/): Learn how to address child custody violations with practical steps and legal guidance from our Chicago divorce lawyer.
- [The "Married Single Mom": Navigating Parenthood Alone](https://wardfamilylawchicago.com/the-married-single-mom-navigating-parenthood-alone/): Many women feel like "married single moms," carrying the weight of parenting and household duties while their spouse is emotionally or physically unavailable. Contact a Chicago divorce lawyer for support.
- [Can Grandparents Seek Custody?](https://wardfamilylawchicago.com/can-grandparents-seek-custody/): WARD FAMILY LAW, LLC examines the legal considerations for grandparents seeking custody of their grandchildren in Illinois. For more specific guidance, consult our experienced Chicago family law attorney.
- [Does Child Support End When a Child Turns 18 in Illinois?](https://wardfamilylawchicago.com/does-child-support-end-when-a-child-turns-18-in-illinois/): Child support in Illinois may extend beyond age 18 for high school, college, or special needs. Consult a Chicago divorce attorney for guidance.
- [Dissipation of Marital Assets or Just Bad Spending Habits?](https://wardfamilylawchicago.com/dissipation-of-marital-assets-or-just-bad-spending-habits/): WARD FAMILY LAW, LLC explores the distinction between dissipation and bad spending habits during divorce proceedings. Our Chicago divorce lawyers can help you manage these complex legal matters.
- [Enforcing a Divorce Decree: What You Need to Know](https://wardfamilylawchicago.com/enforcing-a-divorce-decree-what-you-need-to-know/): Ensuring compliance with a divorce decree is essential for protecting your rights and avoiding financial hardships. Learn how our Chicago divorce attorney can assist you.
- [The Difference Between Moving and Relocating for Divorced Parents in Illinois](https://wardfamilylawchicago.com/the-difference-between-moving-and-relocating-for-divorced-parents-in-illinois/): Learn the legal distinctions between moving and relocating with a child post-divorce. Contact our Chicago divorce lawyers for advice and representation.
- [The Link Between Perimenopause and Divorce Rates: Timing and Impact](https://wardfamilylawchicago.com/the-link-between-perimenopause-and-divorce-rates-timing-and-impact/): Explore the link between perimenopause and divorce with the knowledgeable Chicago divorce attorneys at WARD FAMILY LAW, LLC.
- [The Confusing Concept of Maintaining the Status Quo during a Chicago Divorce Case](https://wardfamilylawchicago.com/the-confusing-concept-of-maintaining-the-status-quo-during-a-chicago-divorce-case/): In a Chicago divorce, maintaining the financial status quo is meant to prevent unfair advantages. For guidance, contact a Chicago divorce lawyer at WARD FAMILY LAW, LLC.
- [How Texts, Emails, or Messages to Your Ex Can Impact Your Divorce](https://wardfamilylawchicago.com/how-texts-emails-or-messages-to-your-ex-can-impact-your-divorce/): Understand how electronic communications can affect your divorce case, and learn strategies to mitigate risks with WARD FAMILY LAW, LLC. Call our Chicago divorce lawyers today.
- [How to Handle a High-Conflict Divorce](https://wardfamilylawchicago.com/how-to-handle-a-high-conflict-divorce/): A high-conflict divorce can be overwhelming. Discover effective strategies for resolving issues with the guidance of our skilled Chicago divorce attorney.
- [Legal Separation vs. Divorce](https://wardfamilylawchicago.com/legal-separation-vs-divorce/): Explore the key differences between legal separation and divorce with insights from WARD FAMILY LAW, LLC. Contact our Chicago divorce attorneys for professional guidance.