At Chicago Advocate Legal (CAL), we provide compassionate, child-focused legal advocacy in high-conflict family law cases. Our attorneys are appointed or retained to serve as Guardians ad Litem (GALs) or Child Representatives, ensuring that children's needs and best interests remain at the center of every decision.
Custody / Allocation of Parental Responsibilities
Parenting Time / Visitation Disputes
High-conflict divorce or separation
Allegations of abuse or neglect
Substance use or mental health concerns involving a parent
Domestic violence and orders of protection
Concerns about a child’s safety or well-being
Post-decree modifications (changes to custody or parenting time)
We accept both court appointments and private referrals, depending on the circumstances.
We believe that children deserve to be heard and protected, but never burdened.
Our attorneys:
Meet with children in age-appropriate, child-friendly ways
Listen to children’s concerns and fears without pressuring them to choose sides
Provide continuity during a chaotic legal process
Communicate openly with both parents and attorneys
Respect cultural, emotional, and developmental differences
Our goal is to make sure every child involved in a case feels seen, safe, and supported.
At CAL, we recognize that family court cases often involve high stress, past trauma, and
difficult transitions.
Many children we serve have experienced:
Exposure to conflict, violence, or instability
Mental health challenges
Housing or school disruptions
Loss or separation from caregivers
Our attorneys are trained in trauma-informed practices, which means:
We approach every family with empathy, not judgment
We consider the emotional and psychological impact of legal decisions
We avoid re-traumatization through thoughtful communication and engagement
We collaborate with therapists, schools, and support networks when appropriate
We believe healing and stability are possible when families are treated with dignity, children are given a voice, and decisions are made with care.
Contact Us
Email me: cneal@chicagoadvocatelegal.com
Call: (312) 801-5918
*(it is better to make an appointment or send an email)
Office Address: 211 W. Wacker Dr. Suite 200b Chicago, IL 60606
*(please do not come to the office without an appointment)