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Elizabeth Marie Vonau

Family Attorney at Crystal Lake, IL

4.2   24 reviews

also known as Beth Vonau

About Elizabeth

Learn Elizabeth’s areas of practice.

5
Practice areas
  1. Family
    35%
    Family law practice including divorce, civil union dissolution, child support, allocation of parental responsibility (child custody and visitation), orders of protection, and child support enforcement.

    19 years

  2. Mediation
    20%
    Assist parties going through divorce or parenting disputes to find the best resolution for their family situation. Approved mediator for family law cases in McHenry County.

    8 years

  3. Guardianship
    15%
    Act as guardian for minors where appointed by the Court in family law cases. Approved GAL for family law cases in McHenry County.

    7 years

  4. Criminal defense
    10%
    Criminal Defense including Felony Charges, Violent Crime, Theft, Fraud, Homicide, Robbery, Gun Charges, Drug Offenses, Domestic Battery, DUI, Driving Suspended, Misdemeanors, and Traffic.

    19 years

  5. Juvenile law
    10%
    Dedicated to working with young people to help them make better choices and find the support that they need to continue to make better choices after court proceedings have concluded.

    10 years

  6. Residential real estate
    10%
    Buy and sell for residential real estate. Services available in English and Spanish.

    19 years

I have practiced law in McHenry County for about 20 years. I grew up in the community and still make it my home today.  I am a Partner in KRV Legal, Inc. which means I and my 2 business partners own the company.  I am proud to live and work in this community and to co-own a small business that is really focused on providing excellent legal representation to our clients and a family like working environment for our staff.  We are aggressive trial lawyers who are willing to spend the time to get to know our clients and to understand each unique case as each client is his or her own person and comes to us with his or her own unique circumstances. 

Licensed for 21 years
State IL
Status Active and Authorized to Practice Law
Acquired 2001
Updated 04/01/2023

We have not found any instances of professional misconduct for this lawyer.

Contact Elizabeth

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Elizabeth Marie Vonau
125 South Virginia Street
Crystal Lake, IL, 60014

Reviews

4.2 / 5.0
  24 customer reviews
Posted by anonymous | December 30, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Fights for you
Ms. Vonau has been highly recommended and I can see why. She is smart and quick on her feet. She was able to hear things during the case and quickly find ways to discredit testimony. She is a fighter and you want her on your side.
Posted by Laurie Ruesch | November 16, 2015
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Rating
Elizabeth is the best , and only lawyer I've ever had. She helped me out when no one else would. I would give her a 15 out of 10!!! She is the best!!!!
Posted by Danny | November 17, 2014
Love this attorney!
Elizabeth has handled numerous cases for me. Every case she handled it was clear what should be done, how it was going to be done, what the best outcome in my cases would be and how she would assist me in attaining that outcome. In a world where money is tight and you don't know who to trust, I put my money and trust on Elizabeth.
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Posted by anonymous | August 20, 2014
Best lawyer I have ever had
Elizabeth was one of the most knowledgeable lawyers I have ever worked with. She was always on time she never left me feeling like I didn't know what was going on with my case . She always returned my phone calls when I had questions . Her assistants were always very helpful and knowledgable . If I ever needed a lawyer again for this type of situation I would definitely use her services.
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Posted by Billy | August 19, 2014
Honest
Very understanding and supportive. Gave her honest opinion how the case would be. Fought till the end for the positive out look of our case.
Posted by anonymous | August 19, 2014
Ms. Vonau is an exceptional professional
Ms. Vonau was extremely professional in her dealings with all parties involved in a real estate transaction. The transaction was more complicated and extended than most closings and Ms. Vonau kept all involved informed and on task. When last minute issues threatened the completion of the closing, Ms. Vonau worked calmly yet firmly to resolve the issue.
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Posted by anonymous | January 21, 2014
Very competent and went the extra mile to handle my case
I could not be happier with choosing Elizabeth to represent me in my recent legal case. She was extremely competent, explaining to me the ins and outs of the procedure and letter of the law, offering many options and potential outcomes to help me strategize my case. After achieving favorable results with the Judge, she also followed up as the court tried to make me jump through extra steps, handling every one of them diligently for me. I would highly recommend letting Elizabeth Vonau represent you in your legal case as her services are top notch and far beyond what the normal lawyer will provide.
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Posted by Sandy | December 3, 2013
Highly Recommend!
Elizabeth Vonau works hard and is very, very good at what she does. She is easy to work with, she listens and makes you feel at ease when you are concerned about things. You really feel like she cares because she does. There is not one negative thing that can be said. She is awesome and I would HIGHLY recommend her.
Posted by anonymous | November 17, 2013
Fair, honest and hard working!
Beth helped me purchase my first property. She went above and beyond to help me. She was extremely professional, trustworthy and easy to work for a first time buyer. I would recommend her to anyone.
Posted by anonymous | November 13, 2013
wonderful lawyer
Very kind and cares about you and the situation. Helped me get through my divorce with ease, and was wonderfully supportive. They always kept me up to date on everything as well.
Posted by anonymous | October 24, 2013
Contract
Elizabeth was a great lawyer for me. She helped me with a housing contract the whole way to the closing date. At the closing she explained everything that I was signing for to an extent that was beyond expectations as that time was very nerve wracking for me being a first time homebuyer.
Posted by Mark | October 23, 2013
Excellent attorney - one of my first calls anytime I have a legal issue.
Beth is extremely professional, knowledgable and responsive. She's helped me out on a quite a few personal legal isssues, she's extremely trustworthy, and an excellent communicator. I would (and plan to) hire her again the next time I need legal advice.
Posted by Nicole | October 23, 2013
Elizabeth is an awesome attorney!!!!
Elizabeth Vonau is the bomb!!!!! if me or anyone in my family ever needs representation i would most def refer them to her, she keeps it real and she does not just tell you what you want to hear she gives you the truth at all times. if you are looking for an awesome attorney that lets you know she is working for you and not against you Elizabeth is the one to contact!!!!!!!!!!! thanks Elizabeth for everything you done for me i am so fortunate that i got hooked up with you you are truly AWESOME
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Posted by anonymous | October 22, 2013
Ecellent Representation
Elizabeth represented me twice, one in a child custody case and once regarding back child support. She always kept me informed as the process moved forward. She was tireless in her work and responsive to all my inquiries.
Posted by GC | October 21, 2013
Trusted Advisor, Tireless Advocate
Elizabeth has represented me and several of my family members and friends in a variety of circumstances. She has a knack for translating complicated legal jargon into easily understandable terms. She helps you to understand your position, your alternatives, and the associated pro's and con's of your decisions. She is a bulldog in pursuing her clients' interests, yet warm and engaging in managing client relationships. Elizabeth is your friend, your confidant, your advisor, and your advocate. She has consistently earned my trust.
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Posted by anonymous | October 20, 2013
Highly Recommended
When working with an attorney, you are most likely working in unfamiliar territory and with uncertainty. This was not the case with Elizabeth. Her expertise and communication style allowed me to remain at ease while staying informed. Her professionalism is unmatched and dedication to her client is top-notch. She is knowledgeable, confident, details and trustworthy. I would recommend Elizabeth to anyone looking for an attorney.
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Posted by Susan D. | October 20, 2013
Ms Vonau is exceptional; very good with details and communication with teens/young adults
Ms Vonau helped us with two very different situations involving our teenage/young adult children. One related to a driving incident the other to untrue allegations from a person who was mentally ill. She was professional, offered details and updates, provided exceptional guidance, and always returned calls personally, even when we were not under contract with her. Our adult children even recommended Ms Vonau to their friends re other matters. One does not think that they need a lawyer, but any time a person is charged with a potential crime, they should consider hiring one - especially Ms Vonau or her firm. She is very good with young people and complex matters, and I heartily recommend her.
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Posted by Ron | October 17, 2013
A knowledgeable, trustworthy attorney when you need one!
Elizabeth Vonau is very unusual in that it is soon apparent upon meeting her that she clearly has the best interests of us, the client, foremost in her mind as she formulates a legal strategy to resolve the legal issue we had. Thank you! Ron
Posted by anonymous | August 12, 2009
She's the one you want on your side
Beth fights for her client as though she were fighting for herself. She puts her heart and soul into every case. Beth has represented me on several occasions and she leaves no stone unturned as far as pursuing every possible opportunity to build a solid, strong case. She is tenacious, determined, and extremely bright and capable. She's the one you want on your side.
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Posted by anonymous | July 28, 2016
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
I wouldn't t use her again. Lots of skill but no spirit.
I have been stalked by the Lake County Police. Long story short: I made tons of police reports and they did nothing. I was falsely arrested in Sept. 2011. The office wanted me to plead. I wouldn't. It took six months to get the case dropped due to my stubborness. She would not counter sue for false arrest, excessive force, and libel. Now, I have lost my house and part of my eyesight because of the arrest. I can't do anything about it because she didn't fight when she was suppose to. She may have a lot of skill, but she is too much of a coward to change "things" wrong with the system.
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Response from Elizabeth Vonau November 30, 2016
I do not now, nor have I ever filed suit for false arrest, excessive force, etc. This is not the area of law I work in. When asked I always refer clients to other attorneys who do practice in these areas. If the felony charges were all dropped after 6 months - sounds like I fought plenty hard and got fantastic results. I wish you the best in your future and hope that you do reach out to an attorney who does file 1983 claims and pursue protection of your rights to the fullest.
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Cost

Rates
  • Free Consultation 60 minutes
  • Retainer Always
Payment methods
Cash, Check, Credit Card

Resume

AVVO RATING 10.0 (Superb)

Work Experience

  • Partner
  • KRV Legal, Inc.
  • 2015 - Present
  • Partner
  • Kililis, Ridings & Vonau, P.C.
  • 2008 - 2015
  • Associate Attorney
  • George Kililis & Associatess, P.C.
  • 2006 - 2007
  • Owner
  • Law Offices of Elizabeth Vonau
  • 2004 - 2005
  • Assistant State's Attorney
  • McHenry County State's Attorney Office
  • 2002 - 2004
View all work experience

Education

  • DePaul University College of Law
  • JD - Juris Doctor
  • 2001
  • Northern Illinois University
  • BA - Bachelor of Arts
  • 1998

Associations

  • McHenry County Bar Association Board of Governors
  • Chair for Family Law ADR
  • 2019 - Present
  • 22nd Judicial Circuit Mediation Advisory Council
  • Attorney Mediator Member
  • 2019 - Present
  • 22nd Judicial Circuit Family Violence Coordinating Committee
  • Member
  • 2018 - Present
  • Girls on the Run NW Illinois
  • Coach
  • 2018 - Present
  • McHenry County Bar Association
  • Member
  • 2016 - Present
  • Crystal Lake Chamber of Commerce
  • Member
  • 2016 - Present
  • McHenry County Substance Abuse Coalition
  • Member
  • 2016 - Present
  • Illinois State Bar Association
  • Member
  • 2001 - Present
  • Lake County Opioid Initiative
  • Member
  • 2016 - 2016
  • National Trial Lawyers Association Top 100
  • Memeber
  • 2015 - 2017
  • Lake County Bar Association
  • Member
  • 2008 - 2017
  • Crystal Lake Jaycees
  • Member
  • 2005 - 2008
  • CASA McHenry County
  • Board Member
  • 2005 - 2006
  • Turning Point
  • Board Member
  • 2005 - 2006
  • 19th Judicial Circuit Domestic Violence Advisory Committee
  • Member
  • 2003 - 2006
  • McHenry County Domestic Violence Advisory Committee
  • Member
  • 2003 - 2006
View all associations

Languages Spoken

  • English
  • Spanish

Honors and Awards

  • Peace and Justice Award 2017
  • Turning Point
  • 2017
  • Top 100 Trial Lawyers
  • National Trial Lawyers
  • 2016
  • "10 Best" DUI Attorneys for Illinois
  • American Institute of DUI/DWI Attorneys
  • 2015
  • Top Contributor
  • AVVO
  • 2015
  • Top Ten Law Firms
  • American Institute of DUI Attorneys
  • 2015
  • Top 100 Trial Lawyers
  • National Trial Lawyers
  • 2015
  • Best in Business
  • Small Business Commuity Assocation
  • 2015
  • Top Contributor
  • AVVO
  • 2014
  • Client's Choice Award
  • AVVO
  • 2014
  • McHenry County's Best Under 40
  • Shaw Media and McHenry County Business Journal
  • 2013
  • Featured Attorney
  • AVVO
  • 2013
  • Client's Choice Award
  • AVVO
  • 2013
  • Top Contributor
  • AVVO
  • 2013
View all awards

Publications

  • Co-authored a reference book on how to obtain and maintain tax exempt status in each of the fifty states. This book was published through the Civic Federation of Chicago.
  • A Tax Survey
  • 2000

Speaking Engagements

  • Law Day McHenry County
  • Lawyer in the Classroom (bi-lingual classroom)
  • 2019
  • CASA Light of Hope Breakfast
  • Co-Master of Ceremony
  • 2019
  • CASA Light of Hope Breakfast
  • Co-Master of Ceremony
  • 2018
  • Light of Hope Breakfast
  • Co-Master of Ceremony
  • 2017
  • Light of Hope Breakfast
  • Co-Master of Ceremony
  • 2016
  • Light of Hope Breakfast
  • Speaker: They are all OUR children.
  • 2014
  • Quarterly Training for police officers and other service providers
  • Family Violence Topics including awareness, detection, prevention, intervention, arrest procedures and prosecutorial procedures.
  • 2004
  • Quarterly Training for police officers and other service providers
  • Family Violence Topics including awareness, detection, prevention, intervention, arrest procedures and prosecutorial procedures.
  • 2003
View all speaking engagements

Attorney endorsements

Received (26)
Given (36)
Endorse Elizabeth
Family Attorney | May 17
Relationship: Worked for lawyer
"Elizabeth is a fierce advocate who truly cares about each and every client. She has a true passion for law and for helping others and this attitude is always present in her work. I highly endorse this lawyer."
Criminal defense Attorney | Nov 13
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter
"Elizabeth is very skilled and respected attorney with a direct and honest manner."
Criminal defense Attorney | Sep 10
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I highly endorse Ms. Vonau. I have worked closely with Ms. Vonau since 2007. She is an excellent reputable criminal defense attorney that always obtains favorable results for her clients. She goes above and beyond to ensure her clients are content with the outcome of their cases."
Speeding and traffic ticket Attorney | Sep 10
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Ms. Vonau does wonderful work here on Avvo. She uses her extensive knowledge to answer countless questions **for free** and not once have I seen her ask for anything in return. She one of the good ones and I highly recommend her services."
Criminal defense Attorney | Aug 23
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I highly endorse Mrs. Vonau. Truly exceptional and caring attorney who produces great results in representing clients! I want all people to contact her for help."
DUI and DWI Attorney | Aug 04
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Criminal defense Attorney | Feb 16
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I have known Elizabeth for several years as she is attorney that handles criminal cases in many of the same courthouses as I do. She is a highly skilled and effective advocate for her clients. I endorse this lawyer."
Criminal defense Attorney | Nov 23
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. Elizabeth provides excellent and detailed responses to legal inquiries, fully advising individuals of the best way to proceed with their case."
Criminal defense Attorney | Nov 19
Relationship: Other
"Mr. Elizabeth's advice is professional and well-reasoned"
Criminal defense Attorney | Oct 31
Relationship: Co-worker
"I endorse this lawyer."
Family Attorney | Jul 08
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. Elizabeth is a very intelligent and hard working attorney."
Family Attorney | Jun 27
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. She is caring and very intelligent."
Unknown Attorney | Jan 10
Relationship: Co-worker
"I endorse this lawyer. I've worked with Beth for more than six years now, and know she is one of the most hard-working and conscientious attorneys around. Beth genuinely cares about our clients, and is willing to go to battle any day to protect them. But she is also a skilled negotiator, and doesn't pick fights when it doesn't help the client. In short, she is exceptionally capable, while still expressing the "human side" to her legal work, endearing herself to her clients and other professionals."
Unknown Attorney | Dec 20
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Criminal defense Attorney | Dec 10
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Attorney Vonau's strong background is one of the many reasons that I endorse her. Her commitment and clear responses to AVVO.com inquiries is a testament to her client focused practice."
DUI and DWI Attorney | Dec 06
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I have had the opportunity to read Ms. Vonau's answers to questions about Illinois law on AVVO, and she always demonstrates excellent legal knowledge while providing sound advice. She has developed a reputation as a person who fights for her client's rights in the courtroom. I gladly endorse her."
Criminal defense Attorney | Dec 06
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Family Attorney | Nov 29
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse Elizabeth Marie Vonau as a dedicated, knowledgeable and skilled practitioner who cares for her client. Counsel Vonau continues to promote the humanitarian values of DePaul University helping the public and caring for the reasonable and just resolution of the legal matters."
Family Attorney | Nov 27
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. Ms. Vonau is a well respected, generous contributor on Avvo. I would recommend her to anyone needing an experienced advocate."
Unknown Attorney | Nov 25
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. My firm has referred various matters to Elizabeth over the years, and her work is always excellent."
View more endorsements
Divorce and separation
Criminal defense
Criminal defense
Criminal defense
Criminal defense
Criminal defense
Criminal defense
DUI and DWI
Divorce and separation
Criminal defense
Criminal defense
DUI and DWI