Nancy Chausow Shafer

Ms. Nancy was extremely helpful from beginning to end. I was originally blessed to have Ms. Nancy through the Pro Bono program due my inability to pay for the fees and desperate need of help while serving in the military. I was experiencing an excessive amounts of stress and not only did she resolve ...my child custody issue but she out of the kindness of her heart assisted me in my entire divorce process including child support. I never felt pressured or lied to during this process. Ms. Nancy was clear and ALWAYS assisted me in making the best decisions for not only me but for my child. There were several times where I was confused and almost made poor decisions but Ms. Nancy stepped in and not only gave her advice as a lawyer but also as a wise woman. Her staff was extremely helpful and I was always made aware of my options and the next steps; especially with Ms. Taryn. I felt as if they had my best interest. I didn't feel the need to question their motives nor argue their advice. There were many times when I needed things explained over and over again and I was always provided with the information. There was something about Ms. Nancy's calmness that made me feel comfortable. I wont get into personal details but Ms. Nancy provided me with assistance that she did not have to and I am forever thankful! I honestly did not see my issue getting resolved without her. The other parties lawyer was often rude and aggressive but Ms. Nancy ALWAYS won the battle. I highly recommend her and I KNOW if I have any future issues with my previous case she will be the FIRST one I call. It's not everyday where you will find a lawyer who will go above and beyond to help you out the kindness of her heart. She saw first hand how difficult something was for me and how I was being treated and took it upon herself to support me and not leave me hanging. No one understands how thankful I am and how many tears of joy I've cried!

Nancy consistently was a guiding light through an extremely difficult divorce situation. She demonstrated a fount of knowledge as we traversed through different phases. She was by my side as we dealt with 2 different state locations, and then attempted mediation which my former spouse was not inter...ested in, and then finally, the actual divorce in 1 state, Illinois. She is well-acquainted with the military laws and provisions. Additionally, she knows many of the military lawyers across the U.S. to obtain current, updated information or support. She knew how to write up the decree in the appropriate military language with an eye to protecting me. She made sure I received my ½ portion of the pension, but that also received the money that was stolen from me by my former spouse. She was fair to my former spouse, and spoke with respect to my former spouse, the other lawyers, the judge, and me. Being very thorough, she also encouraged my communicating with another military lawyer to make sure the military paperwork was formulated and put through to DFAS and Personnel without any snafus. The 2nd lawyer told me that Nancy had done very well by me in the results of the divorce and decree write up. I sincerely appreciate all the guidance that Nancy gave to me, and all she did for me.

While I'm assuming no divorce is ever easy, especially emotionally, I have to say that Nancy Chausow Shafer made the "process" for me much less painful! She was upfront and fair about what my options were, helped manage my expectations, didn't sugar-coat anything, yet made sure I knew that she'd do... everything in her power to advocate fairly for me. And she did! I got everything I was hoping for (and more) and was able to maintain a respectful relationship with my ex. While I would imagine no divorce is "cheap", her fees were reasonable and I did not feel "nickel and dimed" to death. All billing was clearly detailed and seemed fair. Especially after hearing what some other lawyers charge. Many years later, I still recommend Nancy to friends going through a divorce and/or mediation.