Licensed for 19 years

State IL

Acquired 2004

Status
Active and Authorized to Practice Law No misconduct found

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

Michael S. Strauss

Family Attorney at Libertyville, IL

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GREAT WORK!

I found Michael and his law firm on Google. Im so glad i contacted him. I needed help with my child support case, I was extremely overwhelmed and didn't know what to do because of my ex and his manipulative ways. I told Michael about my situation and he didn't hesitate to help me out. He and his staff were patient helpful and very kind. They answered all my questions and eased my mind so much. Im so happy with how my case was handled and the outcome. I'm definitely going to contact him again if i ever need legal help. He's the man!

Excellent experience

About Michael

Learn Michael’s areas of practice.

Practice areas

Divorce and separation

23%

At our Illinois family law firm, we understand the issues that can complicate your divorce, and we know how to resolve them. From handling issues involving the nature of your assets to matters regarding child custody disputes, you can rely on us.
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Family

23%

Our Libertyville law firm handles routine and complex, divorce and property division matters. We also assist family members in juvenile court matters and domestic violence issues. To discuss your legal concerns regarding a family matter, please call.
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Child custody

22%

In awarding custody, Illinois courts are out to protect the best interest of a child. While in the past the “tender years presumption” favored mothers in custody determinations, equal protection concerns have afforded fathers equal consideration.
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Child support

22%

In the state of Illinois, child support is calculated according to the new child support formula. Schlesinger & Strauss will fully explain how the new child support is calculated and how the new child support law will affect your situation.
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Adoption

10%

There are many issues that can arise regarding the rights of grandparents toward their grandchildren. At Schlesinger & Strauss, LLC, we can answer your difficult questions regarding whether or not a grandparent has rights to visitation and more.
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Mr. Strauss joined the Law Office of Gary L. Schlesinger in March, 2006, and he became a partner on September 1, 2010, when Schlesinger & Strauss, LLC, was formed. Michael has handled family law cases in seven counties in the state of Illinois. Michael also serves as a mediator and is frequently appointed to represent children as well.

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Strauss & Hoyt, LLC.

1512 Artaius Parkway

Suite 300

Libertyville, IL, 60048

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Reviews

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4.5 / 5.0

42 customer reviews

5 Star

86%

4 Star

3 Star

2 Star

1 Star

12%

Posted by Lenita | December 13, 2020

GREAT WORK!

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Posted by Karilee | August 23, 2020

Excellent experience

Michael was recommended to me by a friend who is a retired Judge that worked in family law for 30 years. I trusted her recommendation and I’m very glad I did. Michael and is staff were sharp, efficient and kind. My case was handled so well, I could not have been happier with the outcome. And I was not over charged. Highly recommended.

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Posted by Tracy | August 9, 2020

Vigilant, No-Nonsense Representation

Gary, Michael, & DeAnna, Due to the unexpected death of my beloved mother and running two Covid-19 units I wanted to express a belated Thank you that’s long overdue. Each of you deserve a “shout out” and much gratitude in your roles and participation while working on my case over the years. Your team effort approach is vigilant, knowledgeable and offers no-nonsense representation. Not only is this concept refreshing but your practice offers a full menu of legal services that craft a legal strategy response to maximize personal attention to each client’s unique needs and circumstances. The quality of your services is reflective in your quality outcomes. You set the bar high and become the benchmark of Lake County as evidenced by your community driven service, reputation, and return clientele. To each of you……thank you for protecting my biggest assets…my children. Words can’t express how truly grateful I am. I appreciate each of you and time spent while working on my case.

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Posted by Sharis | June 11, 2020

Great Work

I highly recommend this law firm. They helped me with my child custody case. They helped me get the best outcome for my child. Michael Strauss was my lawyer. He stayed on top of everything and communicated with me effectively. He was always available and willing to answer any questions I had. The firm bills pretty fairly and they are very helpful in working with you to make payments. Thank you Schlesinger & Strauss.

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Posted by Roy | October 3, 2019

Stop searching, no one better than Michael and his partner.

Michael is passionate at what he does, is extremely thorough, pays attention to all the details, follows up on everything and you know that you have the best advocate in your corner. Michael helped my daughter in an extremely difficult divorce that ended up being assigned to courts in Arizona, he has continued to follow up though he is no longer involved in the case. Going above and beyond is the norm for Michael as well as his staff. Trying to find a good lawyer is difficult at best because most individuals have never had the need before. Trying to find a good lawyer under stressful circumstances and in a limited time frame is nearly impossible. Stop searching and contact Michael. You will be glad you did.

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Posted by Rasa | August 7, 2019

5 stars!

I would like to thank Michael and his staff for helping me in my legal matter. I found Michael to be experienced, responsive, knowledgable and honest.The communication was always prompt and to the point. I felt like Michael truly cared and wanted the matter resolved as much as I did. Thank you once again on doing a great job. I would highly recommend Michael to anyone seeking legal representation that is fair, honest and affordable!

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Posted by Alex | July 30, 2019

The BEST, hands down!

Hiring Michael and his team was the best decision I've ever made. I can't thank him and Deanna enough for all of the hard work they put into my case. They are easy to get a hold of and respond to questions and concerns very quickly. If you want results, these guys are the ones to have on your side. Thank you again for everything!

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Posted by anonymous | July 8, 2019

Excellent

Started working on my case before I walked out the door! Had/have a complicated situation and got us into court the following day after our consultation. He was in the court room before court started spoke with me before and afterwards. WE WON IN COURT! He returns my phone calls immediately and emails me back immediately. He is efficient caring understanding and fair! Thank you for all your help

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Posted by anonymous | June 19, 2019

Empathetic and Straightforward

Michael was very empathetic to my situation and clear/straightforward with his communications. He always responded promptly and answered all of my questions. He is very detail oriented and ran me through every possible outcome with complete honesty. His rates were very fair. I would highly recommend him.

Posted by Deanna | June 8, 2019

Best around

I had Mike as my attorney. He was AMAZING. My case was pretty easy compared to what most people have to deal with. But he was totally on my side. Wanted everything for me that I should get. He answered any questions I had. He was so helpful and explained everything. Everyone that I spoke with in the office was super nice as well. I would highly reccomend Mike and his team. I know i will continue to use him in the future.

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Posted by Gayle | June 3, 2019

Outstanding Lawyer! Excellent service!

I highly recommend Mr. Michael Strauss! I would not trust and hire any other lawyer but him. He is very knowledgeable and caring.He and his staff were very helpful and responsive in my concerns and questions, he replies to emails within minutes. He helped me get through a very difficult time, negotiated on my behalf and was tough and aggressive when needed. He cares about his clients and their best interests. He is THE lawyer that you would want and need to represent you!

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Posted by Frances | December 6, 2018

Kind & compassionate

Michael was very kind, patient, compassionate, and knowledgeable, with a friendly team/staff working alongside him. I had Michael for my divorce, from my abusive husband, who abandoned me & our daughter. Michael was very patient and thorough in explaining everything that was going to happen, as well as all my options, at a time when I felt frustrated, hopeless, and lost. Schlesinger & Strauss is a law firm with heart & passion for what they do. I highly recommend them.

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Posted by Daphne | October 3, 2018

Competent, compassionate, skilled, trustworthy, and excellent office staff.

We hired Michael Strauss to help us with documents for an amicable divorce. Complications arose and he represented me solely. I trusted him with the thorough legal advice he offered. I never get that he would unnecessarily escalate my situation, which was a huge concern based on stories I have heard. He walkways encouraged me to be fair and balanced while also informing me of what I was legally entitled too. He was very prompt with communication around any questions or concerns I had with my case. He went above and beyond dealing with a tight deadline. He also helped to secure a fantastic mediator to help our process. I have recommended him to several friends and they have also had great experiences with him.

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Posted by Beth | September 16, 2018

I highly recommend Michael Strauss

Mike helped me on two separate occasions with post divorce issues. He is knowledgeable, quick to respond, kept me updated on my case, and was able to achieve the result I was hoping for. The office staff was also responsive and easy to work with. I definitely made the right choice in hiring Michael Strauss as my attorney.

Posted by Michelle | June 7, 2018

Great Attorney

I highly recommend Michael and his team. I hired him part-way through my divorce process due to dissatisfaction with my first attorney. Michael took my case and got it on track. He spent time learning my case and learning the complexity of what we were dealing with. I felt that he understood how to deal with a high conflict case and he took the time to listen, with compassion and understanding. He gave great advice but also listened to what was important to me. If you're in need of legal representation I would highly recommend Michael Strauss.

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Posted by Brenda | April 29, 2018

Best attorney ever!

Michael really helped me when I needed it most. He never overcharged me and did my divorce at a very cost effective rate. My ex husband and I drew up our divorce agreement and Michael put it into legal terms and advised me on the best way to go. He's amazing. If you want an attorney who really cares about you and your best interests, he's the man to hire!

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Posted by Robert | April 25, 2018

Amazing job

Michael was an amazing lawyer and very up to date with the laws which helped me so much. He never gave up on me in my ugly divorce. He responded to emails on weekends and nights. He explained the whole procedure to me step by step. My ex tried to file many restraining orders on me to take my kids away and he helped me get them back every time. He saw right through all of Her lies. I get to see my girls so much now because he fought like hell to make sure I could see them as much as possible. I am thank full that I used him and I HIGHLY recommend him and his law firm Schlesinger and Strauss.

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Posted by Amy | November 4, 2017

He achieved the impossible for me

I came to Michael with the hopes of revoking my daughter's father's parental rights. I was coming to the end of a 2 year restraining order my daughter and I had against him and did not want him returning into our lives. I told Michael my intentions and he was very straight forward letting me know it is almost impossible to take away parental rights without the other parents consent. Michael knew exactly what orders we needed to put in place to take away any control her father had, and he fought very hard for me in court for the large amount of back pay he owed me. Michael was always very on top of everything, sending me petitions he had written up the same day we were in court and filing them quickly. He responded to all my emails within the same day and explained things to me in a way I could understand. He never stopped putting pressure on my daughter's father and eventually her dad gave up and agreed to relinquish his parental rights. I never would have been able to get this achieved without his help and expertise. He knows the ins and outs of family law and I would 110% refer him to family and friends. He has made it possible for my daughter to be adopted by my husband who has been a father figure for her, and she will have a positive role model to look up to now as she grows. I couldn't have been happier with the service Michael and his law firm provided us.

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Posted by Eileen | December 21, 2016

Great lawyer and supporting lawyer

Michael does have an amazing knowledge of the law and has a way with calming his clients. He is a good guy. I can't say enough about his associate Lindsey. She by far is the best lawyer I have ever seen. I trusted her every word and looked at her like a friend. I would recommend anyone to this firm because of michaeles knowledge of the law, no bs attitude, on top of the amazing coworker lawyer Lindsey who truly huided me the best way possible and I will forever be grateful to. Thank you all again. Signed one happy client.

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Posted by anonymous | March 2, 2016

Michael Strauss

Making the final decision to divorce my husband was difficult and I consulted with Michael Strauss for many years before actually having him served. It was the best decision I have made and Michael guided me throughout the entire process. He was tough when necessary and kept me and my children’s best interest as the main focus. I would recommend Michael and his firm any day.

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Cost

Resume

AVVO RATING 10.0 (Superb)

Work Experience

Managing Partner
Strauss & Hoyt, LLC
2023 - Present

Partner
Schlesinger & Strauss, LLC
2010 - Present

Associate
The Law Office of Gary L. Schlesinger
2006 - 2010

Associate
Shaw Jacobs & Associates
2004 - 2006

View all work experience

Education

DePaul University College of Law
Family and Divorce Mediation Training
2008

University of Illinois College of Law
JD - Juris Doctor
2004

University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign
BS - Bachelor of Science
1999

Associations

College of Lake County, Paralegal Program
Career Advisory Committee Member
2021 - Present

University of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer, and Environmental Sciences
Alumni Association BOD, Human Development and Family Studies
2021 - Present

Illinois State Bar Association, General Assembly
Assembly
2019 - Present

Illinois State Bar Association
Assembly Agenda and Program Committee Member
2019 - Present

A Safe Place
Vice President
2014 - Present

Lake County Bar Association
Member
2006 - Present

University of Illinois College of Law Alumni Association
Member
2004 - Present

Kane County Bar Association
Member
2004 - Present

Illinois State Bar Association
Member
2004 - Present

Illinois State Bar Association
Chair: Family Law Section Council
2019 - 2020

Illinois State Bar Association
Chair, Family Law Section Council
2019 - 2020

Illinois State Bar Association
Vice Chair: Family Law Section Council
2018 - 2019

Family Law Section Council, Illinois State Bar Association
Secretary: Family Law Section Council
2017 - 2018

Illinois State Bar Association, Family Law Section
Member, Family Law Section Council
2014 - 2022

Illinois State Bar Association, Child Law Section
Child Law Section Council
2013 - 2015

Illinois State Bar Association, General Assembly
Assembly
2010 - 2016

Lake County Bar Association
Editor of "The Docket" legal publication
2009 - 2016

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Languages Spoken

English

Honors and Awards

Betty Toser "Angel" Award
A Safe Place
2021

Richard H. Teas Legislative Support Award
Illinois State Bar Association
2020

Super Lawyer
Super Lawyers Magazine
2020

Super Lawyer
Super Lawyers Magazine
2019

Access to Justice Award
Lake County Bar Association
2018

Outstanding Community Achievement Award
Lake County Housing Authority
2018

Super Lawyer
Super Lawyers Magazine
2018

Super Lawyer
Super Lawyers Magazine
2017

Emerging Lawyer
Leading Lawyers Network
2017

Rising Star
Super Lawyers Magazine
2016

Rising Star
Super Lawyers Magazine
2015

Forty Illinois Lawyers Under Forty to Watch
Chicago Law Bulletin
2014

Rising Star
Super Lawyers Magazine
2014

F. Dennis Franz f/k/a Russell Bundeson Award
American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers
2004

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Publications

The Docket - A Publication of the Lake County Bar Association
Rules or Mere Suggestions
2020

The Docket - A Publication of the Lake County Bar Association
Fear and Loathing in Waukegan: An Appeal for Greater Civility
2019

The Docket - A Publication of the Lake County Bar Association
Domestic Violence
2019

Illinois State Bar Association Family Law Newsletter
Equitable Estoppel
2018

The Docket - A Publication of the Lake County Bar Association
Equitable Adoptions
2014

The Docket - A Publication of the Lake County Bar Association
Docket Tips
2012

The Docket - A Publication of the Lake County Bar Association
Bruce David
2012

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Speaking Engagements

Family Law Mid-Year Seminar
Legislative Update
2021

Matrimonial Law CLE
Effect of Section 607.6 of the IMDMA and Proposed Amendments
2020

Family Law Back to Basics
Temporary Relief: Emergency, Ex parte, and Otherwise
2020

Association of Women Attorneys of Lake County Monthly Meeting
Effect of Section 607.6 of the IMDMA and Proposed Amendments
2020

Symposium for a Safer Lake County
Developments in Family Law
2019

Prairie State Legal Services Webinar
Maintenance in Illinois: Recent Changes in the Law
2019

North American Regional Conference
Maintenance in Illinois
2019

Lake County Bar Association Brown Bag
Maintenance without Alimony Deduction
2019

Family Law and Continuing Education for Mediators
30 Mediation Tips in 60 Minutes
2019

New Child Support and Parenting Laws
New Child Support Laws in Illinois
2017

Motions for Finding
Motions for Finding
2017

Income Shares: New Rules for Child Support Guidelines Webinar
Child Support Add-Ons
2017

Demonstrative Exhibits & Summaries at Trial
Demonstrative Exhibits
2017

Child Support Seminar
Child Support Add-Ons
2017

University of Illinois College of Law
Perspectives on Practice: Family Law
2016

There's a Judgment Against Me...What do I do!!!!!
Motions to Vacate or Reconsider
2016

Mortgage Foreclosure and Dissolution
Consolidation of Cases
2016

Family Law Legislative Update
Child Support and Maintenance
2015

21st Annual Family Law Conference
Guardianship in Dissolution Proceedings
2015

20th Annual Family Law Conference
Equitable Adoptions
2014

Alumni/Student Conference
Family Law
2013

19th Annual Family Law Conference
Getting Matters Heard & Getting Relief
2013

Alumni/Student Conference
Family Law
2012

13th Annual Family Law Conference
Discovery Objections
2007

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Attorney endorsements

Received (15)

Given (15)

Endorse Michael

Stuart Reid

Family Attorney | Nov 11
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

"I endorse this lawyer. I have had several cases against him over the years and he knows the law well and is a strong advocate for his clients. He is a credit to the profession."

Thomas Field

Divorce and separation Attorney | Oct 11
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I have known Mike since he first became a lawyer and have watched him grow into an excellent advocate for his clients, be it in the capacity of divorce counsel or as a Guardian for Children. Mike is compassionate, yet practical, and will always steer his clients in the direction best suited for an equitable resolution to their matter. Mike does not shy away from courtroom disputes, but like any good lawyer, will always look for a non-confrontational resolution where possible. I highly recommend Mike."

Melanie Caspi

Family Attorney | May 02
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. Michael is a committed family law attorney who fights for his clients with integrity."

Megan McAlister

Family Attorney | Oct 12
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Jordan Rosenberg

Divorce and separation Attorney | Jul 24
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

"Michael is a staple in the family law community. He is approachable, reasonable, intelligent and has an innate ability to bring people together. It is a pleasure to have Michael on the other side of a case."

Michael Elkin

Divorce and separation Attorney | Jan 19
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Fantastic Lawyer who is ethical and determined to win for his clients."

Gary Newland

Family Attorney | Oct 28
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. Michael is a great lawyer and really understands family law. He has represented many people I know and he has done excellent work. I fully trust him."

Jerald Kessler

Family Attorney | Oct 16
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Michael Strauss is a highly effective advocate. He provides excellent service for his clients. He is well respected by his colleagues and recognized for his knowledge of the law."

Neal Simon

Divorce and separation Attorney | Oct 14
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Michael is a very knowledgable, diligent, and reasonable attorney."

Michael Goldberg

Family Attorney | Oct 11
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I highly endorse Michael in the area of family law. His dedication and compassion for families in need are second to none."

Morgan Stogsdill

Family Attorney | Oct 10
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

"I endorse this lawyer. Michael is intelligent and well seasoned. He is very professional to have on the other side as well as responsive."

Christine Adams

Divorce and separation Attorney | Oct 01
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Joseph O'Brien

Family Attorney | Sep 04
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Sherby Scurto

Divorce and separation Attorney | Apr 02
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer as he is highly skilled."

Stephen Newland

Divorce and separation Attorney | Feb 08
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I highly recommend Mike Strauss for anybody needing legal representation for a family law / divorce related matter. Mike has a tremendous amount of expertise in this area of law. Mike is focused and dedicated in serving his clients' needs. Clients that I have referred to Mike have been so very satisfied with his services. Mike is an attorney you want to have on your side."

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Jordan Rosenberg

Family

Stuart Reid

Divorce and separation

Jerald Kessler

Mediation

Christopher Haaff

Divorce and separation

Michael Goldberg

Personal injury

Neal Simon

Divorce and separation

Jason Adess

Family

Thomas Field

Divorce and separation

Morgan Stogsdill

Divorce and separation

Criminal defense

Family

Bankruptcy and debt

Divorce and separation

Christine Adams

Bankruptcy and debt

Stephen Newland

Bankruptcy and debt

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Michael S. Strauss

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