Michael S. Strauss

Michael S. Strauss

4.5
Rating: 10.0

Licensed for 21 years

Family Lawyer at Libertyville, IL
Practice Areas: Family, Divorce & Separation, Child Custody ... +2 more

1512 Artaius Parkway, Suite 300, Libertyville, IL

About Michael

Biography

Practice Areas

5

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.

23%
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.

23%
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.

22%
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.

22%
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.

10%

Fees and Rates

Cost

Retainer

Always


Payment Methods

  • Cash
  • Check
  • Credit Card

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Licenses

Licensed in Illinois for 21 years

State: Illinois

Acquired: 2004

Active and Authorized to Practice Law

No misconduct found

Location

Strauss & Hoyt, LLC.

1512 Artaius Parkway, Suite 300, Libertyville, IL, 60048

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Michael S. Strauss's Reviews

Avvo Review Score

4.5 /5.0

43 Client Reviews

Showing 11 - 15 of 18 reviews | Communication Style

Posted by anonymous | February 23, 2015 | Lawsuits & Disputes

unfortunately would not recommend

It took months for their group to respond to me via email or phone, it took several months for them to start working on my petitions, and when they did, it was poorly written. I did not feel supported at all. Poor communication (if any), and felt like I could not trust them to do what was best for me... and my case. I had to "fire" them after initial petitions were filed due to their apathetic attitudes.

Michael Strauss

Replied last March 04, 2012

I honestly have no idea who this is or could be as this has never happened. It has never ever takens over a week, let alone a month, for me to contact someone. Never. Perhaps, they have could me with someone else.

Posted by Shari | November 20, 2014 | Divorce & Separation

No one Better in my mind.

Getting divorced is a very difficult time in ones life. Not knowing where to turn or whom to trust is a big concern. Never having needed a lawyer before I was scared, afraid and clueless how to find one. A woman that I became friends with had a husband that was a divorce attorney. One day I just... came out and asked for his number. That was the moment I knew I had found the best attorney I could have hoped for. Michael Strauss is a very compasionate, caring, trustworthy attorney. He made me feel like I mattered and that he was going to do the best he could for me. My divorce took a long time to settle. There NEVER was a phone call that was not answered or a question to small to ask. I always felt well informed and comfortable when I had to go to court. Going through the most difficult time in my life was made easier knowing I had Michael Strauss representing me.

Posted by anonymous | October 13, 2014 | Divorce & Separation

Amazing Attorney!

No one goes into a divorce with a clear head and there are always tons of emotions clouding the big picture. Mike did a fantastic job of helping me clearly see all of my options while respecting the huge emotional roller coaster I was experiencing. He was a rock for me, always remaining calm. His ...very prompt responses to my questions helped take away some anxiety and I felt like I knew what was happening every step of the way. He is extremely intelligent and its obvious that he is well respected. I know 2 other people who he has helped that would share the same comments.

Posted by Jonathan | October 22, 2013

Highly Recommended Attorney

Michael took the time to understand my situation, assess our options and explain them to me very clearly. I said 'assess OUR options' because Michael really made me feel like he was in it with me. I would recommend working with Michael without hesitation.

Posted by anonymous | October 08, 2013 | Divorce & Separation

Wonderful, prompt, trustworthy, knowledgeable, professional

I would like to say a few words about the terrific job that Mike Strauss did for me with my divorce. I was probably like most others who find themselves in this position, hurt, stunned and feeling lost and alone. I had little idea of what to expect. I could immediately tell at my initial con...sultation with Mike that he was not only a truly caring person, but had vast experience with divorce situations. Both of these things were very comforting. At the initial consultation, I was able to give Mike the details of the breakdown of my marriage and my financial information. From this information Mike was able to give me an a logical plan of action and likely outcomes. In my case I chose to move forward with the divorce and Mike did a wonderful job of guiding me through the process. There are ongoing questions that need to be answered as the process evolves and Mike was very responsive answering questions and giving advice in a prompt and efficient manner. I would recommend Mike Strauss to anyone finding themselves in the same position that I was, facing a divorce.

See All Client Reviews

Michael S. Strauss's Lawyer Endorsements

Endorse Michael
Stuart Allan Reid headshot
Stuart Reid

Family lawyer | 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 T. Field headshot
Thomas Field

Divorce and separation lawyer | 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 headshot
Melanie Caspi

Family lawyer | 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 Valda McAlister headshot
Megan McAlister

Family lawyer | Oct 12

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Jordan David Rosenberg headshot
Jordan Rosenberg

Divorce and separation lawyer | 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 David Elkin headshot
Michael Elkin

Divorce and separation lawyer | Jan 19

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

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

Gary A. Newland headshot
Gary Newland

Family lawyer | 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 headshot
Jerald Kessler

Family lawyer | 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 Adam Simon headshot
Neal Simon

Divorce and separation lawyer | Oct 14

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

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

Michael Jason Goldberg headshot
Michael Goldberg

Family lawyer | 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 Lynn Stogsdill headshot
Morgan Stogsdill

Family lawyer | 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 B. Adams headshot
Christine Adams

Divorce and separation lawyer | Oct 01

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Joseph Pierce O'Brien headshot
Joseph O'Brien

Family lawyer | Sep 04

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Sherby Dianne Scurto headshot
Sherby Scurto

Divorce and separation lawyer | Apr 02

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

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

Stephen S. Newland headshot
Stephen Newland

Divorce and separation lawyer | 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."

View All Endorsements
Jordan David Rosenberg headshot
Jordan Rosenberg

Family lawyer

Stuart Allan Reid headshot
Stuart Reid

Divorce and separation lawyer

Jerald Kessler headshot
Jerald Kessler

Mediation lawyer

Christopher S. Haaff headshot
Christopher Haaff

Divorce and separation lawyer

Michael Jason Goldberg headshot
Michael Goldberg

Personal injury lawyer

Neal Adam Simon headshot
Neal Simon

Divorce and separation lawyer

Jason G Adess headshot
Jason Adess

Family lawyer

Thomas T. Field headshot
Thomas Field

Divorce and separation lawyer

Morgan Lynn Stogsdill headshot
Morgan Stogsdill

Divorce and separation lawyer

Jason R. Mercure headshot
Jason Mercure

Criminal defense lawyer

Sherby Dianne Scurto headshot
Sherby Scurto

Family lawyer

Lorinne J. Cunningham headshot
Lorinne Cunningham

Bankruptcy and debt lawyer

Bradley Parker David headshot
Bradley David

Divorce and separation lawyer

Christine B. Adams headshot
Christine Adams

Bankruptcy and debt lawyer

Stephen S. Newland headshot
Stephen Newland

Bankruptcy and debt lawyer

Experience

Rating:  10.0 (Superb)

Honors

2021

Betty Toser "Angel" Award, A Safe Place

2020

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

2020

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers Magazine

2019

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers Magazine

2018

Access to Justice Award, Lake County Bar Association

2018

Outstanding Community Achievement Award, Lake County Housing Authority

2018

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers Magazine

2017

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers Magazine

2017

Emerging Lawyer, Leading Lawyers Network

2016

Rising Star, Super Lawyers Magazine

2015

Rising Star, Super Lawyers Magazine

2014

Forty Illinois Lawyers Under Forty to Watch, Chicago Law Bulletin

2014

Rising Star, Super Lawyers Magazine

2004

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

Work Experience

2023 - Present

Managing Partner, Strauss & Hoyt, LLC

2010 - Present

Partner, Schlesinger & Strauss, LLC

2006 - 2010

Associate, The Law Office of Gary L. Schlesinger

2004 - 2006

Associate, Shaw Jacobs & Associates

Associations

2021 - Present

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

2019 - Present

Illinois State Bar Association, General Assembly

Assembly

2019 - Present

Illinois State Bar Association

Assembly Agenda and Program Committee Member

2014 - Present

A Safe Place

Vice President

2006 - Present

Lake County Bar Association

Member

2004 - Present

University of Illinois College of Law Alumni Association

Member

2004 - Present

Kane County Bar Association

Member

2004 - Present

Illinois State Bar Association

Member

2019 - 2020

Illinois State Bar Association

Chair: Family Law Section Council

2019 - 2020

Illinois State Bar Association

Chair, Family Law Section Council

2018 - 2019

Illinois State Bar Association

Vice Chair: Family Law Section Council

2017 - 2018

Family Law Section Council, Illinois State Bar Association

Secretary: Family Law Section Council

2014 - 2022

Illinois State Bar Association, Family Law Section

Member, Family Law Section Council

2013 - 2015

Illinois State Bar Association, Child Law Section

Child Law Section Council

2010 - 2016

Illinois State Bar Association, General Assembly

Assembly

2009 - 2016

Lake County Bar Association

Editor of "The Docket" legal publication

Education

2008

DePaul University College of Law

Family and Divorce Mediation Training

2004

University of Illinois College of Law

JD - Juris Doctor

1999

University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign

BS - Bachelor of Science

Speaking Engagements

2021

Family Law Mid-Year Seminar

Legislative Update

2020

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

2019

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

2017

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

2016

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

2015

Family Law Legislative Update

Child Support and Maintenance

2015

21st Annual Family Law Conference

Guardianship in Dissolution Proceedings

2014

20th Annual Family Law Conference

Equitable Adoptions

2013

Alumni/Student Conference

Family Law

2013

19th Annual Family Law Conference

Getting Matters Heard & Getting Relief

2012

Alumni/Student Conference

Family Law

2007

13th Annual Family Law Conference

Discovery Objections

Publications

2020

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

2019

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

2018

Illinois State Bar Association Family Law Newsletter Equitable Estoppel

2014

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

2012

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

Languages

English

Activity

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