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Paul Chatzky

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Avvo Rating9.5
  • Northfield, IL
  • Licensed for 38 years
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About Paul

Mr. Chatzky enjoys the recognition of the Martindale-Hubbell Bar Register of Preeminent Lawyers and an "AV" Peer Review Rating. Mr. Chatzky is also listed among Illinois "Super Lawyers".

 

Mr. Chatzky dedicates himself to resolving disputes for his clients in an efficient and cost effective manner. Clients realize excellent legal representation at costs often significantly lower than other large firms.

As an experienced advocate, Mr. Chatzky understands that clients have a right to measure the quality, resourcefulness, and cost of representation. He recognizes that “results” do matter to his clients and is committed to afford zealous advocacy on his client’s behalf where appropriate and justified.

As an experienced counselor, Mr. Chatzky also believes that his clients have the right to be kept informed of the progress of their cases and that they must be informed of pertinent legal issues and concerns that might impact the desired result. 

Mr. Chatzky commits to afford personal attention to his clients to assure that his counsel & advice is premised upon proper understanding and concern.

Mr. Chatzky is a Member of the American Bar Association's Family Law and Criminal Justice Sections.

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Practice areas

OtherMarriage and prenuptialsChild supportChild custodyDivorce and separation
  1. Divorce and separation: 40%

    Contested/Negotiated Divorce Complex Divorce Uncontested Divorce Legal Separation Child Custody Child Support Spousal Support

  2. Child custody: 10%

  3. Child support: 10%

  4. Marriage and prenuptials: 10%

  1. Family: 10%

    Contested/Negotiated Divorce Complex Divorce Uncontested Divorce Legal Separation Child Custody Child Support Spousal Support

  2. Criminal defense: 10%

    Misdemeanor/Felony Defense Domestic Battery Domestic Violence DUI Theft

  3. Violent crime: 10%

Languages spoken

Spanish

Contact

Law Offices Of Paul Chatzky

790 West Frontage Road Suite 115
Northfield, IL, 60093

    Resume

    License
    StateStatusAcquiredUpdated
    ILActive And Authorized To Practice Law198310/05/2021
    We have not found any instances of professional misconduct for this lawyer.
    Avvo Contributions
    Legal answers15
    Legal guides0
    Awards
    Award nameGrantorDate granted
    Super LawyerSuperLawyers2018
    AV Preeminent 5.0 out of 5 Peer Review RatedMartindale-Hubbell2018
    Peer Review RatedMartindale-Hubbell2018
    Super LawyerSuperLawyers2017
    Super LawyerSuperLawyers2016
    Super LawyersSuper Lawyers2015
    Work Experience
    TitleCompany nameDuration
    PrincipalLaw Offices of Paul Chatzky1996 - Present
    Instructor-Lawyer's Assistant ProgramRoosevelt University1997 - 1999
    InstructorCentury 21 Real Estate Academy1996 - 1999
    Managing AttorneyBorovsky & Ehrlich1987 - 1995
    Associations
    Association namePosition nameDuration
    American Bar AssociationMember2016 - Present
    Illinois State Bar AssociationMember1983 - Present
    Chicago Bar AssociationMemberN/A
    Lake County Bar AssociationMemberN/A
    Roosevelt University LAP ProgramInstructorN/A
    Bridgeview Chamber of Commerce and IndustryBoard of Directors1985 - 1986
    Education
    School nameDegreeGraduated
    University of Florida, Fredric G. Levin College of LawJD - Juris Doctor1982
    University of FloridaBA - Bachelor of Arts1980
    Speaking Engagements
    Conference nameTitleDate
    CLEA Child Custody Trial2013
    American Bar Association Negotiation CompetitionJudge, American Bar Association Negotiation Competition, The John Marshall Law School2010
    American Bar Association Negotiation CompetitionNegotiation Competition2010
    Managing Your Legal CareerEstablishing and managing a law practice1996
    Legal cases
    Case nameOutcome
    People of the State of Illinois v. John Doe (Confidential)Not Guilty
    The Marriage of John Doe (Confidential)Petition For Modification of Support granted
    People Of The State Of Illinois v. John Doe (Confidential)Not Guilty

    Reviews

    (13)5.0 stars
    5 Star
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    4 Star
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    3 Star
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    Review Paul Chatzky

    Excellent Attorney

    5.0 stars

    Posted by

    I've known Paul for many years and chose to have him personally represent me in my post-petition divorce matters. I know many divorce attorneys and did not choose to go back to my initial attorney, so this should resonate. Paul is extremely intelligent and is able to handle complex financial situations. He is very knowledgeable on all pertinent case law involved with divorce matters and the local civil procedure and other filing rules. He reminds me of a tax accountant who can rattle off random IRS code sections. His rates are also competitive and he can go up against any large downtown law firm and obtain great results. This I know from personal experience, as my ex-husband was represented by one of the most well-respected and often nasty law firms in downtown Chicago. He is also very sensitive to an individual's personal situation and a compassionate advocate. And most of all, he's a Mensch! I love Paul, he's the best divorce lawyer and a great friend!
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    This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
    Hired attorney

    Paul is a excellent lawyer that I would highly reccomend

    5.0 stars

    Posted by

    I hired Paul two years ago having used him for multiple petitions since there and have only had very positive experiences. When looking for a family law lawyer he contacted me within a day from when I sent in a request. He called me right away even though it was a Sunday to discuss the situation and gave me advice even prior to our initial consultation. Paul is incredibly skilled and versed in Illinois family law with a very strong background and experience in practicing in Lake county and Cook county. Due to this Paul is able to give very strategic advice and was able to best possible outcome from my legal situation. While he can be aggressive he is not a "bulldog" lawyer as he understands that law is an art and especially family law it is not always black and white so he does his best to lay out the situation, the options and the potential outcomes. He leaves it up to you to decide the best option to take but makes sure you are making an informed decision. Once you have decided how to best handle the situation he will aggressively execute on that decision but will also constantly reassess to make sure you will get the best outcome. Paul is an amazing legal resource and adviser but he will expect you to stay in the driver seat for any legal situation. You will need to do the leg work to provide Paul all the evidence and information but he will then break the information down and advise on the best course of action. As most legal situations are high stress Paul keeps himself incredibly open to communication and has responded to any urgent situations incredibly fast. When you hire him you have his attention and I've felt him truly care about my case and situation. I can not recall a item that it's taken more than 24 hours to get a response of call from him even on weekends and holidays. I would highly recommend Paul and I have personally given his card to several people when they need help in family law.
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    This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
    Hired attorney

    Best attorney!

    5.0 stars

    Posted by

    Beyond brilliant! Exceptional professionalism & knowledge of the law. This is an attorney that looks out for the well being of his clients to the fullest extent & I believe, treats each & every client with the upmost respect & dedicates himself to each & every case. I would recommend this attorney over & over.
    This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
    Consulted attorney

    Paul Chatzky does the almost impossible

    5.0 stars

    Posted by

    I was faced with a time sensitive set of serious issues, an emotionally unstable and vindictive opponent and limited financial means. Paul Chatzky laid out options, a sound strategy and immediately went to work. I was both fearful of my opponent and the potential consequence if my attorney wasn't successful in avoiding a law suit and both criminal and civil charges, both unwarranted. Within a week, Mr. Chatzky acted on the case, kept me informed, was clearly knowledgeable and avoided my worst fears from happening. I would say he is the most competent and trustworthy lawyer I have ever had. I would recommend him highly . I was particularly impressed with his ability to read and take action against my opponent. His style is calm, non conflictual, firm, and non litigious (if it can be avoided). His use of time in a productive and effective manner far outweighed that of lawyers I have hired before for other matters. I would hire hire him again should I need legal counsel.
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    Review of Paul Chatzky

    5.0 stars

    Posted by

    I had a great experience. Mr. Chatzky answered all of our questions in a way that we understood, he did not use big words that we could not understand. He took his time and did not rush us. He explained the whole picture with all the different options that we had and left the final decision to us. He was extremely knowledgeable. He made us feel very comfortable. If the occasion ever arose again I would surely contact Mr. Chatzky for representation.
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    Review of Paul Chatzky

    5.0 stars

    Posted by

    Paul is, simply put, superlative. His fundamental decency and humanity shines through his every action. He was fair, and at the same time was a zealous advocate for me as a client. He helped me navigate my divorce and was concerned about my emotional state as well as the legal issues.

    Highly Effective Representation in All Matters To Date

    5.0 stars

    Posted by

    Paul is a true professional and advocate. He is exceptionally responsive, attentive and remains current. He effectively handled my spouse's DUI by allowing her to serve a long probationary period and successfully avoid incarceration of any kind. Paul successfully guided, made pleas and took other measures to bring this matter to an advantagous outcome. Obtaining the courts permission for rehabilitation out of state was but one of his critical achievements during his tenure on this matter. Paul Chatzky is clearly respected in the courtrooms in the greater Chicago area and maintains effective working relationships with many in the legal community, as I was readily able to observe first hand. Paul is currently handling all of my estate planning. I highly recommend Mr. Paul Chatzky.
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    Divorce

    5.0 stars

    Posted by

    I was taken back to court by my ex-wife who petitioned for more money among others things. Paul did a great job of letting me know what battles to "fight", and others that would either prove to be costly or not likely to go in my favor. He is smart, and knows how to play "tough" when needed, and also how to negotiate well when that tact is called for.

    Client rating for attorney Paul Chatzky

    5.0 stars

    Posted by

    Attorney Chatzky provided excellent and timely advice and counseled me in a matter that could have resulted in a serious charge against me. I felt that he was not only the consummate professional but also a caring and understanding man who handled this matter as a true friend. I endorse his practice and wholeheartedly recommend him in the areas of law in which he practices.

    Paul Chatzky Professional Services Review

    5.0 stars

    Posted by

    Professional, attentive, courteous services you would expect from a large downtown firm, all available from a gifted sole practioner. Specifically, Paul Chatzky has advised 3 generations of my family on a multitude of issues. Whether for personal or business matters Paul is always available in a timely, caring manner,....using both inside and outside the box strategies to effect prompt resolutions to all types of matter and concerns. I have a continued comfort in retaining Paul's services for my personal and business needs, and would unquestionably recommend his services to anyone in need of professional guidance.
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    Attorney endorsements

    (8)
    Are you an attorney? Endorse this lawyer
    Lawyer Brian David Gryll

    Brian Gryll, Family Attorney on Nov 21, 2019
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    I endorse this lawyer. I have referred a number of clients to Paul and he has met or exceeded both my expectations as well as my clients' expectations. I will continue to refer clients (and family and friends) to Paul.

    Lawyer Andrew Mark Weisberg

    Andrew Weisberg, Family Attorney on Nov 20, 2019
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    I have had the pleasure of knowing Paul Chatzky for about 15 years or so. Paul is a highly intelligent and dedicated attorney that works very hard for each and every client. I understand Paul to be very responsive to the needs of his clients. I would recommend Paul should you be in need of excellent legal counsel.

    Lawyer Brian David Gryll

    Brian Gryll, Family Attorney on Nov 21, 2019
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    I endorse this lawyer. I have referred a number of clients to Paul and he has met or exceeded both my expectations as well as my clients' expectations. I will continue to refer clients (and family and friends) to Paul.

    Lawyer Andrew Mark Weisberg

    Andrew Weisberg, Family Attorney on Nov 20, 2019
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    I have had the pleasure of knowing Paul Chatzky for about 15 years or so. Paul is a highly intelligent and dedicated attorney that works very hard for each and every client. I understand Paul to be very responsive to the needs of his clients. I would recommend Paul should you be in need of excellent legal counsel.

    Lawyer Steven Michael Levin

    Steven Levin, Business Attorney on Jan 27, 2011
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    I have had the privilege of working on a number of cases with Paul and I fully endorse his work. He handles each of his cases with unmatched diligence, dedication and compassion, and delivers superior outcomes for his clients.

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    Leon Edelson, Divorce and separation Attorney on Jan 26, 2011
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    I endorse this lawyer. Paul is a terrific lawyer for his clients. He works hard for them, and always protects their rights. He communicates often and well with his clients. He provides status updates for them on a regular basis, and obtains the necessary information to move their project forward. Paul is direct, straight forward, and honest. He is a profile of what the legal profession should present. I am pleased to endorse Paul.

    Lawyer Sheldon Jay Aberman

    Sheldon Aberman, Criminal defense Attorney on Jan 25, 2011
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    I endorse this lawyer. I have known Paul for many years. He is a tireless advocate who delivers great results for his clients. Paul has an excellent reputation amongst his peers.

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    Owen Greenberg, Criminal defense Attorney on Aug 5, 2010
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    I endorse this lawyer's work. Paul is always well prepared, totally dedicated to his clients, and an excellent trial attorney.

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    Martin Blumenthal, General practice Attorney on Mar 11, 2010
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    Paul is a thorough, conscientious and attentive lawyer. He has a sterling reputation in the community.

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    Ashley Dworsky, General practice Attorney on Mar 10, 2010
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    I fully endorse Paul Chatzky. He is exceedingly diligent and a lawyer of great integrity.

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