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Lisa Marie Giese

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Avvo Rating10
  • Wheaton, IL
  • Licensed for 11 years
  • Free consultation
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About Lisa

Lisa M. Giese is a licensed attorney concentrating in domestic relations and bankruptcy matters in Cook, DuPage, Kane, Kendall, Will and surrounding collar counties.  Within the field of family law, Ms. Giese has handled a variety of uncontested and contested cases including pre-decree and post-decree divorce, child support enforcement, paternity and visitation matters, custody and removal cases, DCFS appeals, orders of protection, and disabled adult guardianships.  Ms. Giese is a zealous advocate for her clients and knows when a case should be settled and when it requires aggressive representation and litigation. 

 

As a trained Guardian ad Litem with the Eighteenth Judicial Circuit Court, Ms. Giese has been appointed by the Court on numerous occasions to serve in that capacity and to make recommendations relating to custody, parenting time, and removal in accordance with the best interests of the minor children.  Ms. Giese has also served many years as a volunteer for the Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) program in Cook and DuPage County assisting the Court in complex abuse and neglect cases within the juvenile court system.  While in law school, Ms. Giese focused her studies in family law and earned her Certificate in Child and Family Law upon graduation.  Ms. Giese is an active member of the DuPage County Bar Association and Illinois State Bar Association and serves as a director for the DuPage Association of Women Lawyers.

 

Ms. Giese is also an experienced debtor’s rights attorney and is a regular advocate in bankruptcy, small claims and foreclosure court for families suffering due to the current economic state.  Ms. Giese helps homeowners analyze their current situation and determine whether a loan modification or bankruptcy can help them avoid losing their home in foreclosure.  Ms. Giese is also experienced in negotiating unsecured debts, including credit card, medical and IRS debt. 

 

Ms. Giese’s experience with bankruptcy and foreclosure regularly aids her in her practice of family law, where the two fields often become intertwined.  If your current or ex-spouse has filed bankruptcy while you are in the midst of a pre or post-decree divorce case, or you yourself are considering filing, contact Ms. Giese immediately to determine what your rights and obligations are.

Practice areas

Chapter 13 bankruptcyChapter 7 bankruptcyFamilyDivorce and separation
  1. Divorce and separation: 55%

    Divorce, Alimony & Spousal Support, Child Support, Paternity (Parentage), Custody, Visitation, Domestic Violence/Orders of Protection, Prenuptial & Postnuptial Agreements, and Adoption

  2. Family: 35%

    Divorce, Alimony & Spousal Support, Child Support, Paternity (Parentage), Custody, Visitation, Domestic Violence/Orders of Protection, Prenuptial & Postnuptial Agreements, and Adoption

  3. Chapter 7 bankruptcy: 5%

    Chapter 13 Bankruptcy, Chapter 7 Bankruptcy, Foreclosures, Loan Modifications, Debtor rights, Creditor Negotiations, and IRS Negotiations

  4. Chapter 13 bankruptcy: 5%

    Chapter 13 Bankruptcy, Chapter 7 Bankruptcy, Foreclosures, Loan Modifications, Debtor rights, Creditor Negotiations, and IRS Negotiations

Languages spoken

English

Contact

400 S. Knoll, Suite AB
address map

McSwain Nagle & Giese, P.C.

400 S. Knoll, Suite AB
Wheaton, IL, 60187

www.mngfamilylaw.com

Resume

License
StateStatusAcquiredUpdated
ILActive And Authorized To Practice Law200810/27/2019
We have not found any instances of professional misconduct for this lawyer.
Avvo Contributions
Legal answers17
Legal guides0
Awards
Award nameGrantorDate granted
Super LawyerSuper Lawyers2019
Rising StarSuper Lawyers2014
Rising StarSuper Lawyers2013
Certificate in Child and Family LawLoyola University Chicago School of Law2008
Work Experience
TitleCompany nameDuration
PartnerMcSwain Nagle & Giese, P.C.2020 - Present
PartnerKollias & Giese, P.C.2014 - 2020
Associate AttorneyAnderson & Associates, P.C.2008 - 2014
Legal Secretary & Law ClerkHanley Flight & Zimmerman2006 - 2008
Associations
Association namePosition nameDuration
Illinois State Bar AssociationSection Council2017 - Present
DuPage County Bar AssociationGAL Committee Member2013 - Present
Chicago Bar AssociationMember2012 - Present
DuPage County Bar AssociationMember2008 - Present
Illinois State Bar AssociationMember2008 - Present
DCBA Family Law CommitteeMember2008 - Present
Court Appointed Special AdvocateVolunteer Advocate2004 - Present
Illinois State Bar AssociationFamily Law Section Council2014 - 2015
Illinois State Bar AssociationYLD Council Member2013 - 2014
DuPage County Bar AssociationBoard of Directors2013 - 2016
DuPage Association of Women LawyersDirector2009 - 2013
Publications
Publication nameTitleDate
DCBA BriefSubstitution of Judge as a Matter of Right and the Application in Post-Judgment Proceedings: A Domestic Relations Perspective2012
DCBA Brief'Til Death Benefits do us Part: The Effect of Marital Settlement Agreements on Beneficiary Designations2010
Education
School nameDegreeGraduated
Loyola University School of LawJuris Doctor2008
Michigan State UniversityBA - Bachelor of Arts2004
Speaking Engagements
Conference nameTitleDate
Advanced Custody and Visitation IssuesGAL Appointed -Now What?2014
GAL Training SeminarRole of the GAL from the Perspective of the GAL2013
Legal cases
Case nameOutcome
In re Marriage of FlynnAffirmed.

Reviews

(21)
5 Star
100%
4 Star
0%
3 Star
0%
2 Star
0%
1 Star
0%
Review Lisa Giese

Great Representation

Posted by

I hired Lisa M. Giese in early 2018 to modify my Marital Settlement Agreement. She carefully listened to my concerns, reviewed the agreement, analyzed the options and recommended solutions that were both logical and made legal sense. Throughout the legal proceedings, I experienced a professional representation, a cohesive teamwork and a targeted approach on their end that bared results for me. I highly recommend attorney Lisa M. Giese and her team for any divorce or family case.
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

Excellent

Posted by

Lisa has been my lawyer for the past 4 years for various court precedings and has been awesome. She always knew what was going on with my case and always took the time to ask what I wanted the end result to be. She’s tough and not scared to speak her mind in a courtroom in order to fight for her client. Lisa also always worked with me financially in order to work around what I could afford. I would 10/10 recommend her to anyone and would hire her again if needed.
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

Thank you Lisa

Posted by

Truly gave me salient advice and more importantly took the time to listen. Very responsive. Knows Family Law, Understands strategy! Passion to go the extra mile for her clients. Thank you Lisa!
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
Consulted attorney

Post Decree - Child support and Custody

Posted by

I hired Lisa as my representative for a post decree child support and child custody case in Kane County. She was responsive and very competent. This is high praise if you knew how I feel about most attorneys. She was also very fair in her billing. Of course lawyers are expensive, but she was honest in her billing hours - often cutting me a break. I have acted pro-se and have dealt with multiple attorneys, mediators, and GALS. She is by far one of the best I have worked with. If you have to work with an attorney in Kane County, she is the way to go.
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

Very Happy with the Outcome of my Case

Posted by

I hired Lisa after switching attorneys during my divorce case, seeking new counsel. Lisa is responsive, understanding and knowledgeable. It was clear to me that she was paying attention to the details of my case throughout. During the case, Lisa was an excellent advocate for my son and I. Currently, I am so happy to spend the parenting time with my son that I was able to get agreement on via Lisa's help. Lisa is an excellent coach and counselor. I also found her encouraging and caring towards the stress of my case. Also- I was impressed by the legal team at Kollias and Giese. They are responsive and helpful when I needed their assistance. Lastly, and also very important- whenever I received an invoice, I felt like the billing was accurate and fair. Thanks very much Lisa!
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

If there were six stars I would have picked that.

Posted by

I did my research and selected Lisa Giese hoping she was everything her credentials said she was. Lisa is a great lawyer, a logical thinker and detailed professional. Her team is outstanding I felt confident thru the entire process. The billing was accurate and fair. I believe we won on every argument and Lisa had a better understanding of the law and judges directions. I know my case could have ended up completely different without Lisa excellent work. J.D.
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

Lisa was the resolution for my unfortunate, very unpleasant yet unavoidable divorce.

Posted by

Before writing this brief review I read again what others before me had to say of Lisa’s work. After having just concluded my divorce through her I have to say that I certainly “concur” with those recommendations praising her efforts. My divorce took 2 miserable years to conclude. In the process I went through 2 other lawyers before finding Lisa. She settled my matter quickly, very favorably and in a manner respectful and responsive to my needs and wants. Although I hope to never again be in a position to need these services from her, I will tell others that if they do, there is none better than Lisa.
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

If you're looking for the best

Posted by

This is actually the sight where I found Ms. Giese after two previous lawyers who came recommended but did little to include me in the decisions and direction of my case. Thankfully I found Lisa, she has been a god send to me. She is bright, prepared, committed, ethical and caring, an unusual set of traits in the divorce field. From our first meeting Lisa seemed invested in my case, she has been extremely hard working and thorough, responding promptly to my questions, emails, and calls . Unfortunately, after many attempts to reach settlement, my divorce had been highly contentious and complicated lasting 3 years. After going to trial as well as the appellate court, both with success, I have continued to retain Lisa's services to enforce the rulings of my settlement and to deal with the endless motions my former husband has initiated. Lisa's calm and warm demeanor as well as her in depth knowledge of the law is reassuring and inspiring. She will never give up on you. Lisa assesses your individual situation and treats you with respect while remaining focused on the best outcome for you. She will explain different courses of action and will act efficiently and honorably. If you are looking for someone who will act in your behalf with integrity and avoids unnecessary petty arguments with opposing counsel then you will not be disappointed in Lisa. She may not tell you what you want to hear at times, but she will be truthful and patient. Her knowledge base, negotiating skills and research driven practice allow her to avoid the nasty tactics that to often are used by other lawyers in this field. I don't know what I would have done without Lisa during this exceptionally stressful and challenging time. This is one accomplished young lady with insight and maturity beyond her years, not to mention class and grace; you will be impressed with her results.

Highest possible recommendation!

Posted by

After over three years of divorce and post-divorce dramatics with my ex, Lisa was able to come in, and for a fraction of the time, cost and aggravation that I'd experienced prior, actually bring some sanity and fairness to my situation. She got me some much needed relief on my maintenance obligations, got me more flexible and more time with my kids, and managed to finally get my name off the mortgage with my ex. I honestly consider her engagement on my case a godsend, and I cannot speak highly enough about her diligence, professionalism, and capability. If you have a need in this avenue, you couldn't possibly do better than to have her on your team!

Professional, Very Responsive, and Passionate!

Posted by

I was very lucky to find Lisa as my first attorney on my child custody and visitation needs. Where do I start, she’s amazing! Everything from responding quickly to my emails, to handling stressful situations with complete professionalism, through keeping me extremely well informed of the entire process. Lisa is very passionate in her work, and this alone makes a huge difference. Don’t think…just hire her. You won’t be disappointed.
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Attorney endorsements

(24)
Are you an attorney? Endorse this lawyer

Sean Mccumber, Divorce and separation Attorney on Apr 10, 2019
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I have known Lisa for as long as she has been practicing. She has come to me for advice, showing a strong ethic for growth. When we have been on opposing sides, she is beyond well-prepared, and knows every fact of every issue in her case. She has become one of the pillars of our legal community. I am proud to endorse her, and call her my friend.

Joseph O'Brien, Divorce and separation Attorney on Apr 2, 2019
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I endorse this lawyer.

Anique Drouin, Divorce and separation Attorney on Jul 5, 2016
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

Lisa is extremely professional and her knowledge of the law serves her clients in the best way possible. She is focused on effective resolution for her clients, and accomplishes that through skilled negotiations or tenacious litigation.

Ross Russell, Arbitration Attorney on Apr 20, 2016
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

Lisa is a zealous advocate for her clients with an excellent reputation in the community. She is always prepared for court, of the highest moral character, and an effective negotiator/skilled litigator.

Carol Cadiz, Personal injury Attorney on Oct 1, 2015
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

Lisa represented the husband on a divorce in which I represented the wife. She is very knowledgeable and very professional. She did a great job for her client & is well respected in the community for a reason.

Todd Scalzo, Divorce and separation Attorney on Aug 27, 2015
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I endorse this lawyer.

Rachel Laborde, Family Attorney on Jun 28, 2015
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

Attorney Giese has an expansive knowledge of the law and an impressive enthusiasm for her cases. Anyone would be lucky to have her as their counsel. I highly endorse this attorney.

Marc Bangser, Divorce and separation Attorney on May 13, 2015
Relationship: Worked together on matter

Lisa is not only a preeminent figure in the Guardian ad Litem arena, but she is a ferocious advocate for her clients in the divorce/family law side of things as well. I wholeheartedly endorse her in all fields in which she practices.

Jason Shore, Immigration Attorney on Apr 13, 2015
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I endorse this lawyer.

Maxine Weiss Kunz, Divorce and separation Attorney on Sep 27, 2014
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I endorse this lawyer.

Daniel Kollias, Divorce and separation Attorney on Apr 18, 2014
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

Lisa Giese is an excellent attorney. I have worked as opposing counsel to her on several matters. She has a thorough knowledge of the law and the factual details of her particular cases. Additionally, she maintains a focus on the "big picture" to ultimately achieve the best results for her clients. Even in contentious cases, she comports herself with a high level of professionalism. She is prompt, responsive, and invariably well-prepared.

Katherine Becker, Divorce and separation Attorney on Jan 27, 2014
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

Lisa is a very professional and knowledgeable advocate. I endorse this lawyer.

Mario Palermo, Personal injury Attorney on Dec 3, 2013
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

Lisa is a great person and an even better attorney. I endorse her.

Sarah Nolan, Divorce and separation Attorney on Sep 4, 2013
Relationship: Co-worker

I endorse this lawyer.

Jane Nagle, Divorce and separation Attorney on Aug 28, 2013
Relationship: Co-worker

I endorse this lawyer.

Steve Klein, DUI and DWI Attorney on Feb 7, 2012
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

Lisa has the perfect combination of intelligence and strong work ethic. I highly recommend her.

Howard Lewis, Divorce and separation Attorney on Aug 24, 2011
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I endorse this lawyer. Attorney Giese is an outstanding attonrey with an exceptional reputation. She is a strong and zealous advocate for her clients and a credit to the legal profession. I highly endorse her.

Chantelle Porter, Divorce and separation Attorney on Jun 23, 2010
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I endorse this lawyer's work.

Kiley Whitty, Divorce and separation Attorney on May 19, 2010
Relationship: Co-worker

I endorse this lawyer's work. Lisa is a fierce, yet reasonable negotiator who is well-respected in the legal community. She has a wealth of knowledge about complex legal issues and passionately advocates for her clients to achieve optimal results.

Viren Patel, Family Attorney on Apr 24, 2010
Relationship: Co-worker

Lisa is a true professional and tremendous colleague. In her dealings with clients she is professional, forthright and polite. Her practice area is demanding and while a passionate and zealous advocate for her clients, Lisa is always calm and practical. Lisa is well respected by her peers in the court rooms of DuPage. Additionally, Lisa devotes her spare time to the bar associations and their activities.

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