Jonathan Drake Steele

Jonathan Drake Steele

4.8
Rating: 10.0

Licensed for 14 years

Divorce and separation Lawyer at Chicago, IL
Practice Areas: Divorce & Separation, Domestic Violence, Child Support, Child Custody

161 North Clark Street, Suite 3000, Chicago, IL

About Jonathan

Biography

Practice Areas

4

Practice Areas

Divorce and Separation 40%

The pursuit of child support, allocation of parental responsibilities, divorce and orders of protection under the Domestic Violence Act. The practice also includes defense of each of these areas.

12 years | 200 cases

40%
Domestic Violence 30%

I provide compassionate legal support to protect victims and secure their safety. I am dedicated to navigating the complexities of restraining orders and advocating for the rights and well-being of those affected.

14 years | 100 cases

30%
Child Custody 15%

Dedicated to child custody matters, I advocate for arrangements that prioritize the best interests of the child while respecting parental rights. I work to negotiate solutions that foster stability and healthy family dynamics.

12 years | 200 cases

15%
Child Support 15%

I advocate for fair financial arrangements that ensure the well-being of children. I work diligently to resolve disputes and establish support that reflects both parents' circumstances and best interests of the child.

12 years | 200 cases

15%

Fees and Rates

Cost

Free Consultation

$0 first 30 minutes

Hourly Rates

$ 500-525 per hour

Pro bono

5 %

Retainer

Sometimes


Payment Methods

  • Cash
  • Check
  • Credit Card

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Licenses

Licensed in Illinois for 14 years

State: Illinois

Acquired: 2012

Active and Authorized to Practice Law

No misconduct found

Location

Beermann LLP

161 North Clark Street, Suite 3000, Chicago, IL, 60601

Beermann LLP

2275 Half Day Rd, Suite 350, Bannockburn, IL, 60015

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Jonathan Drake Steele's Reviews

Avvo Review Score

4.8 /5.0

41 Client Reviews

Filter Avvo Reviews (41) Refine reviews to match your needs. Use the filters to quickly surface reviews that align with your case or priorities.

Showing 1 - 5 of 12 reviews | Communication Style

Posted by Feliza | June 04, 2025 | Hired Attorney | Family

Failed to Disclose Conflict, Then Retaliated with Fee Petition

I retained Jonathan Steele and his firm, Beermann LLP, for nearly 12 years and paid hundreds of thousands of dollars for representation in a high-conflict family law case. In 2025, I was forced to change counsel after discovering—on my own—that Beermann was involved in a federal lawsuit where my judg...e was a named defendant. The lawsuit was repeatedly referenced by the opposing party, who even quoted Mr. Steele as saying, “We’ve got (our current judge)", implying improper influence.” Despite this lawsuit actively undermining my case, Mr. Steele never disclosed it or advised me of the clear conflict of interest. He continued billing me for work affected by it and failed in his ethical duty of transparency. When I respectfully transitioned to new counsel, he ignored all efforts to resolve my final bill—including requests for a payment plan and reference to a discount he had previously agreed to via text. Then he appeared in court to file a fee petition, knowing I had been actively trying to settle. Jonathan’s actions felt retaliatory and showed a complete lack of integrity. I strongly advise others to seek counsel elsewhere.

Posted by Jason | August 24, 2024 | Hired Attorney | Divorce & Separation

Thank you.

Going through a divorce is one of the most challenging experiences a person can face, and having Jonathan in your corner made all the difference. From the outset, Jonathan stood out for his thoroughness and attention to detail. He doesn’t just skim the surface—he digs deep to understand every nuance ...of your situation, ensuring that nothing is overlooked. Jonathan’s strategic thinking is on another level. He doesn’t approach cases with a one-size-fits-all mentality; instead, he tailors his approach to the unique circumstances of each client. I felt confident knowing that he was crafting a strategy that was specific to my needs and goals. His ability to foresee potential challenges and address them proactively saved time, stress, and ultimately led to a favorable outcome. Communication with Jonathan was seamless. He was always available to answer questions, provide updates, and offer reassurance when needed. His responsiveness was a breath of fresh air during such an overwhelming time. Jonathan made sure I was never left in the dark and always felt supported. But what really sets Jonathan apart is his unwavering commitment to his clients. He genuinely cares about the people he represents, and it shows in every interaction. He’s not just about winning cases—he’s about helping his clients move forward with their lives in the best possible way. His compassion, combined with his legal expertise, makes him a powerhouse in the courtroom and a true ally outside of it. If you’re searching for a divorce lawyer who will go above and beyond for you, look no further than Jonathan. He’s smart, strategic, and truly dedicated to his clients’ well-being. I couldn’t have asked for a better advocate during such a difficult time.

Posted by Lucas | June 26, 2024 | Hired Attorney

Efficient and Insightful

Jonathan Steele is not only a skilled attorney but also an exceptional communicator. His ability to distill complex legal matters into clear, actionable steps was invaluable. He and his team handled my case with efficiency and provided insightful guidance every step of the way.

Posted by Sandra | May 27, 2024 | Hired Attorney | Lawsuits & Disputes

Empathetic and Effective

From the moment I hired Jonathan Steele, I knew I was in good hands. He was empathetic to my situation and incredibly effective in court. His ability to clearly communicate legal concepts made the process much less stressful.

Posted by Robert | May 15, 2024 | Hired Attorney | Lawsuits & Disputes

Far better than the long line of lawyers that came before

I have worked with 5 different lawyers in the 8 years my case languished in the court system. Working with Jonathan was enlightening and reassuring. He was straightforward about the legal process and achieved outstanding results. His vibrant demeanor and strategic acumen in the courtroom were truly i...mpressive. It was night and day compared to those that came before him. I would highly recommend his services to anyone in need.

See All Client Reviews

Jonathan Drake Steele's Lawyer Endorsements

Endorse Jonathan
Stephanie Sexauer headshot
Stephanie Sexauer

Divorce and separation lawyer | Sep 10

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Jonathan is clear and concise in his arguments at the bench and explains the law to his clients. He's a great lawyer and I wouldn't hesitate recommending him."

Justino Louis Mirabelli headshot
Justino Mirabelli

Domestic violence lawyer | Feb 20

Relationship: Co-worker

"I endorse this lawyer."

Heather Jordan Rosen headshot
Heather Rosen

Family lawyer | Nov 15

Relationship: Co-worker

"I endorse this lawyer."

Matthew David Elster headshot
Matthew Elster

Divorce and separation lawyer | Oct 02

Relationship: Co-worker

"Jonathan is an effective and zealous advocate for his clients. I strongly endorse him."

Jason A. Krawetz headshot
Jason Krawetz

Divorce and separation lawyer | Oct 01

Relationship: Co-worker

"Jonathan is an outstanding attorney. He is extremely well versed with the relevant statutes and case law, creative, and uses his in-depth understanding of the law to help his clients resolve their problems and meet their goals. Jonathan is also very attentive to his clients and makes keeping his clients involved and up to speed a priority."

Jordan David Rosenberg headshot
Jordan Rosenberg

Divorce and separation lawyer | Aug 06

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Jonathan is incredible - he is sharp, knowledgeable, organized, confident and approachable. Jonathan is result driven and a pleasure to work with. I highly endorse this lawyer in all aspects of domestic relations."

Laura Marie Presto headshot
Laura Presto

Family lawyer | Feb 11

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Jonathan is an excellent lawyer with a fine attention to detail in all aspects of his cases. He is incredibly thorough and is set apart from many others in his practice field by thinking outside of the box. He has a polished demeanor and courtroom presentation. I have been extremely impressed with his knowledge and handle of precedent and court rules. I endorse Mr. Steele without hesitation."

Marvin A. Mendez headshot
Marvin Mendez

Divorce and separation lawyer | Sep 10

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Jonathan is at all times professional and courteous. He is detail-oriented and organized. Although Jonathan will go to court when necessary, his approach is always to work towards the best outcome for the clients with a focus on a negotiated settlement. He understands the emotional and financial difficulties people face when going through divorce. Jonathan provides compassionate, knowledgeable and zealous representation, and is always up-to-date on developing legal issues."

Sally Pissetzky headshot
Sally Pissetzky

Family lawyer | Feb 19

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Outstanding writer, researcher and court conduct. Does several pro bono cases a year and has a high success rate."

Joseph Ronald Napoli II headshot
Joseph Napoli

Family lawyer | Jan 27

Relationship: Worked together on matter

"I endorse this lawyer."

View All Endorsements
Justino Louis Mirabelli headshot
Justino Mirabelli

Agriculture lawyer

Heather Jordan Rosen headshot
Heather Rosen

Family lawyer

Jason A. Krawetz headshot
Jason Krawetz

Family lawyer

Jordan David Rosenberg headshot
Jordan Rosenberg

Family lawyer

Gal Pissetzky headshot
Gal Pissetzky

Criminal defense lawyer

Joseph Ronald Napoli II headshot
Joseph Napoli

Family lawyer

Experience

Rating:  10.0 (Superb)

Honors

2026

Best Lawyers in America, Best Lawyers

2026

Leading Lawyer, Leading Lawyers Network

2025

Rising Star, SuperLawyers

2025

Forty Illinois Lawyers Under Forty to Watch, Chicago Law Bulletin

2024

Rising Star, Super Lawyers

2023

Rising Star, Super Lawyers

2022

Rising Star, Super Lawyers

2021

Rising Star, Super Lawyers

2021

Emerging Lawyer, Leading Lawyers Network

2020

Emerging Lawyer, Leading Lawyers Network

2020

Rising Star, Super Lawyers

2019

Emerging Lawyer, Leading Lawyers Network

2019

Rising Star, Super Lawyers

2018

Emerging Lawyer, Leading Lawyers Network

2018

Rising Star, Super Lawyers

2017

Emerging Lawyer, Leading Lawyers Network

2017

Rising Star, Super Lawyers

2016

Rising Star, Super Lawyers

2015

Top 10 Attorneys Under 40, National Academy Of Family Law Attorneys

2015

10 Best Under 40 Client Satisfaction Award, American Institute of Family Law Attorneys

2014

Top 10 Attorneys Under 40, National Academy Of Family Law Attorneys

2014

10 Best Under 40, American Institute of Family Law Attorneys

Work Experience

2019 - Present

Partner, Beermann Law LLP

2012 - 2019

Attorney, Beermann Pritikin Mirabelli Swerdlove LLP

2011 - 2012

Law Clerk, Beermann Pritikin Mirabelli Swerdlove LLP

2002 - 2011

Law Clerk, Nadler Pritikin Mirabelli LLC

Associations

2012 - Present

Illinois State Bar Association

Member

2012 - Present

Chicago Bar Association

Member

2012 - Present

American Bar Association

Member

Education

2011

John Marshall Law School, Chicago

JD - Juris Doctor

2007

Indiana University

Bachelors of Arts

Speaking Engagements

2024

Judgment Day: Strategic Uses of Declaratory and Summary Judgment in Family Law Strategic Uses of Declaratory and Summary Judgment in Family Law

Publications

Languages

Spanish

English

Hebrew

Activity

Avvo Rating

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