David Zwaska

PRO

David Zwaska

5.0
Rating: 10.0

Licensed for 13 years

Divorce and separation Lawyer at Chicago, IL
Practice Areas: Divorce & Separation, Family, Child Support ... +2 more

440 W Randolph Street, 5th Floor, Chicago, IL

Virtual Consultation Available

About David

Biography

I am a dedicated family law attorney working in Cook, DuPage, Lake and Will counties.

Practice Areas

5

Practice Areas

Divorce and Separation 50%

15 years | 20 cases

50%
Family 25%

25%
Child Custody 10%

15 years | 20 cases

10%
Child Support 10%

15 years | 20 cases

10%
Marriage and Prenuptials 5%

5%

Fees and Rates

We have not found any cost information for this lawyer

Licenses

Licensed in Illinois for 13 years

State: Illinois

Acquired: 2012

Active and Authorized to Practice Law

No misconduct found

Location

Merel Family Law

440 W Randolph Street, 5th Floor, Chicago, IL, 60606

merelfamilylaw.com/

Online Presence

Other places you can find David online.

David Zwaska's Reviews

Avvo Review Score

5.0 /5.0

23 Client Reviews

5 star (23)
4 star (0)
3 star (0)
2 star (0)
1 star (0)

Posted by anonymous | October 7, 2025 | Hired Attorney

This review is from a person who hired this attorney.

Exceptional Legal Team during Divorce

Attorneys David and Colette provided me with exceptional legal representation during a difficult time. Navigating any divorce is never easy, but this legal team made all the difference. Their professionalism, expertise, and dedication exceeded my expectations. David provided clear, strategic guida...nce while always keeping my best interests at the forefront. He approached every aspect of the case with a calm, steady hand and a depth of legal knowledge that inspired confidence. Colette was equally instrumental, from her organization and attention to detail to her responsiveness. It made the entire process feel manageable, even during the most stressful moments. What stood out most was their consistent communication. I never felt in the dark about my case. Whether answering questions, providing updates, or simply offering reassurance, they were always available and quick to respond. They took the time to truly understand my concerns, offering thoughtful solutions and ensuring I felt heard and supported throughout the process. Highly recommend David and Colette to anyone looking for professional, responsive, compassionate, and highly effective legal representation. Thank you!

Posted by Laura | September 25, 2025 | Hired Attorney

This review is from a person who hired this attorney.

Experienced strategic family law attorney

David and Colette were amazing to work with during a very difficult divorce. They were patient, compassionate, and always mindful of my financial situation. With two small children involved, emotions were high, but they guided me through the process with understanding and professionalism. I’m so grat...eful for their support and highly recommend them for family law matters.

Posted by Kathleen | July 19, 2025 | Hired Attorney

This review is from a person who hired this attorney.

Post Decree Defendant

David Zwaska and his associate Laude Hartrum worked together to fight a post-decree petition from my ex-husband when other attorneys had told me it was a case I couldn’t win. I am a Chicago native, who now lives in Arizona, and my case was in Will County. Though I’m sure working outside one’s home co...unty can bring potential challenges for an attorney, David handled my case and all those involved in my case with finesse and creative expertise as Laude continuously pieced together the information I could provide and communicated with me to prepare for hearings. The turning points in my case were navigated with ingenuity and professional prowess. Both Laude and David have wisdom and experience in family law and have a confident energy and an empathetic ear. Because their presence is not intimidating in a world of litigation that is, communication is more effective and comfortable. After 13 months, they were able to prove that I was in the right and did not owe any of the maintenance I was accused of owing, and now I can close that chapter of my life forever. I highly recommend both David and Laude as a legal team who will respect you as a client and strategize in creative ways to achieve your goals. -Kathleen

Posted by anonymous | May 14, 2025 | Hired Attorney

This review is from a person who hired this attorney.

Family Law and Divorce

Words can’t express how thankful I was to be referred to Merel Family Law. The quality of legal representation I received from the entire firm and in particular David Zwaska and Laude Hartrum far exceeded my expectations. Divorce is mentally draining and can be dragged out for years with the wron...g attorneys. This was not the case with David and Laude. The level of communication, responsiveness and attention to detail throughout the entire process was great. They were quick to address any concerns I had, worked around my schedule to schedule meetings and took the time to explain my options clearly. After every meeting we had a clear plan. David and Laude's level of expertise in navigating the delicate nature of family law and high asset divorce was evident. They understood my social situation, worked with opposing counsel to ensure that my concerns were addressed and negotiated a fair and safe parenting plan while ensuring my financial stability. They had my family's best interests in mind throughout the entire process. David and Laude, thank you for helping me through one of the most difficult periods of my life.

Posted by Scott M | March 25, 2025 | Hired Attorney

This review is from a person who hired this attorney.

Post-Decree Modification

I had the privilege of working with David Zwaska and Colette Gallo, and I can confidently say their legal representation exceeded my expectations. David's expertise and strategic approach, combined with Colette's diligence and attention to detail, ensured that my case was handled with the utmost prof...essionalism and care. From the start, communication was seamless—both David and Colette were highly responsive, keeping me informed and on my toes throughout the process. They took the time to address my concerns, explain my options clearly, and make sure I felt confident in every decision. Most importantly, I truly felt that my best interests were their top priority. They provided invaluable guidance in navigating changes related to income and circumstances, ensuring that everything was handled fairly and in alignment with my needs. Their expertise and dedication made a difficult situation much more manageable. If you're looking for a legal team that is knowledgeable, responsive, and genuinely invested in your success, I highly recommend David Zwaska and Colette Gallo.

See All Client Reviews

David Zwaska's Lawyer Endorsements

Endorse David
Gabriela O. Asrow headshot
Gabriela Asrow

Family lawyer | Jul 13

Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

"David is courteous and professional, a great advocate for his clients, and well-versed in the law. It is always a pleasure to have David as my opposing counsel on matters. I endorse this lawyer."

Joseph Ronald Napoli II headshot
Joseph Napoli

Unknown lawyer | Jul 28

Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

"I endorse this lawyer."

Jonathan Brian Merel headshot
Jonathan Merel

Family lawyer | Jul 26

Relationship: Worked together on matter

"I have had to opportunity to work with David on several matters. David is a zealous advocate for his clients and has a wonderful skill set and great knowledge of the law. He was a pleasure to work with."

James Thomas Keleher headshot
James Keleher

Family lawyer | Jul 25

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I've worked with David on a number of cases, and he's an excellent attorney. He's bright, well-prepared, and easy to work with while still strongly advocating for his clients. I highly recommend, David."

Patrick Byron Markey headshot
Patrick Markey

Divorce and separation lawyer | Jul 25

Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

"I endorse David. He practices family the right way."

Robert B Buchanan headshot
Robert Buchanan

Divorce and separation lawyer | Aug 16

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Mr. Zwaska is a compassionate and smart advocate who knows how to achieve the best result possible. I endorse him without hesitation."

Jordan M. Sartell headshot
Jordan Sartell

Divorce and separation lawyer | Feb 24

Relationship: Friend

"I endorse this lawyer."

Jennifer A. Schuster headshot
Jennifer Schuster

Family lawyer | Jan 15

Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

"I had a case against David where there was a lot of hostility between the parties but David brought diplomacy and professionalism to the case. He is a creative problem-solver when it comes to settlement and a worthy opponent in the courtroom."

Kelly Lynne Petersen headshot
Kelly Petersen

Divorce and separation lawyer | Mar 19

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. David has extensive knowledge of family law and is a zealous advocate for his clients."

Brian William Reidy headshot
Brian Reidy

Unknown lawyer | Jan 27

Relationship: Co-worker

"I endorse this lawyer."

View All Endorsements
Colette Gallo headshot
Colette Gallo

Family lawyer

Robert B Buchanan headshot
Robert Buchanan

Family lawyer

Jennifer A. Schuster headshot
Jennifer Schuster

Divorce and separation lawyer

Experience

Rating:  10.0 (Superb)

Honors

2024

Leading Lawyer, Illinois Leading Lawyer Network

2022

Rising Star, Super Lawyers

2021

Rising Star, Super Lawyers

2012

Chancellor’s Award for Service, DePaul University College of Law

2012

Senior Service Award, DePaul University College of Law

Work Experience

2016 - Present

Attorney, Dussias Skallas Wittenberg LLP

2015 - 2016

Attorney, Grunyk & Associates, P.C.

2013 - 2015

Attorney, LeVine, Wittenberg, Shugan, & Schatz, Ltd.

2012 - 2012

Law Clerk to Honorable Raul Vega, Domestic Relations Division, Cook County

Associations

2012 - Present

Young Professionals Board of Illinois Legal Aid Online

Membership Committee Co-Chair

Sample of Legal Cases

In re Marriage of Turk, 2014 IL 116730

Reversed and remanded

See More Legal Cases

Education

2012

DePaul University College of Law

JD - Juris Doctor

Speaking Engagements

2025

Association for Continuing Legal Education

Live Web: 40 Hour Family And Divorce Mediation Training Fall 2024-September 5 2024

2016

DePaul Family Law Center

Family Law Practice Panel

Publications

2015

Dupage County Bar Association Family Law Case Updates

2015

Dupage County Bar Association Family Law Updates

Languages

English

Avvo Rating

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Avvo Rating Levels
10.0 - 9.0 Superb8.9 - 8.0 Excellent7.9 - 7.0 Very Good6.9 - 6.0 Good5.9 - 5.0 Average4.9 - 4.0 Concern3.9 - 3.0 Caution2.9 - 2.0 Strong Caution1.9 - 1.0 Extreme Caution