Jennifer R. Ward is the founder and lead attorney of Ward Family Law, LLC. With decades of experience in Illinois family law, Jennifer has built a reputation as one of the most skilled and client-focused divorce attorneys in Chicago. She is known for her strategic approach, thorough preparation, and genuine advocacy for each client's goals.
Call Us Today: (312) 803-5838
Jennifer R. Ward
Jennifer R. Ward, Esquire Trusted Chicago Matrimonial & Family Law Attorney
FAX: (312) 803-5839
EMAIL: [email protected]
Jennifer R. Ward, Esquire is the Founder of WARD FAMILY LAW, LLC and has exclusively practiced in the divorce and family law field for over 20 years. Furthermore, Ms. Ward is an Adjunct Professor at University of Illinois – Chicago School of Law (formerly known as The John Marshall Law School), teaching family law legal drafting to law students and has done so since 2005. U.S. News and World Report 2020 Specialty Rankings listed University of Illinois – Chicago School of Law (formerly known as The John Marshall Law School)’s Legal Writing program #7 in the Country. Ms. Ward also had the honor of speaking on an exclusive panel at the “Leaving a Long-Term Marriage” workshop produced by The Lilac Tree, an Evanston-based not-for-profit resource for women contemplating divorce. She has also provided a matrimonial-related lecture series at The Latin School of Chicago Adult Education Program and, on more than one occasion, has lent her commentary to Chicago Tribune-related publications on family law articles and topics of interest. Ms. Ward’s extensive classroom, lecturing, publishing, and courtroom experience provides clients with well-rounded representation, including finesse at settlement negotiation, precise drafting skills, and litigation expertise.
Ms. Ward graduated from the University of Missouri – Columbia with a Journalism degree, then proceeded to attend law school at University of Illinois – Chicago School of Law (formerly known as The John Marshall Law School) of Chicago, receiving her J.D. and admission to the Illinois Bar. In law school, Ms. Ward participated in a Moot Court Interscholastic Team Competition, was Vice President of the Student Bar Association, a Moot Court Council Member and Student Ambassador. Ms. Ward was a Young Alumni Council member at University of Illinois – Chicago School of Law (formerly known as The John Marshall Law School) and was the Co-Chair of the Summer 2008 Social Event. Ms. Ward also co-founded the Ward Toy Scholars, which raised money for inner-city school reading incentives.
Ms. Ward graduated from the University of Missouri – Columbia with a Journalism degree, then proceeded to attend law school at University of Illinois – Chicago School of Law (formerly known as The John Marshall Law School) of Chicago, receiving her J.D. and admission to the Illinois Bar. In law school, Ms. Ward participated in a Moot Court Interscholastic Team Competition, was Vice President of the Student Bar Association, a Moot Court Council Member and Student Ambassador. Ms. Ward was a Young Alumni Council member at University of Illinois – Chicago School of Law (formerly known as The John Marshall Law School) and was the Co-Chair of the Summer 2008 Social Event. Ms. Ward also co-founded the Ward Toy Scholars, which raised money for inner-city school reading incentives.
Credentials
- Bar admission: Illinois, 2002
- Courts: Cook County Domestic Relations Division
- Teaching: Adjunct Professor, University of Illinois Chicago School of Law (formerly The John Marshall Law School), since 2005
- Speaking and commentary: Panel speaker at the “Leaving a Long-Term Marriage” workshop produced by The Lilac Tree, an Evanston-based not-for-profit resource for women contemplating divorce; founder of a matrimonial lecture series at The Latin School of Chicago Adult Education Program; ongoing family law commentary for Chicago Tribune-related publications
Practice areas
- Dissolution of Marriage, commonly known as divorce
- Dissolution of Civil Union (Civil Union Act)
- Child Support and Parental Responsibilities (decision making and parenting time)
- Paternity Cases
- Maintenance, commonly known as alimony or spousal support
- Marital Settlement Agreements
- Division and valuation of marital and non-marital property
- Financial discovery
- Drafting and analysis of pre-nuptial and post-nuptial agreements
- Enforcement of Judgment for Dissolution of Marriage (post-decree issues and cases)
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of cases does Jennifer R. Ward personally handle?
Jennifer handles all areas of Illinois family law, including divorce, child custody, spousal maintenance, property division, high-net-worth divorce, business owner divorce, prenuptial agreements, paternity cases, and post-decree modifications. She is personally involved in strategy development and court appearances for every client she represents.
What is Jennifer's philosophy when representing divorce clients?
Jennifer's approach centers on understanding each client's unique goals — not just legal outcomes, but real-life priorities such as protecting the children, preserving a business, or minimizing conflict. She combines honest, clear communication with aggressive advocacy, ensuring clients are always informed and never surprised.
Does Jennifer R. Ward handle custody cases in addition to divorce?
Yes. Custody and parental rights are among the most sensitive aspects of family law, and Jennifer brings particular skill and care to these matters. She advocates strongly for parenting arrangements that reflect the client's relationship with their children and serve the children's best interests under Illinois law.
Has Jennifer R. Ward handled high-profile or complex divorce cases?
Yes. Jennifer has extensive experience with high-net-worth divorce cases involving significant business interests, investment portfolios, executive compensation, and real estate holdings. She has worked alongside forensic accountants and business valuators on numerous complex asset cases throughout her career.
What do clients say about working with Jennifer R. Ward?
Clients consistently describe Jennifer as responsive, knowledgeable, and genuinely invested in their outcomes. Reviews highlight her ability to manage stressful situations with calm professionalism, her clear communication style, and her skill in achieving settlements and trial results that clients describe as exceeding their expectations.
What areas of Illinois does Jennifer R. Ward practice in?
Jennifer practices throughout the City of Chicago and the surrounding metropolitan area, including Cook County, DuPage County, Lake County, Will County, and Kane County. She appears regularly in the Cook County Domestic Relations Division and in surrounding county courts.
Is Jennifer R. Ward available for new client consultations?
Yes. Jennifer personally participates in consultations for new clients to ensure the initial assessment is accurate and that the recommended strategy aligns with the client's real situation. Call (312) 803-5838 or use the website contact form to schedule your free consultation.
How long has Jennifer R. Ward been practicing family law in Chicago?
Jennifer has dedicated her entire legal career to family law and has been practicing in the Chicago area for decades. This long-term dedication to a single practice area has produced deep expertise, strong professional relationships, and a nuanced understanding of how Cook County courts approach family law matters.
What sets Jennifer R. Ward apart from other Chicago divorce attorneys?
Jennifer's exclusive focus on family law, her personal involvement in every case, her willingness to engage in complex financial litigation, and her client-first communication style set her apart. She gives clients honest assessments rather than easy answers, which leads to better-informed decisions and more realistic expectations.
We’re Helping Real People Solve Real Problems Everyday
This Law firm was excellent with communication and follow through, compassionate to my very unique situation and ultimately GOT THE JOB DONE! Thanks to Jennifer Ward you are appreciated! Continued success to you!
Edward A.
Jennifer was absolutely stellar. They helped me navigate a difficult divorce & assisted in managing reduction in further traumatic interactions with the Ex. I am so grateful for her guidance & support!
Brittney C.
I do not tend to write many reviews but I know that when something works you need to pass it along. This team works. For you. For your kids.
Ramesh G.
They are highly skilled at both negotiation and litigation - we were able to settle the financials but had to litigate the kid issues - Jennifer always put my interests first.
Jitendra K.
I'm grateful for the dedication during my child support case. They provided me with the guidance I needed to get me to the end.
Vikas C.
I'm grateful!! Unmatched support and guidance from start to finish in modifying an old child support order.
Oluwafemi O.
Five stars! Jennifer was responsive, knowledgeable, and supportive throughout my divorce proceedings.
Koby B.
Choosing Ward Family Law was the best decision I made during my paternity case. Their dedication to achieving the best outcome for their clients and the kids is unmatched.
B. M.
A big thank you!! The dedication and professionalism throughout my divorce proceedings - truly grateful. I couldn't have asked for a better legal team.
Carlos B.
I appreciated the attention to detail and commitment to achieving the best possible outcome in my case. Highly recommended!
Lionel C.
Protecting your relationship with your children is one of our top priorities. As a trusted child custody attorney Chicago families rely on, Ward Family Law negotiates and litigates parenting plans, parental decision-making, and parenting time schedules that put your children’s best interests first.
Our dedicated team of lawyers, paralegals, and staff provides reliable guidance and support
every step of the way.
Phone
(312) 803-5838
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