I had a free consultation with Sean McCumber about what would happen in the event of a disabled family member dying. He answered all my questions and some I hadn't thought to ask. What a great community service, For free no less! Thank you! read more

I hired Monika based on her familiarity with my divorce case and parental allocation judgment, as well as my spousal and child support entitlements. Recently, I found myself involved in a legal matter that was both emotionally and financially draining. My ex- husband falsely accused me of harming my daughter and filed a claim against me with DCFS for child abuse, additionally he filed an emergency motion to modify parental time. Initially, I was advised by one of her associates to agree with OC suggestion by appointing a Guardian ad Litem to proceed with investigation, which I did openly agreed because I had nothing to hide and I wanted to uncover the truth about a difficult situation involving my daughter and how things really transpired. During this process, I was following my case very closely and during my research on previous judgements I discovered inconsistencies that were done in my previous judgment that was handled by another former attorney at the time; so I uncovered new evidence that my ex-husband had not complied with court orders as it was expected at the time, he failed to comply with certain financial obligations specifically from the mandated order. I shared all of these information and provided documentation to prove my statements, I confided all to Monika to bring justice after my daughter's case was properly handled and done to then pursue instructed legal remedies; she was supposed to proceed with the other two specific motions to enforce payment obligations and a motion to vacate last judgement, I even provided the IL civil code and specific statute and subsection with case law samples to serve her that will allow to move the case aside and ask for relief in a form of back payments, initially she stated that we need to filed right away and afterward she stated I did not have basis for it. I disagreed because I clearly show her proof of misapplication of the law based on my allocation judgement and court calculation sheet, I provided newly discovered evidence, and post divorce fraud, etc. I never thought that Monika would be another average attorney that acquired the typical business pattern as others. However, I was disappointed with the way my case was handled. Monika's responses to the OC emergency motion to modify parental time were very generic, often simply denying allegations and requesting proof, despite having provided statements and evidence that supported my position Strongly. For example, my case included the fact that the DCFS investigation determine the accusations against me to be unfounded--information that could have strengthened my case and demonstrated my innocence. I believed it was crucial to include this and other vital facts, such as my role as guardian of my children, but Monika was hesitant, claiming it could harm my case. I strongly disagreed, as I believe transparency and honesty are essential in such situations. To my surprise, Monika filed a motion to withdraw from representing me, stating "irreconcilable differences" which is totally not true, my total bill exceeded $8,000--costs accumulated primarily through email exchanges /communications and the preparation of motions that were never filed But were detailed in my invoice . While I acknowledge her legal experience or trajectory, I felt she did not prioritize my best interests or those of my children. As a client, I believe it's essential to be actively involved and to have control over our own case, providing clear instructions and understanding your rights. This experience has reinforced my belief that the legal system in the U.S. can be complex and must of the time flawed. Some attorneys may prioritize their fees, their business and their colleagues relationships over clients' best interests, and their children; unfortunately, there can be a lack of accountability within the system. Clients need to be proactive--know your rights, ask questions, and take an active role in your case. Be your own advocate, conduct your own research, and ensure your legal representation aligns with your goals. My advice to anyone facing legal issues is to set clear expectations from the beginning, stay involved, and remember that ultimately, you are the owner of your case, you are paying for legal representation and you are in charge of your case, the attorney is there to advise and advocate for the best action to take and explain your options not seeing you as $ sign. We are talking about real people, real children involved in family matter and yet seem like there isn't much to care for but money coming in. Do not rely solely on your attorney; be informed and assertive. The legal process can be challenging, but being proactive can help protect your rights and interests. Aquarius.... Humanitarian and justice seeking advocate. read more

I only had a free consultation here. I have an upcoming case for which I will need a family law attorney. I met with someone who was not listed on their "our team" page. Although he did listen and give basic legal advice, he did not ever, in any way, offer help or any services. It was awkward. Maybe he decided the firm should not represent me for some reason, but I think that could have been stated, instead of leaving me baffled by the whole interaction. read more

I have been a client of Blacha Law for the past year. They guided me through the start and closure of my father-in-laws estate through the probate process. Both Johannah Drerup and attorney Erin O'Connell we're very professional and knowledgable, guiding me through the process. They also responded to my questions in a timely manner. I would recommend Blacha Law and Johannah and Erin in particular to anyone who has similar needs. read more

Thank you for making a difficult time easier. I truly felt they cared about my wellbeing and best interests. They handled my case with professionalism and courtesy. Sarah and Cody answered all my questions and concerns with kindness and compassion. I couldn't be happier with the outcome. Sarah always listened provided extra support during such a strenuous time and I am truly grateful to have had the benefit of your legal expertise, honestly and sincerity. Eileen read more

I used Blacha Law for my divorce and Elizabeth Youakim, who handled my case, did a wonderful job. She was very thorough and easy to work with. I am extremely satisfied with my experience and would highly recommend! read more

Ms. Youakim at Blacha Law office assisted with an issue after the divorce. She kept me updated on the work she was doing and offered helpful dvice. Even though i did not the results I was hoping for, I know she did her best. I highly recommend her. read more

While they seem courteous and an advocate for you, this quickly fades under pressure during a trial and the true capabilities come out, which is not trial law. It is a huge waste of money and unfortunately by the time you find out, you are in the trial and it is too late to change firms. Seek someone else read more

I needed a lawyer to help me with a divorce and saw a number of positive reviews on Blacha law, so I hired them. Monika gave a good impression when I met her so I thought I was in good hands. However, it turned out to be a mistake. There was never a time when she, or anyone in the firm, sat down with me to explain the steps of the process. My (now ex) wife and I had put together a parenting agreement and sent it over to be converted into a contract, but the document left out many of the pieces that we had included in our agreement. The marital settlement agreement had a few significant errors (like the wrong address for the house and my spouse getting my car and I getting hers). And they just didn't move quickly. They always responded quickly to emails, but when I asked them to make corrections to the documents, it took them weeks to get around to it and I had to ask more than once when things would be done. I did not feel like my business was a priority. I ended up switching to a different firm midway through the divorce and was done 6 weeks after the switch. Maybe her firm is a good choice for a different situation, but for an amicable divorce, it was a waste of time and money and a source of extra stress for me. read more

Sean McCuCUMBER is a waste of a lawyer. Wasted my time and money on a divorced. In addition, keep asking for more money or he was going to withdraw from my case. This wannabe judge, keep rambling about adopting more kids and smelling Judges rear in order for him to climb the ladder. In the end, I told the soccer MOM that I was switching firms and was cutting ties with him and his Junky law firm. I don't appreciate my time being wasted and BBB services will be getting a letter soon. Don"t pick this law firm at all and BEWARE. read more

I hired Erika Essa from the Blacha Law Firm to represent me in a child parenting case. From the onset of her taking over she was honest, diligent, and provided extensive knowledge to support me in making the best decision for my child. Erika was very responsive in her communication; She was persistent in ensuring as a parent my voice was heard and my concerns addressed. I can't thank Erika enough for her diligence, persistence, honesty and most importantly the care and concern she displayed toward my case. Thank You, Erika and the Blacha Law Firm! read more

Erika and Mary Kay from Blacha law office was there for me every step of the way!! In helping me get my the parenting times I needs for my son that I rightly deserve to have as a father!! Also was understanding and delicate with me threw out the whole time even went things felt like the world was rough... thank you so much Blacha law office!! read more

DON'T HIRE THIS FIRM. I tried hiring them recently for my uncontested divorce and my case was passed through a plethora of paralegals and never knew who I was supposed to talk to. I never even got to speak with my attorney when I asked to. Aside from that, when I asked them to withdraw from my case, I waited MONTHS to get my trust refund check back. They always gave me the run around whenever I tried calling and asking when I can get my money back. Always a different "manager" or "billing department" person as well. Very unprofessional, very overpriced, and inconsistent. read more

Very disorganized group. You get bounced around from assistant to assistant. Spent countless hours revisiting the same information over and over which ultimately lost me time and money. Don't do it. read more

I am pleased to have worked with Blacha law. The staff is amazing and I think they are just great people. I felt supported all the way in my divorce process. Erin and EJ have supported me every step of the way. I want to say "thank you". If you are looking for a supportive community in this process Blacha is the place to go. read more

Meeting Hannah for the first time lifted a huge weight off my shoulder. She made me feel safe and welcome when listening to the issues that I was dealing with. She is very compassionate, patient and caring. She guided me through my divorce process and made sure I got the best of what I need. She even answered my emails over the weekend. I am very grateful for her effort and dedication to my case. It has been a stressful journey, but Hannah got me though the divorce quickly. I would not have gotten this far without her knowledge and expertise to get this divorce processed in a matter of few months. read more

Monika Blacha and her team are the best. They helped me with my case and thanks to them I got the out come I wanted.

I could not be happier with the services provided by Hannah and her team. Hannah is not only a very competent attorney, she also genuinely cares about her clients and it shows in her work and results. Hannah is extremely passionate about her work and it is evident in how she goes above and beyond to serve her clients' and their families' best interests. You can tell that she truly cares about each individual case. Hannah is very result driven and no nonsense while also a realist when it comes to letting you know what is feasible and what is not rather than just billing you countless hours to chase a pipe dream. Very responsive and understanding of the stress that legal proceedings put on her clients emotionally and financially. For the first time ever, I can truly say that I feel that the money I spent on legal representation were well spent and me and my children are better off due to the outcomes that Hannah helped achieve. All around, Hannah was a pleasure to deal with, as much as any litigation can be considered a pleasure, and she provided exactly what she said she would. Hannah acted 100% in he best interest of my children and myself. Billing procedures were stated up front and there were never any of the usual incidents of unreasonable billing what so ever. So refreshing to not have to look for $75.00 "respond to email" charges etc on monthly statement and fully trusting that you were actually paying for legal work and not just "padding" on a statement. This is the first time that I have retained legal services and not walked away with a scummy taste in my mouth and it is truly due to Hannah and her staff being a competent team that truly cares about their clients and will fight for them as well. Cannot express how much of a blessing Hannah and her team have been and I highly recommend them to anyone being in needing family law representation. read more