Your Merel Family Law, is dedicated to offering professional, reputable, and approachable counsel in all areas of family law. Since 2009, we have represented families across the Chicagoland and Detroit areas, guiding them through some of lifes most important legal transitions. Our practice is defined not only by the services we provide but also by our method of delivery, which emphasizes diligence, communication, and strategic legal planning.
Our legal services include divorce representation, child custody disputes, alimony matters, and LGBTQ family law. Led by founder Jonathan Merel and supported by a team of skilled attorneys and partners, we develop individualized approaches for each client. We assist with settlement negotiations, property division agreements, and representation in mediation, arbitration, or litigation as necessary. Because Illinois applies equitable distribution principles, we carefully evaluate marital estates and collaborate with financial professionals when appropriate. When children are involved, we focus on creating custody and parenting plans that serve their best interests, while remaining available for modifications as circumstances change over time.
Our legal services include divorce representation, child custody disputes, alimony matters, and LGBTQ family law. Led by founder Jonathan Merel and supported by a team of skilled attorneys and partners, we develop individualized approaches for each client. We assist with settlement negotiations, property division agreements, and representation in mediation, arbitration, or litigation as necessary. Because Illinois applies equitable distribution principles, we carefully evaluate marital estates and collaborate with financial professionals when appropriate. When children are involved, we focus on creating custody and parenting plans that serve their best interests, while remaining available for modifications as circumstances change over time.
Served areas
- Chicago, IL
Details
- Year established: 2009
Highlights and features
- Providing trusted family law services since 2009 across Illinois
- Experienced divorce, custody, and alimony legal representation services
- Four office locations serving Chicago and Detroit areas
- Over six thousand clients served with dedication since establishment
- Twenty-one attorneys providing compassionate legal guidance to families
- Specializing in divorce mediation custody and asset division
Payment methods
- Cash
- Debit cards
- Credit cards
Services
We provide client-centered family law services designed to address complex and sensitive legal issues with care and professionalism. Our attorneys bring extensive experience and a strong commitment to protecting client interests. We prioritize clear communication, thorough preparation, and effective advocacy to support clients as they navigate challenging family law matters through every stage of the process. 
We provide professional, reputable, and approachable legal counsel for individuals navigating divorce. Our experienced attorneys guide clients through each stage of the process, from initial consultation to resolution. We focus on clarity, fairness, and strong advocacy, helping clients manage complex legal matters while working toward a stable and informed future. 
We deliver client-focused representation in complex alimony disputes, including high-net-worth matters and cases involving prenuptial or postnuptial terms. Our team prioritizes practical solutions while preparing for litigation when necessary. We strive to safeguard financial interests and reduce unnecessary court conflict through strategic planning and experienced legal counsel and optimal client outcomes in every matter handled. 
We provide child custody legal services focused on protecting parental rights and childrens well-being. Our attorneys have over 20 years of family law experience and offer clear guidance throughout every stage. We prioritize direct communication and tailored strategies for custody, visitation, and parenting plans. Clients receive committed representation aimed at safeguarding interests and supporting stable family outcomes. 
We provide professional representation in property division matters arising from divorce. In Illinois, marital assets and debts are divided through equitable distribution rather than equal division. Our attorneys focus on protecting your financial interests and guiding you through complex asset classification. We work to achieve fair outcomes while minimizing unnecessary litigation and stress throughout proceedings. 
We manage the prenuptial agreement process through coordinated attorney involvement, where one attorney drafts and the other reviews and negotiates terms. We facilitate full financial disclosure between parties to support enforceability. This structured approach ensures both clients are represented fairly and that the final agreement reflects transparent and well-documented discussions throughout the process. People
Jonathan Merel
Founder and Managing Principal
Jonathan Merel is an experienced attorney who advocates for his clients in all divorce and family law proceedings, including settlement negotiations and trials. Jonathan founded Merel Family Law in early 2009 after working for many years at another family law firm in Chicago. Through his hard work and unwavering dedication to his clients, Jonathan has quickly grown the firm to become one of the premier divorce and family law firms in the Chicagoland area.
Melissa Caballero Dunn
Managing Partner
Reviews (15)
Tana S.
Mar 30, 2026
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Melissa Caballero and Mitchell Dean have been my attorneys during an unexpectedly difficult child support case. It was a very stressful experience but they guided me through every step of the way. They made the process clear-cut and fought for me to get the best possible outcome and we won! I am so relieved and elated to get on with my life. It is a dream come true. Thank you Melissa, Mitchell and Merel Law Group for being knowledgeable, responsive and professional.
Bethany Witt
Apr 14, 2025
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I have been very satisfied with my experience with Merel Family Law. Bradley Kaye handled my second go around in family court with my child's father. Every time that I speak to him, Brad is professional, direct, thorough and supportive. I appreciate how well he explains a process or nuance of the law I don't understand. He lays out options and suggestions based on my situation in a way that makes me feel heard - without sugar coating the tough decisions or making false promises.
My child's father and I completed family court with an Agreed Order that was much better than I ever expected. I still utilize Brad's services to help navigate disputes and decisions even though our time in court is complete. It is a comfort to know that his support and expertise is there when I need it.
My child's father and I completed family court with an Agreed Order that was much better than I ever expected. I still utilize Brad's services to help navigate disputes and decisions even though our time in court is complete. It is a comfort to know that his support and expertise is there when I need it.
Tina Lee
Feb 02, 2025
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Melissa Canallero Dunn is a fantastic lawyer. She approached my case with logical thinking, compassion, and a commitment to seeking justice. My ex-husband petitioned me in court for what I think is a trivial matter. Even so, she is clearly dedicated to her clients, available to answer my questions, provide guidance, and reassurance (especially for divorce issues!). Her empathy and compassion made a challenging time more manageable. I appreciate her reasoning for arguing my case; she constructs clear arguments and has great attention to detail. I hired Melissa and am happy with my decision given her skills, tenacity, and dedication.
Chris Minassian
Oct 19, 2024
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I retained David Zwaska to represent me twice in recent years, both times with very good and fair results. Between David and Colette, any inquires I had were addressed in a timely and complete fashion. They helped guide me through a complicated divorce (29 years of marriage with a special needs adult child), ensuring that all the important points were properly addressed. I left each discussion with a clear understanding of any question I had, and was able to rationally weigh the pros and cons of each.
In the other matter, they were able to help me secure the proper resources to help validate and document my concerns. Through their guidance and help, we successfully gained the results I was seeking.
I have in the past recommended them to people I know and will continue to do so in the future.
In the other matter, they were able to help me secure the proper resources to help validate and document my concerns. Through their guidance and help, we successfully gained the results I was seeking.
I have in the past recommended them to people I know and will continue to do so in the future.
Ashley Zachery
Oct 09, 2024
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Jaclyn has been my attorney for my divorce as well as my year long custody battle. She was great at keeping me well informed of all possible scenarios as well as explaining all the forms and steps taking place. Jaclyn knew what was in the best interest for my child and I. She put up a hard fight when needed to. If any other issues come up in the future I will most definitely be giving her a call again!
Jessica Burnette
Sep 15, 2024
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They were a great firm to work with from start yo finish. First off, my first contact with the office manager, Kirsten McSweeney, was very welcoming. I was able to connect with Jonathan Merel quickly and he was able to provide me with the information on how they could help and how to proceed. My attorney, Marleena Broekema, that I worked with, was awesome, efficient and understanding. She stayed on top of everything and took the time to explain the process. She also listened to my story and took whatever information was going to be crucial in my case to be used for court. She communicated very well! She is a great representation of the firm and family values! They took on a complicated case and made it work together. Thank you!
Sean Helgeland
Mar 08, 2024
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Divorce is a tough process for anyone going through it. I was in need of another attorney after my previous one had left me in a bad spot. Brad and Mitch fit the bill perfectly. They immediately got down to business and seemed ready to go in less than a week. They did not make the same mistakes or let my ex's attorney get away with stuff. Mitch was incredibly knowledgable in helping me understand the process, including parts I did not like. I don't think I could have finished the divorce with anyone else. Highly recommended if you feel you are in a tight spot, or can't get the process moving, these guys are the ones you want!
Michelle Thornton
Nov 02, 2023
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There arent enough supportive things that I can say about working with Madelyn King. She is a phenomenal attorney. Her knowledge and application of family law always made me feel like I was in good hands. Madelyn also has excellent communication skills and took the time to help me understand legal complexities in a straightforward, patient manner. Watching Madelyn in court was also an experienceI marveled at her ability to assertively and effectively present our case.
In addition to her professional prowess, Madelyns ability to connect with me personally made me feel seen, heard, and supported in difficult times. She made sure to keep me looped into the movement of things and offered supportive feedback when I needed it.
All of these qualities and experiences come together to create a safe, productive experience when working with Madelyn King. I could not recommend her enough!
In addition to her professional prowess, Madelyns ability to connect with me personally made me feel seen, heard, and supported in difficult times. She made sure to keep me looped into the movement of things and offered supportive feedback when I needed it.
All of these qualities and experiences come together to create a safe, productive experience when working with Madelyn King. I could not recommend her enough!
Richard Smartt
Aug 12, 2023
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My experience at Merel Law was beyond fantastic.
I started the divorce proceedings with very little knowledge of what my rights and responsibilities would be. Josie and Melissa not only guided me through the legal details, but offered wise counsel, and always had my best interests in mind. Who knew that divorce lawyers are also therapists? Highly recommend.
I started the divorce proceedings with very little knowledge of what my rights and responsibilities would be. Josie and Melissa not only guided me through the legal details, but offered wise counsel, and always had my best interests in mind. Who knew that divorce lawyers are also therapists? Highly recommend.
Ghazna Qureshi
Mar 28, 2023
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It was a pleasure having Josie as my attorney for two years. I have never hired a lawyer for anything and this was my very first time and for a very serious cause. Not only was I nervous about the whole situation, I was also very very afraid and was living in fear. The minute Josie was retained she gave me a call and explained everything to me in detail and told me what to expect. Josie was super nice on the phone and made me feel comfortable about the whole situation. Throughout the case, Josie always explained things in detail and never sugar coated anything. It was not all business to her. It was more personal and she really cared about me and the case. This made me feel so secure!
Thanks to Josie and her strong personality justice has been served in my case. Her dedication, hard work and paying attention to detail made this all possible. I cannot thank her enough. She is amazing! Thank you once again!
Thanks to Josie and her strong personality justice has been served in my case. Her dedication, hard work and paying attention to detail made this all possible. I cannot thank her enough. She is amazing! Thank you once again!
Laura Hooper
Dec 28, 2021
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Melissa Caballero and Josephine Norton represented me in my recent divorce. The quality of their representation is impeccable. They truly care and were very comforting and sympathetic. During this transitional time in my life, knowing that I was getting the best legal representation was a huge relief - it allowed me to focus on rebuilding my life instead of worrying about the divorce. I could not imagine better attorneys. I highly recommend using them.
Ebby Lowry
Sep 14, 2020
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When looking for an attorney, I had no idea where to begin, After being recommended to Jonathan Merel, P.C., I reached out to Melissa. From our initial conversation on, Melissa made me feel comfortable, prioritized and informed. It made such a difference in my divorce experience to have a communicate and friendly attorney to help me through every step. I would highly recommend Melissa and am grateful for such a smooth process working with her.
Galina Mironova
Aug 27, 2020
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Josie (my superstar attorney), Jonathan, and their whole team have been as good as can be through the difficult process of my divorce, especially with the pandemic going on at the same time. Josie is knowledgeable, helpful and always comes with good advice. Although we mostly communicated by phone and email due to the covid restrictions, I felt as though we were face to face every time. I am grateful that my divorce came to a successful resolution and I have this wonderful team to thank for it! Special thank you to Josie!
Bridgette Summers
Aug 24, 2020
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Divorce is never an easy experience but with the help of Josephine Norton She made it an easy and smooth process for me. This woman is a firecracker and I mean that in a good way. She has done a fantastic job with all of the paperwork, even the judge applauded her for doing such a good job. She is very honest and straightforward and I love that about her. I cannot thank her enough for what she has done for me. I hope I never have to refer anyone to a divorce lawyer but if I do it will certainly be law offices Jonathan Merel
Monica Garvin
Aug 18, 2020
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I HIGHLY recommend their services. I spoke with numerous firms before I came across the Law offices of Jonathan Merel and nobody made me feel as confident and safe as Melissa did on our first consultation over the phone. Josie Norton took over my case and I cannot rave about her enough!!! She not only kept me in the loop throughout my entire case but she ensured that I was included on every decision made before court. Every email, text message, and phone call was answered promptly and that is so hard to come across. I trusted her with my child and I do not regret that decision whatsoever!!! I reside outside of Illinois and she handled my case entirely without me stepping foot into a court room. I am so thankful to have these women in my corner! Even in the middle of a pandemic they have helped keep my stress as minimal as possible. MELISSA & JOSIE: I CANNOT THANK THE BOTH OF YOU ENOUGH FOR WHAT YOU HAVE DONE FOR MY FAMILY & I!!!!!!!