Family Law Representation Personalized For You

Highly Skilled Family Law Advocates Who Truly Care

A Unique Perspective in Family Law

Every family is different. That is why at Caesar & Bender, we start by listening. We want to understand your story, your priorities, and what stability means for you and your family, not just today, but long term.

Our team draws on nearly 50 years of combined experience handling divorce and family law cases in Chicago and the surrounding areas. We use that knowledge to build a plan that fits your life and your goals.

With a background in psychology and social work, founding partner, Molly Caesar, has a unique understanding of the complex emotions involved and the dynamics specific to your situation. This perspective helps to obtain customized resolutions that will support your family moving forward, whether through negotiation or in court.

Founding partner, Michael Ian Bender, a former Domestic Relations Judge, draws upon his vast experience to efficiently guide you through the family law process.
Bottom line: We combine legal skill with a real understanding of people. We are here to guide you every step of the way.

Nearly 50 Years of Combined Family Law Experience

Our longevity offers a well-rounded view of family law. Attorney Bender has practiced since the early 1990s, and Attorney Caesar’s distinguished trial and appellate work has earned repeated recognition in Super Lawyers and similar peer-review listings. We address both routine and high-stakes disputes with confidence.

We prepare every matter with precise financial analysis and child-centered proposals that protect what matters most. When you are going through a family law issue, you want a team that understands the law and people. Our attorneys have been working in family law for decades and have extensive experience handling straightforward cases to the most complex, high conflict situations.

If you are ready to take the next step, call (312) 236-1500 or reach out online. Your consultation is confidential and we are here to listen.

A Unique Perspective in Family Law

If we take your case, it is because we believe in it

Trusted by Attorneys for Divorce & Custody

I served as a witness in a friend’s parentage case. I am an attorney myself. My friend has been needlessly dragged through Court for 4 years at this time. In that period, I have witnessed him seek counsel from other less professional and qualified…

Joe Kramer

Genuine, Deeply Felt Passion for Justice

We focus on every detail because we know that details can pivot a case

Chicago Family Law Attorney

If you are facing divorce or major changes to your family, you are probably feeling overwhelmed, uncertain, and maybe even scared. That is completely normal. Right now, you need more than just a lawyer, you need someone who listens, understands, and helps you make smart, steady decisions during a really difficult time in your life.

At Caesar & Bender, Chicago family law attorneys, we are here to help you protect what matters most. Whether that means securing the right financial outcome, creating a parenting plan that puts your children first, or simply making sense of the legal proceedings, we are by your side every step of the way.

Understanding that this is personal, we take the time to understand your goals and what is most important to you. If good faith negotiation is possible, we will guide you through it. Regardless, we are prepared to go to court and advocate for you and your family..

You do not have to figure this out alone. Call us at (312) 236-1500 for a free consultation. We will talk through your options and help you move forward with confidence and clarity.

Steady Guidance Through a Long, Difficult Divorce

Molly Caesar was an excellent attorney, a voice of reason, and a great support during my very drawn-out, traumatic divorce. She kept me sane and the divorce moving forward. Her experience and knowledge of the process were indispensable…

Sarah Halverson

Practice Areas

Family Law

Child-Related Legal Issues

Divorce

young-child-suffering-from-parent-abuse-home

Domestic Violence

Embryo Disputes

Alternative Dispute Resolution

Orders Of Protection

Prenuptial Agreements

Highly Skilled Family Law Advocates Who Truly Care

Bespoke strategy for every client, every family, every case

Guiding You Through Divorce

Divorce in Illinois involves more than ending a marriage. It reshapes property ownership, financial obligations, and parental roles. We guide our clients through this legal process with clarity and strategic planning that reflects their goals and circumstances.

Uncontested vs. Contested Divorce Solutions

In Illinois, the approach a couple takes to divorce, be it uncontested or contested, affects the timing, cost, and level of court oversight. Both paths terminate the marriage under Illinois’ no-fault system (irreconcilable differences), but differ in how terms are reached and finalized.

Uncontested Divorce

An uncontested divorce occurs when spouses agree on all key matters, such as asset and debt division, parenting time, child support, and spousal maintenance, and jointly present a Marital Settlement Agreement. The agreement must be adequate and cover all legal requirements. Once filed with the court, the matter typically proceeds through a straightforward process, often culminating in a final decree in approximately 60 days, depending on court workload.

A streamlined version called “joint simplified dissolution” is available for couples without children or complex assets. It requires residency, limited property, waived spousal maintenance, and a written agreement resolving all issues. This option minimizes court time and paperwork. Our team can assist in drafting clear settlement agreements that comply with the Illinois Marriage and Dissolution of Marriage Act, helping clients formalize their arrangements with minimal court involvement.

Contested Divorce

A contested divorce arises when spouses disagree on one or more significant issues, requiring court intervention. Disputed areas might include child custody, support levels, division of assets, or spousal maintenance.

The process is more formal and often lengthy. It includes filings and responses, temporary orders, discovery, pretrial conferences, and potentially a full trial. The court ultimately resolves unresolved matters. Contested divorces can take a year or longer to conclude and involve greater legal fees due to the number of hearings and required advocacy.

We prepare every contested case with detailed financial analysis, witness preparation, and appropriate filings to present a strong case in court. Whether a matter proceeds to trial or resolves at a pretrial conference, we prioritize efficient advocacy while protecting our client’s interests.

High-Asset Divorce Planning & Litigation

Divorces involving substantial income, business interests, or real estate require careful planning to comply with Illinois law. Our team collaborates with appraisers, forensic accountants, and financial advisors to identify and value complicated and extensive marital estates. We address the division of retirement accounts, stock portfolios, closely held companies, and real property with an eye toward equitable division and tax implications.

When one spouse attempts to conceal or undervalue assets, we pursue discovery aggressively to bring accurate valuations before the judge. Our litigation style balances assertiveness with professionalism, and we adapt each strategy to the financial and relational realities of the case.

Every divorce shapes both present stability and future direction. At Caesar & Bender, LLP, we support clients who seek amicable resolutions and those preparing for contested hearings, applying seasoned litigation insight and courtroom readiness to each case.

If you’re planning a cooperative divorce or preparing for disputes ahead, call us at (312) 236-1500 for a complimentary consultation and begin crafting a clear path forward in Chicago divorce proceedings.

Responsive Counsel: Every Call Answered, Every Concern Addressed

Mr Bender navigated a Child Custody case for us with Honor and Fairness. Mr Bender prioritized the well being of his Client with Compassion. Bender Law Firm was very professional. Mr Bender and Staff always called back and answered every…

Daniel Vaci

Top-Rated Chicago Family Law Attorneys - Caesar & Bender, LLP

Michael Ian Bender

Michael Ian Bender brings decades of distinguished service to his role as co-founder of Caesar & Bender, LLP. Before establishing the firm with attorney Molly E. Caesar, he served as a Circuit Court of Cook County Domestic Relations Judge, presiding over more than 40,000 family law proceedings. His judicial career and dedication to public service have been widely recognized, reflecting his lifelong mission to protect children and support families during times of transition.

Judge Bender has also contributed to the legal community as a published author, lecturer, and civic leader. His book, Protecting Children: Bettering the World One Child at a Time, draws from his judicial experience to guide parents, lawyers, and judges in minimizing the impact of family conflict on children. A recipient of honors such as Leading Lawyers and Best Lawyers in America, he has also been featured on national media outlets including ABC 7 Chicago, Fox 32, WGN Radio, and the Chicago Tribune. His record of leadership extends beyond the courtroom, with roles in the Illinois Holocaust Museum and Education Center, the Decalogue Society of Lawyers, and the Skokie Park District.

Molly E. Caesar

Molly E. Caesar is a Chicago family law attorney and co-founder of Caesar & Bender, LLP. She has built a reputation for exceptional advocacy, combining litigation and transactional experience with a client-focused approach. Her dedication has been recognized nationally with honors from Super Lawyers, The American Institute of Family Law Attorneys, and U.S. News & World Report. Molly’s firm has also been named among the Best Law Firms in Illinois and celebrated for its outstanding client service.

Beyond her practice, Molly serves as an adjunct professor at DePaul University College of Law, where she also sits on the Family Law Advisory Board. A summa cum laude graduate of DePaul and Order of the Coif inductee, she received multiple CALI Awards for Excellence during law school. Her leadership includes serving as president of the North Suburban Bar Association, and her contributions to family law have been recognized with honors such as “Top 10 Under 40” and “Who’s Who in America.”

Bespoke Representation in Family Law

Nearly 50 Years Combined Family Law Experience

Honest. Organized. Above & Beyond

The most skilled, organized, HONEST and above board firm and team of SEASONED, Caring ABOVE AND BEYOND group of Earth 🌎 Bound Angels 😇 that we were Blessed to find. Having to deal with a Narcissist who only cares about the ” Fight…

Cathy Cureton

Dedicated to Complex Family Law Situations

Nearly 50 Years Combined Family Law Experience

Child Custody & Support Advocacy

Illinois law focuses on allocating parental responsibilities and parenting time to serve the child’s best interest. Our role is to craft realistic parenting plans, resolve disputes over relocation or visitation, and secure fair financial support, all aligned with Illinois statutes and case law.

Designing Practical Parenting Plans

Parenting plans in Illinois must address a variety of issues, including parenting time schedules, transportation responsibilities, communication protocols, and decision-making rights. We develop clear and balanced plans that reflect the realities of daily life, school calendars, and each parent’s availability. We can help ensure that parenting plans comply with the Illinois Marriage and Dissolution of Marriage Act and are structured to reduce future conflict.

Each family brings unique routines and needs, which is why we tailor proposals that support consistency for the children and flexibility for the parents. We also address provisions related to holidays, travel, and dispute resolution to make the plan more sustainable over time.

Litigating Relocation & Visitation Disputes

Relocation cases often arise when a parent seeks to move a child beyond the permissible distance allowed under Illinois law. The relocating parent must meet statutory requirements and show how the move aligns with the child’s best interests. We prepare evidence and testimony that addresses educational opportunities, parental involvement, and the proposed parenting time adjustments.

In cases involving visitation disputes, we advocate for fair and enforceable orders. If access is denied or restricted without justification, we pursue remedies that protect the rights of both the parent and the child.

Calculating & Modifying Child Support

Illinois uses an income-shares model to calculate child support, which considers both parents’ incomes, the number of children, and the amount of time each parent spends with them. We conduct a detailed review of financial documents to reach accurate support calculations that reflect statutory guidelines and any applicable deviations.

When circumstances change, such as a job loss, new expenses, or a shift in parenting time, we guide clients through the process of filing for a modification. Our goal is to present a complete and credible request that aligns with current legal standards and financial realities.

Enforcing Custody & Support Orders

Enforcement becomes necessary when one parent fails to comply with court orders regarding parenting time or financial support. Illinois courts provide mechanisms to address noncompliance, including contempt proceedings, wage garnishment, and suspension of licenses.

We file appropriate motions and represent clients in hearings that seek compliance, compensation for missed parenting time, or payment of overdue support. Our approach aims to restore balance while protecting the child’s routine and the other parent’s rights.

If your family is facing decisions about parenting time, parental responsibilities, or financial support, we are here to help you move forward with clarity and purpose. At Caesar & Bender, LLP, we approach each case with thoughtful planning, courtroom readiness, and genuine care for the children and families we represent.

Call (312) 236-1500 to speak with a Chicago family law attorney who can guide you through the next steps with focus and steady support.

Fast Action. Fair Outcome.

Reliable, responsive, effective and knowledgeable. Grateful for Michael bender in turning my case around fairly quickly from an incompetent attorney who was dragging the case on for years with GAL and erroneous evaluations… Outrageously…

Arpan Shah

Spousal Maintenance Solutions

Spousal maintenance (often referred to as alimony) plays a crucial role in ensuring equitable financial support after divorce. In Illinois, the focus is on fairness, payments should neither burden one spouse unfairly nor leave the other in need.

Illinois law allows for awarding maintenance when one spouse requires financial support following divorce. The court determines eligibility and amount by applying a figure-based formula and considering a list of statutory factors.

Assessing Eligibility

Judges begin by determining whether maintenance is appropriate, referring to 750 ILCS 5/504(a). They review circumstances such as:

Income and assets (both marital and non‑marital)
Individual needs and living expenses
Each spouse's earning capacity (current and future)
Impact of domestic duties or postponed career opportunities
Contributions to the other spouse’s career or education
Length of the marriage, age, health, and standard of living during marriage
Tax consequences and any existing marital agreements

If the court finds maintenance appropriate, it determines how much and how long it should continue.

Calculating the Amount

For couples whose combined gross income is below $500,000 (and no prior support obligations), a formula applies under 750 ILCS 5/504(b-1)(1)(A):

Determining Duration

Duration follows statutory guidelines under the same section:

Maintenance may be set as fixed-term, indefinite, or reviewable. Our Chicago family law attorneys can negotiate terms that may include review clauses, early termination triggers like cohabitation or remarriage, and tax implications tailored to your situation. Through thoughtful drafting, your settlement can reflect both your financial goals and life plan.

Couples with income over $500,000 or with special circumstances can have amounts and duration adjusted. In these cases, the court relies on the same statutory factors to justify deviation and must document reasons in writing.

At Caesar & Bender, LLP, we perform precise income calculations and present those broader life factors to support your request or ensure fairness. Call (312) 236-1500 for a free consultation with an experienced Chicago family law attorney about a maintenance strategy that fits your case.

Highly Skilled Advocates in Family Law

We focus on every detail because we know that details can pivot a case

From Divorce to Custody. Strong All the Way

Molly Caesar has been a pleasure to work with during a difficult four year period – first beginning with the divorce (settled in 2016) followed by a subsequent custody battle (settled in June 2020 during Covid). Throughout this process she listened to…

Jeffrey Sobczynski

Highly Skilled Family Law Advocates Who Truly Care

Bespoke strategy for every client, every family, every case

Prenuptial & Postnuptial Agreements

A prenuptial or postnuptial agreement in Illinois allows couples to define financial arrangements either before or after marriage. These agreements provide clarity around property, support, and inheritance, helping couples make informed plans under Illinois law.

Drafting Customized Prenuptial Agreements

Illinois law recognizes prenuptial agreements under the Illinois Uniform Premarital Agreement Act (750 ILCS 10), which requires the document to be in writing and signed by both parties. These agreements can address division of property, allocation of debts, maintenance terms, and inheritance waivers, but cannot decide child custody or support. Our attorneys can guide you through the full financial disclosure process, drafting clear and enforceable terms, and preparing for voluntary signing, steps critical to uphold the agreement’s validity in court.

Updating Agreements After Marriage

Postnuptial agreements, which take effect after marriage, must meet Illinois requirements established by case law. Like prenups, they must be voluntary, supported by full financial disclosure, and free of coercion. These agreements commonly address income changes, inheritances received during marriage, and business ventures. We draft terms that reflect evolving family needs and carefully execute modifications with properly documented consent.

Protecting Business and Inheritance Interests

Couples with businesses, family homes, or expected inheritances often use marital agreements to clarify ownership rights and inheritance plans. Illinois courts have upheld provisions that waive inheritance rights or keep a business separate, provided there is clear language and adequate consideration. We work with clients to structure these terms so that their intention—to protect personal assets and family legacy—is honored under state law.

For couples considering a prenuptial or postnuptial agreement to address asset protection, business interests, or inheritance plans, we can assist with clear, tailored solutions. Our team at Caesar & Bender, LLP can draft and review agreements that comply with Illinois law, including full financial disclosure, voluntary execution, and terms that reflect your intentions.

Call (312) 236-1500 to discuss how we can help you preserve your financial future with confidence.

Trusted by Attorneys for Divorce & Custody

Joe Kramer

Property Division Strategies

Dividing assets under Illinois law aims for fairness, not necessarily a 50/50 split. Our team is committed to helping clients by distinguishing between what belongs to the shared marital estate and what remains separate, accurately valuing significant holdings, and addressing financial implications so that the division reflects each party’s contributions and future needs.

Identifying Marital vs. Non‑Marital Assets

Under Illinois statutes (750 ILCS 5/503), all property acquired after marriage is presumed marital, including debts and earnings. Non-marital property includes assets obtained before marriage, gifts or inheritances, those acquired during legal separation, and assets covered by valid prenuptial or postnuptial agreements. We can gather documentation to support clear classifications and, when needed, push back to protect assets claimed as separate.

Valuing Real Estate, Retirement, and Business Interests

Real estate, pensions, and business stakes often represent significant portions of a marital estate. Residential property is appraised to determine current market value, while business entities often require collaboration with valuation experts. Retirement benefits earned during marriage, whether pensions, 401(k)s, or IRAs, are divided using formulas like the “coverture fraction” and implemented through Qualified Domestic Relations Orders. Accurate valuations are essential to achieve a fair division.

Addressing Debt and Tax Consequences

Debt carried over from the marriage must also be equitably allocated. Dividing debt could affect net asset value and future financial obligations. We evaluate tax implications, particularly on asset transfers, retirement plan distributions, and potential capital gains, to minimize surprises post-divorce. Our team can structure property division in a way that balances debt responsibility and anticipates the financial impact for each party.

If you’re working toward an equitable distribution of assets and liabilities, our track record in Cook County family courts and familiarity with valuation methods can make the difference.

Contact us at (312) 236-1500 to discuss a thoughtful property division strategy tailored to your financial goals.

A Unique Perspective in Family Law

If we take your case, it is because we believe in it

Steady Guidance Through a Long, Difficult Divorce

Sarah Halverson

Genuine, Deeply Felt Passion for Justice

We focus on every detail because we know that details can pivot a case

Post‑Decree Modifications & Enforcement

After your divorce is final, life circumstances can shift—childcare needs, income levels, or parenting arrangements may no longer align with existing court orders. Illinois law permits adjustments or enforcement through a formal process when such changes occur or when orders are ignored.

Changing Custody or Support After Divorce

Illinois law allows parents to adjust custody, parenting time, and support when family circumstances evolve. These changes must go through the original court, and legal grounds vary depending on the issue.

Changing Custody or Parenting Time

Illinois uses a dual-track approach based on the timing of the request:

Motions are filed in the court that issued the initial decree. Required documents may include affidavits or exhibits demonstrating changed circumstances. Courts evaluate these requests by comparing prior conditions with current realities, always keeping children’s stability and welfare at the forefront.

Modifying Child Support

Child support orders may be adjusted under the following conditions:

Support modifications become effective from the filing date, and support continues while a petition is pending.

Seeking Modification or Termination of Spousal Maintenance

Changes in income, employment, health, or living arrangements may justify modifications or termination. Illinois law allows courts to adjust or end spousal maintenance based on a substantial change in circumstances. Automatic termination occurs upon the payee’s remarriage, cohabitation in a conjugal relationship, or the death of either party.

Our Chicago family law attorneys can file precise petitions on your behalf when these changes occur, build evidence of the shift, and advocate for your case. Whether you seek an increase, a decrease, or the end of support, we pursue the legal steps needed under Illinois statutes.

Filing Relocation Petitions for Parents

In Illinois, a parent with a majority of parenting time or equal parenting time must seek court approval before relocating with a child beyond certain distances. Under 750 ILCS 5/609.2, relocation is defined as:

The relocating parent must file a written notice with the other parent and the court at least 60 days before the intended move. The notice should include the planned moving date, new address (if known), and whether the move is temporary or permanent.

If the other parent does not agree, the relocating parent must file a petition for relocation. The court then reviews several factors to determine whether the move is in the child’s best interests, including:

Reasons for the proposed relocation
The relationship between the child and each parent
Educational and emotional benefits of the move
Extended family involvement at each location
Ability to maintain a meaningful relationship with the non-relocating parent

Relocation cases often require a revised parenting plan that addresses travel time, holidays, and virtual parenting time. Courts take these matters seriously due to the potential long-term effects on parent-child relationships and the child’s stability.

Pursuing Contempt Actions for Non‑Compliance

When a parent violates a court order, the other parent may pursue a contempt action. In Illinois, this process involves filing a petition with the court alleging that the non-compliant party willfully disobeyed a clear, lawful order.

The court will schedule a hearing where both parties may present evidence. If the court finds noncompliance was intentional, it may hold the violating party in contempt. Remedies can include:

The goal of a civil contempt action is not punishment but compliance. Illinois courts prefer to bring parties back into alignment with orders that serve the child’s best interests. Accurate records, documented communication, and a clear copy of the court order are important when filing or defending a contempt petition.

In cases where current court orders no longer reflect your family’s situation—or if the other party is not following the terms—you may have legal options available. At Caesar & Bender, LLP, we can help you pursue modifications and enforcement actions with careful preparation and focused advocacy.

Contact us at (312) 236-1500 to discuss how our team can assist with post-decree matters in a way that supports your goals and protects your rights.

Responsive Counsel: Every Call Answered, Every Concern Addressed

Daniel Vaci

Get Bespoke Representation in Your Family Law Case Today

At Caesar & Bender, LLP, we focus on practical legal guidance rooted in experience, preparation, and respect for every family’s unique situation. Our work is driven by careful attention to detail, clear communication, and a genuine commitment to helping our clients move forward. We take the time to understand what matters most to you and build every legal step around your goals and best interests. When your future depends on the outcome, we can represent you in or out of court with steady, focused advocacy.

Caesar & Bender, LLP is here to help. To speak with a Chicago family law attorney who takes your concerns seriously and pursues a clear path toward resolution, call (312) 236-1500 today.

Bespoke Representation in Family Law

Nearly 50 Years Combined Family Law Experience