The Law Office of Ellen Sidney Weisz, Ltd.

The Law Office of Ellen Sidney Weisz, Ltd. Providing legal services focused primarily on family law issues for over 38 years. One attorney serv My page is merely an attempt to introduce myself to you.

I am available evenings during the week, often until 9 p.m. I am an experienced courtroom family lawyer, and I have handled 100's of residential real estate closings. People who become my clients become my family. I am dedicated to making their lives better. Persons who find themselves involved in court processes often experience much stress, in part because they are unfamiliar with the law, the

process, and are generally uninformed. I keep my clients fully appraised of every activity in their case. I think it is our duty as attorneys to do this. I provide my clients with all documents generated by myself and other attorneys or litigants so that they may have a copy of their entire file for themselves throughout the process. My goal is to efficiently and economically help each client navigate the court process to the most effective conclusion possible.

09/03/2022

Wow! Labor Day weekend already. My life is flying by. I am sorry I have not shared any thoughts with you recently. I have been busy returning to court for trials and zooming for hearings and status calls. It is very efficient, but also leaves lots of times for creating paperwork, which it seems like the documents get longer and longer all the time. One of my goals in preparing documents for my clients is to be efficient and concise. The less words you use while conveying a message, the better. Judges are swamped with Dropbox attachments and other links containing literally thousands of pages. How can anyone expect one person to read thirty of these in a week? I am just guessing at the numbers, but the point is that if I hope a Judge is going to review the pleadings (documents) and familiarize themselves with my case, I need to be efficient in conveying my message.

In the meantime, I keep moving forward, keeping our children first in importance, never losing sight of the fact that children love their parents no matter what. Damaging another parent's relationship with a child, damages the child.

Let's all have a great Fall, and work together to help our children grow into productive, functioning adults. Never lose sight of the fact that today's children are the adults of tomorrow and I do not want them kicking my cane out from under me when I am old and feeble.

03/14/2022

Good evening.

We have lost an hour, but gained sunlight. I love the sunshine, it is rejuvenating, and invigorating. I love to put my face up and feel the warmth of the sun. Things have been sunnier in my world lately. I have helped some people, and that makes me very happy. I want to help all my people, but I cannot control all that occurs, and certainly not the Judges, other attorneys, or litigants. I am pushing forward for those I have not yet finished helping, and hoping for more happy endings. "I won't back down." (Credit Tom Petty.)

I am always about the children. Please please please think about what you do and say before you do or say it. Everything we do in the presence of our children affects them forever. We are their role models, and their heroes, and they love us unconditionally. We must not let them down. We must set an example for them that will help them to grow up to be strong, independent, productive, functioning adults. They need our unconditional love. If we are upset with something in our life, it is ok to be upset, but never take it out on your child, your partner, your spouse, friends, or other family members.

My mission is to help make this a better world for everyone. Getting along with others, being kind, are all things we can do. It is so much easier to smile, than frown. It is so much easier to be nice than nasty. If we all practice, we can do it.

Join me in this effort to bring more kindness, and more happiness to the world.

Thanks for listening and have a great evening!

02/23/2022

Good morning all.

What is going on this world? I have so many cases where women are denying men contact with their children. Women are talking to their children about their cases, and their fathers, as well as their families. It is more rampant than ever.

I represent women who are great, so don't get me wrong. But the cases where the women either view the children as their own, and the father as merely incidental seem to be growing exponentially. Some of the women are angry because the man refuses to stay with them.

I am not saying the men are perfect, or always right, but I see them crying because of what is happening with their children. These children are being treated for mental illnesses, some even hospitalized. What are we doing to our children?

Studies show that children benefit from having two parents, even if they are not together in a relationship. If you badmouth the other parent, the children internalize that negativity and two things happen: 1) the children are confused and angry, and often take it out on the parent being denigrated; 2) the children suffer damage to their own self-image because they are their parents, and if one of their parents are "bad" they must be bad too.

I have said this behavior is attributable to women because I have not had any men behaving in this manner that I can recall. If I see this behavior by any person, I will quit a case. Both parents must endeavor to be positive about the other parent.

If the other parent does things that are detrimental to the children's mental or physical health, I instruct my clients to enroll them in individual counseling so the child can process the issues in a safe atmosphere. The children can learn to deal with the differences between their parents without involving their parents in the process.

This generation has suffered so much because of the selfishness of this "ME" generation. Children are fragile people, only beginning to form themselves. Give them a chance. Please. Stop fighting and start working together. At the very least, do not speak negatively about the other parent in their presence or to them. Give the children an opportunity to form their own opinion. Children are far more intuitive than anyone gives them credit for. Fighting in front of a baby affects that child. The child feels the stress and anxiety. Children today seem to suffer so much anxiety. They are getting this from the adults.

Stop damaging our children. This is the next generation. I do not want them growing up angry so that when I am old and feeble they kick my cane out from underneath me.

01/21/2022

Hi! It has been quite some time since I wrote to all my friends in Facebook Land. I am sorry, but I have been crazy busy. This whole Pandemic thing brings out the best, and the worst, in people. Here I am, starting my 40th year in the practice of law. So much has changed. With the commercialization of the law practice, competition has not necessarily improved the practice. Gimmicks, and self-serving awards, which you can buy for a few hundred dollars are ruling the day. People rely on the internet, and all of its various rating systems, most, if not all, of which are for-profit, commercial websites. The only way to really know about someone is to find out from another person who has had contact with them. This is why I post so infrequently. My clients come from other clients, or their friends, or families, or acquaintances, who have experienced my services and know that if I say it, I mean it.

I do not promise you the world, or even a piece of it. I promise that I will try to bring less stress to your world. I promise to do my very best to present your case, with its facts, as they may be, to the court in a manner so that court will know your story. My goal is that the court should decide your case based upon those facts. I am not going to embellish, alter, conceal, or otherwise misrepresent the facts. The legal system should be the embodiment of the search for the truth. The laws should be applied uniformly to all people. Judges are human beings. They bring their own experiences, and flaws to the bench. Having said this, it is my experience that they are trying to help. They are trying to make their contribution to our world, and make it an even better place.

Now that virtually everything is via Zoom, I like to remind myself, and my clients, this is court. You dress to show your respect for the court. You mute yourself when others are talking. You look at the Judge, or whomever is speaking. You do not interrupt. You do not talk on the phone. You do not jump in and out of the picture. You sit quietly, and respectfully as if you are standing in front of the bench in the courtroom. I am not perfect, but a work in progress. I love the "mute" button. It saves me from the urge to interrupt. I envy those people who seem to never have that urge. But, most important for us all is to respect the court, and respect the law. A lawless society would be a terribly scary place to live.

Having said all of this, I will continue to serve the people who seek my help. I will try to diffuse their difficult circumstances, and make their experience in the legal system a little less stressful. If you already know me, you know the main focus of my practice is family law. I handle divorces (now known as "dissolution of marriage"), custody (now known as "allocation of parental responsibilities"), and visitation (now known as "parenting time"), child support, maintenance (formerly known as "alimony"), property, and debt issues, and a host of other issues that people must navigate when their marriage ends, or they have a child with someone to whom they are not married, and need to set forth each party's rights and responsibilities. If those, or any other legal matters cause you to need an attorney, I hope you will afford me the opportunity to help you. After almost 40 years, if it is not an area of expertise in which I personally provide services, I know so many wonderful, caring, hardworking attorneys, who I trust to take care of you and your loved ones.

Thanks for visiting, and I hope you stay warm (in the Midwest where I am right now), and have a great day!

07/20/2021

Hello friends. Hot, cold, torrential rain, no rain. Nothing like Summer in Chicago.

I have been seeing more and more cases in which a parent uses their children as pawns in the conflict with the other parent. I wish they would remember the passion with which they brought these children into the world.

These are PEOPLE, people. How about a little thought about how your behavior affects them? I see more children with severe anxiety, under psychiatric care, and prescribed various medications than ever before.

These are the adults of tomorrow. We are creating a generation of highly dysfunctional people. How about stop being so selfish and remember what I always say. "Children don't ask to be born. They cannot pick.their parents."

Take your children on a fun and interesting vacation. Go fishing and camping. Go to a city you've never visited before. Take a road trip or a train or an airplane.

I was so lucky growing up. My parents went out of their way to take us to new, and interesting, and fun places. We were encouraged to do different things, make new friends, or do sonething we never did before. We were taught that life is an adventure. You work hard and you play hard. If you acted inappropriately you suffered consequences. Everybody had to pitch in and do their part. As a result, I and my five siblings grew up to be productive, functioning adults. Not necessarily wealthy or educated with advanced degrees, but happy in our lot. Always making the best of it. Whatever "it" is. We are closeknit. We know we are each other's best friend. We know when the chips are down, we are there for each other, and our aunts, uncles and cousins.

We need to help today's children enjoy and love their family. We need to imbue them with a feeling of security. Even if parents can't be together, they can still co-parent in a healthy way. Put your disagreements aside for your children. There is a time and place for everything.

Have a great rest ofthe Summer my friends.

06/20/2021

Happy Father's Day. Today we honor our fathers who often love us so quietly we can't hear them. Fathers be sure to hug your kids today because without them you wouldn't be a father. Kids remember that your Dad loves you.

Everyone remember this: Kids don't ask to be born and they can't choose their parents. We owe them a duty to be the best parents we can be, to help them grow into productive, functioning adults. I don't want them kicking my cane out from underneath me when I'm old and feeble.

These are truisms I tell to all my client's. I also tell them "we are adults. If we want to screw up our lives that's our choice. But, children don't have a choice, so we have to try to make the best choices for them."

It really should be Happy Children's Day" every day of the year. I hope we don't need Hallmark Hollidays to love and cherish each other.

"Life is too short." "Don't sweat the small stuff." "Don't cry over spilt milk." Make every day Mother's Day, Father's Day, and Children's Day! Stay strong and happy. If something doesn't go quite the way you want. Shake it off. Pick yourself up and keep moving forward. It's the only way to go. Happy Day Everyone.

04/21/2021

Happy mid-Spring everyone. The weather, just like the world is going up and down at an alarming rate. One day it is 70 degrees the next day it is snowing. It is great to see tulips and daffodils, and all of the lovely Spring flowers in the neighborhoods. Like the care we take with out flowers, let's work together to help our children grow into strong, happy, healthy adults by nurturing them with our love, care, and especially our best behavior. If you are in conflict in your adult relationships, this should not be shared with your children. To the extent that older children understand, the information should be imparted seriously and thoughtfully. It is helpful for children for their parents to sit down and explain, that even though they have conflicts, it is not a conflict which includes the children. They need to be reassured that both of their parents love them, and the conflict has nothing to do with them. Younger children may not understand, but they feel and absorb the tension, and anger, and anxiety. We must all do our best for the children. They are the adults of tomorrow. They will be running this world when we are old and feeble. I, for one, do not want them kicking my cane out from underneath me. Please remember, children cannot choose their parents. Children to do not ask to be born. Therefore, we owe them a duty to set the best example, and to protect them from harm. Do not forget that psychological harm is very damaging, and sometimes worse, than physical harm. Let's all resolve to be the best adults we can be so that we raise children who are productive functioning adults. Have a great day and a happy Spring!

03/14/2021

This never gets easier. Just like when there's a really nice day, and you think Spring is coming. Then, the next day it snows 3-6 inches. That's very similar to the practice of family law. At least for me, because I care. It is so painful to watch the horrible things people do to their children.

I have been practicing law for over 38 years. I think this is either becoming more rampant, or I'm attracting high conflict cases. Mothers or fathers that turn their children against the other parent. Parents who scream and yell, and hit their children, belittling them, and destroying their self-image, making them sick with fear and loathing of their other parent. Or worse yet, teaching their children to disdain and disrespect the other parent.

I've said it before but I'll say it again. Children do not ask to be born. They cannot pick their parents. If you have children you owe them a duty to give them the tools they need to grow into productive, functioning adults. Help them reach their highest level of potential. Give them your love. Nurture them. Remember that they are the adults of tomorrow. I don't want them kicking my cane out from underneath me. Do you?

01/14/2021

We are now in the "dog days of winter." I'm told this saying derives from the fact that in olden days you slept with your dog(s) for warmth. Most of my dog friends sleep with their dogs all year round. They says dogs love you unconditionally, and never want to trade you in for a different human.

Unfortunately, not all humans think like this. That's what brings people to me. I'm sad that there is a lack of lifelong commitment with so many couples today. I once had a client tell me he "commits serial marriage." He had been married so many times I can't remember the exact number.

My father was also a family law attorney. He told me "there's a reason why people get married. Something special brings them together. They end up apart when the let that 'special something' die." Again, you end up with me. Your children end up feeling badly, often about themselves. Some develop relationship issues, either they cannot or won't make commitments. These effects damage their functioning as an adult, it's damaging to all of society. I endeavor to assist my clients in navigating this quagmire, by encouraging them to be mindful of their children, and the effect of their behavior on their children.

People change, relationships fail. Don't let your failed relationship damage your children. Think "is what I'm doing going to negatively impact my child?" Remember they are the innocent victims, the collateral damage which is avoidable, if we keep in mind that they love both their parents and, to be healthy, must continuously be encouraged to do so.

I hope you are enjoying our so far mild winter. I know I am. Spring will be here before you know it. Wishing You All the best!

12/04/2020

Just like that, it is December. The days are getting shorter, kind of like life. The older you get the faster it goes. For children everyday is like a week, for older folks, every day is like a minute, except for those of you who live with stress and strife every day. I am sorry that you have to experience the pain of growing apart, and/or changing in ways that your partner does not share. Relationships are hard work. If both people do not work at it, it will fail. Both parties have to be united as a team. This is best for your children, and better for you. The problem is that the only person who we can control in this life is ourselves.

If you find yourself at the end of your rope, or your spouse has announced that they are not willing to work together with you any longer, I hope you will afford me the opportunity to help you. I see myself as a helper. You are stressed, you have to make decisions that will affect you and your children for the rest of your lives. That is where I come in. I will be that biased, but independent voice in your head. I become attached to my clients, and I believe in their cause, this is why I say I am biased. But, I see my role as being the rational, economical, caring "voice inside your head." The advice I will give you will be in your best interests. I will advise you to agree to reduce your stress levels. If it is not an agreement which comports with the law, if your rights are being infringed, I will fight to change the terms so that you are protected, and your children are protected.

If there are financial assets, I will help you navigate the difficult task of valuing them, and determining an appropriate distribution. If you are the main wage-earner, you have an obligation to support your spouse and children, but depending upon the length of your marriage, your spouse may have an obligation to seek to improve their employability, or just become employed. If you are the stay at home parent, or earn a lesser income, the law is clear in regard to your rights and responsibilities. There are deviations, but there are specific requirements which must be met in regard to your financial future. Either way, I will help you to follow the path that is right for you, and your children.

I always include the children, because they should be our number one concern. I see cases where one parent attempts to persuade the children to turn away from the other parent. The damage to the children is sometimes irreparable. We cannot let this happen. The last thing this world needs is generation, after generation of maladjusted people because their parents were too selfish to see the damage they inflicted on their children by their dislike of the person they thought well enough to sleep with, and bear children.

If there are personality or substance issues, I will help you understand, and navigate those waters as well. Protections must be put in place so that the children are not damaged by these flaws, and help must be provided to the people who suffer these infirmities.

I have been on both sides of a multitude of circumstances, but one can never say they have "seen it all." Every person is unique, and every situation is unique, because we are not clones. Even twins are not entirely carbon copies of each other (at least in my experience). Accepting all of the differences I have seen, and have yet to see, analyzing the best course of conduct, if you give me the opportunity, I will work with you, and for you and your children.

Once again, thank you for allowing me to share my thoughts with you. I hope your December is warm and full of love.

11/20/2020

Hello everyone! It is late November, and we are still seeing roses blooming, and green grass...but this is Chicago, so don't be fooled. Sadly, this world is so filled with people who would gladly fool you. I receive calls almost daily from people who have paid their attorneys copious amounts of money, but have seen no progress, just bills. They have had no input in the creation of, nor have they received copies of pleadings (documents filed with the court), orders (documents signed by the judge dictating the next steps, as well as current circumstances that govern the parties' behavior), and have no idea what is going on in their cases.

When I represent someone, they are copied on everything that is sent from, or received by this office. (Emails to and from the other attorney, filings, letters, or any other communications received by, or sent by me.) "This office" means me. Ellen Sidney Weisz. I give each client my personal attention. Yes, I have an assistant, but she assists me. Shari is a sweet, intelligent, caring person who will help my clients filling in forms, organizing documents, and passing along messages to me when I am not immediately available. I might have Shari ask you questions for me, and relay answers when I am in the middle of creating a document for you, so that I can keep pouring over the material. This is economical for you. Having two people working, saving time, and paying for only me. I have seen law firms that charge $90/hour for their "assistants." I do not charge for work performed by Shari, I charge for work performed by me.

I do not pass your case off to some associate, and then you never see me. It is just me. If you want an attorney who cares about you and your family, and takes 100% responsibility for keeping you informed, and handling all substantive issues related to your case, then I am your go-to lawyer.

I just celebrated the 38th anniversary of my admission to the bar. I cannot believe how fast the time has gone. I have at least another 20 good years left, so I will be here for you now, and in the future. I am a high energy person who cannot remain idle. I thirst for knowledge, constantly researching, attending more continuing legal education classes than required, because I want to learn.

The Law Office of Ellen Sidney Weisz, Ltd. is me, with a little Shari sprinkled on top. I hope you will afford me the opportunity to serve your legal needs (focusing primarily in family law, real estate transactions, and estate planning). Thank you for taking the time to read my thoughts.

Address

3305 N Nagle Avenue
Chicago, IL
60634

Opening Hours

Monday 9am - 8pm
Tuesday 9am - 8pm
Wednesday 9am - 8pm
Thursday 9am - 8pm
Friday 9am - 8pm
Saturday 9am - 5pm

Telephone

+17735453381

Website

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