In 1962, a group of highly regarded matrimonial attorneys in Chicago, Illinois founded the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers (AAML). Its mission is as important now as it was then: “To encourage the study, improve the practice, elevate the standards and advance the cause of matrimonial law, to the end that the welfare of the family and society be protected.” Today, there are more than 1,650 Fellows in the United States. While some Chapters are smaller than others, there are AAML Chapters in every state.

The Academy Fellows are highly skilled negotiators and litigators who represent individuals in every aspect of family law. These areas include divorce, annulment, prenuptial agreements, post-nuptial agreements, marital settlement agreements, child custody and visitation, business valuations, property valuations and division, alimony, child support, domestic abuse, collaborative law, assisted reproductive technology, surrogacy, issues affecting LGBTQ families, and other family law issues. American families have changed a lot in the past 60 years. As has always been true and in accordance with their mission, AAML Fellows serve as trusted advisors to all families.

A client who retains an AAML Fellow is represented by a practitioner who is recognized by judges, hearing officers, experts, and other attorneys as a leader in family law. Academy Fellows enjoy a well-earned reputation for zealous, effective, and practical advocacy. Fellows practice at the highest level of knowledge, skill, and integrity. At the same time, that client has an attorney who understands and will support that client through the emotional ups and downs and the scary twists and turns of any family law case, helping that client to stay focused and away from costly sidetracks, such as unnecessary litigation, that do not serve the best interests and goals of the client and/or the client’s children.