Where Excellence in Matrimonial Law is the Standard

The Illinois Chapter of the

American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers

The Illinois Chapter of the AAML

Empowering Illinois Families to Access Quality Legal Representation

Illinois Chapter Fellows advance the practice of family law among their peers by organizing and leading seminars and teaching continuing legal education classes.

Fellows also help educate legislators at the state level–helping to ensure that the implementation of laws matches the intention behind them and that laws affecting families are thoughtfully considered.

Distinguished Counsel, Uncompromising Ethics

Fellows of the Illinois Chapter of the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers (AAML) are recognized by judges, other attorneys and clients as the gold standard for family law. In addition to their individual practice, Fellows conduct legal education programs, lead community outreach, and support philanthropic initiatives. They also lead the charge in shaping family law legislation and enacting legal reform.

Of the several thousand family law attorneys in the State of Illinois, 95 are practicing Academy Fellows. To earn the distinction of Fellow, these remarkable lawyers–most with decades of experience in family law–have sustained the highest principles in their practice and passed a rigorous review process.

Renowned for providing outstanding service to their clients, Illinois Fellows raise the bar for the practice of family law. Not only do they advance the profession with their exceptional advocacy and uncompromising ethics, they also benefit their clients through expert guidance and protection.

Qualification for Membership

Learn more about how to apply to be an AAML fellow

1

Be recognized for their practice of family law by the bench and the bar in their jurisdiction

2

Have been admitted to bar for at least seven years, dedicating at least 75 percent of their practice to matrimonial law (for at least five years immediately before the date of application). Note that for those lawyers “downstate” the 75% requirement might be waived and be reduced to 50%.

3

Have completed 15 hours of continuing legal education in each of the previous five years

4

Pass a written examination on subjects pertaining to matrimonial and family law, administered by the National Board of Examiners

5

Complete an interview and examination conducted by the Illinois Chapter Board of Examiners, as well as interviews by other matrimonial law practitioners in Illinois

6

Commit to the ethical standards set forth in the “Bounds of Advocacy” as well as rules of professional conduct endorsed by the Illinois State Bar Association

7

Demonstrate involvement in study or improvement of matrimonial law, such as publishing articles or teaching continuing education courses

William Boyd Scholarship for African American Law Students

The Illinois Chapter of the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers sponsors the AAML Illinois Chapter William Stewart Boyd Scholarship for African American Law Students. This scholarship is a one-time award of $5,000 to a second-year law student attending an Illinois Law School. It is named for the Hon. William Stewart Boyd, who has spent more than two decades as an Associate Judge for the Cook County Circuit Court, and who has agreed to mentor the scholarship winners.