Why did you apply to become an AAML Fellow?
My father, Sandy Kirsh, was a founding member of the Illinois chapter, and it was really important to him that I become a Fellow. The AAML was a big part of his professional and social life, and he wanted me to have the same experience.
What do you find most rewarding about being a Fellow?
I appreciate being able to talk to really good lawyers about our issues. The law is developing all the time, and the Academy takes a position on bills being proposed in Springfield. For me, the best part is that I can help shape how the practice develops.
What area of family law do you find most interesting?
I handle a lot of guardian ad litem and custody cases, and I love that work. But those cases are emotionally draining. So I also like a good old-fashioned let’s-fight-about-money case. In the end, somebody might get a little bit less, whereas in custody cases, people can get hurt.
What’s the first tip you have for a new client?
Avoid litigation: get your divorce over, even if it means paying a little more. There’s an emotional cost to litigation. Clients and friends say that divorce is the worst experience of their life. Why would you want to prolong it any longer than you have to?
What are you most looking forward to in the next year?
My daughter, who is currently my law clerk, is entering her third year of law school and will join the firm when she graduates. I’m pretty proud about that.
Matthew A. Kirsh, senior partner at Kirsh & Associates, LTD in Chicago, can be reached at mkirsh@kirshfamilylaw.com and (312) 981-0109.
