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Kathryn L. Ciesla
Partner | Attorney | Mediator
Family Law Attorney
Mediator
Guardian Ad Litem
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Illinois State Bar Association
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Lake County Bar Association
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Certified Mediator
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Cook County Approved Guardian ad Litem
Connect with Kathryn
“My philosophy is simple: every client deserves to feel
heard, respected, and supported throughout this process.
I take the time to understand each family’s unique circumstances so I can provide thoughtful, practical guidance and help clients move forward with confidence.”
Kathryn Ciesla | Family Law Attorney & Mediator
Kathryn L. Ciesla is a founding partner of Ciesla Beeler, and a highly respected family law attorney, mediator, and child advocate serving Chicago’s North Shore and surrounding communities. She is known for helping clients resolve complex family law matters efficiently while protecting their financial security, parental relationships, and long-term well-being.
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With decades of experience and a rare combination of legal, financial, and operational expertise, Kathryn provides thoughtful, strategic guidance in matters involving divorce, custody, parenting time, financial disputes, and high-asset cases. Her clients include professionals, business owners, executives, and families who value discretion, clarity, and practical solutions.
Professional Experience
Kathryn began her legal career at a general practice firm in Evanston, where she developed a strong foundation in litigation, divorce, custody, and family-related matters. She later joined the nation’s largest law firm, focusing exclusively on matrimonial law and representing clients with significant assets and complex financial interests.
In this role, she handled matters involving business valuations, tax implications, asset discovery, property division, support, and trust and estate planning. These cases required sophisticated financial analysis and a deep understanding of business operations.
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Kathryn later served as General Counsel and Chief Operating Officer for a regionally accredited college with multiple campuses in the Chicago metropolitan area. In that role, she oversaw finance, information technology, and human resources for an organization with annual revenues exceeding $20 million.
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In 2007, Kathryn returned to private practice, bringing with her a uniquely well-rounded perspective that continues to benefit her clients in complex and high-stakes family law matters.
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She regularly writes and speaks on topics related to family law, child advocacy, and dispute resolution.
Commitment to Child Advocacy
Child advocacy remains central to Kathryn’s practice.
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In 2012, she was approved by the Chief Judge of the Circuit Court of Cook County to serve as a Guardian ad Litem and Child Representative in contested divorce and custody matters. In 2014, she received the same designation in Lake County.
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To date, Kathryn has represented more than 300 children in Cook and Lake County courts and continues to serve as counsel for children in numerous active cases. She is widely respected for her balanced, child-centered approach and her ability to navigate highly sensitive family dynamics.
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Kathryn is also a Certified Mediator, having earned her Certificate in Divorce Mediation Skills Training from Northwestern University’s School of Continuing Studies. She is frequently retained by private clients and appointed by judges to serve as a mediator and Parenting Coordinator.
Advocacy for LGBTQ+ Individuals & Families
Kathryn has significant experience representing LGBTQ+ parents and children in family law matters, including cases involving allocation of parental responsibilities, parenting time, relocation, and the recognition of parental rights. She understands that these cases often present unique legal and emotional considerations and works to ensure that her clients’ identities, relationships, and families are respected throughout the legal process.
Kathryn is also a frequent speaker on LGBTQ+ issues in family court litigation. She has presented to legal and professional audiences on topics including the evolving legal landscape for transgender and nonbinary children, supporting gender diverse youth in high conflict parenting disputes, and navigating family law systems in a way that affirms and protects LGBTQ+ families.
Her work in this area reflects a broader commitment to providing thoughtful, informed advocacy for clients whose families may not fit traditional legal frameworks.
Community Leadership
Kathryn is deeply committed to public service and community leadership.
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In April 2021, she was elected Village President of Northbrook, following three terms as an elected Trustee. In this role, she works collaboratively with residents, businesses, and civic leaders to guide the Village’s long-term growth and governance.
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She has also served on the Legislative Committee of the Northwest Municipal Conference, representing municipalities and residents across the north and northwest suburbs of Chicago.
Personal Interests
Outside of her professional and civic work, Kathryn enjoys traveling, up-cycling, and creative projects involving art and design. She lives in Northbrook with her two daughters and her rescue dogs.
Education
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Northwestern University, School of Continuing Studies, Divorce Mediation Skills Training
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University of Illinois, Institute of Government and Public Affairs, Leadership Academy
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Harvard Law School, Program on Negotiation for Senior Executives
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The John Marshall Law School, Juris Doctor
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College of Saint Benedict, Bachelor of Arts
Bar Admissions
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State of Illinois
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United States District Court, Northern District of Illinois
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United States Court of Appeals, Seventh Circuit
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United States Tax Court
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United States Supreme Court
Associations, Awards & Recognitions
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Illinois State Bar Association
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Lake County Bar Association
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Association of Family Conciliation Courts
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SuperLawyers, 2017-2026
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American Institute of Family Law Attorneys, 10 Best in Client Satisfaction, 2019-2020
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AVVO Clients' Choice Award, 2014, 2016, 2018
