Vanessa L. Hammer Named a Fellow of the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers

Hammer Serna & Quinn, LLC is pleased to announce that founding partner, Vanessa L. Hammer, has been named as a Fellow of the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers (AAML). The AAML is comprised of the top matrimonial attorneys throughout the nation who are recognized as preeminent family law practitioners with the highest levels of knowledge, skill, and integrity. In order to be elected, each Fellow must successfully complete a rigorous selection process that includes national and state examinations, personal interviews, and professional and judicial recommendations.

Vanessa is well-regarded for her diplomatic and creative approach to family law. Vanessa believes that everyone is deserving of high quality legal services. To that end, Vanessa has dedicated her entire legal career to representing families from all walks of life; from high-net-worth individuals in complex divorce proceedings involving substantial assets, business valuations, tax, and trust issues to families with limited estates. Vanessa also represents families in contested matters involving children as a litigator, a mediator, and by court appointment, as a Guardian ad Litem.

“I am honored to be a member of this distinguished group of family law professionals. I am fortunate to have been mentored along the way by many AAML Fellows both in Illinois and Texas. I look forward to carrying on their legacy of excellence and professionalism.”, said Ms. Hammer.

Hammer Serna & Quinn congratulates Vanessa on this extraordinary professional achievement. We look forward to her continued leadership of the firm and as a Fellow of the AAML.

The AAML was established in 1962 and is the preeminent organization for family law practitioners. Headquartered in Chicago, Illinois, the AAML is comprised of approximately 1,600 Fellows across the country. For more information, visit aaml.org or contact Executive Director Jill C. Peña at jill@aaml.org.

What is a Guardian ad Litem and How Will This Affect My Case?

In the majority of family law cases, parents are able to reach an agreement on a parenting plan which serves the children’s best interest. Unfortunately, sometimes this is not possible and a Guardian ad Litem must be appointed to assist the Court to determine the children’s best interest. A Guardian ad Litem may be appointed in any case where the Court needs to investigate the best interests of a child. 

A Guardian ad Litem (GAL) is an attorney with special training that the Court appoints to help resolve disputes involving parenting time and/or allocation of parental responsibilities (formerly known as visitation and/or custody).  Either parent may request that the Court appoint a GAL or the Court may appoint a GAL on its own. 

The GAL investigates the facts of your case and reviews the pleadings filed by both parents, the police reports, medical records, and school records.  In addition, a GAL may interview the parents, the children (if age appropriate), and any other person who may be helpful in their investigation such as extended family members, teachers, coaches, doctors or anyone else who may be familiar with the issues in dispute.  After completing an investigation, the GAL makes recommendations to the Court with regard to any child-related issues.

Besides a GAL the Court may appoint a Child Representative or attorney for the child in addition to or in lieu of a GAL. A Child Representative has the same powers as a GAL, but may also participate in the litigation of the case by filing pleadings or calling witnesses. The Child Representative does not render an opinion, recommendation, or report to the Court. An attorney for a child provides independent legal counsel for that child or children. The attorney owes the same duties of loyalty, and confidentiality that an adult client is due.

The attorneys at Hammer Serna & Quinn are experienced in helping clients navigate contested custody matters where a GAL has been appointed. Vanessa L. Hammer is approved to serve as a Guardian ad Litem in Cook and DuPage Counties. The litigation experience and Guardian ad Litem training of the attorneys at Hammer Serna & Quinn allows them to give an informed perspective and provide legal evidence in matters involving a GAL.