LAWYERFAMILY LAW OPENINGSPOSTED: NOVEMBER 25, 2024IN PERSON • IL & MO OFFICES
Join a supportive, team-based family law firm handling complex matters across Missouri and Illinois—with strong staff
support, consistent caseloads, and a culture that values work-life balance.
Application materials are listed below. A Fluent Form will appear under this section.
Role Snapshot
Practice: Family Law (IL & MO)
Work Model: In person (main offices in Illinois & Missouri)
Casework: Managed from start to finish with support staff
Besserman Law Office, LLC is a small, multi-location family law firm with a supportive, team-based culture. We focus on
complex and diverse family law cases in Missouri and Illinois, and pride ourselves on delivering exceptional legal
service with a deep sense of care for both clients and staff.
About the Role
We are currently seeking self-motivated and experienced attorneys to join our firm in handling family law matters across
Missouri and Illinois. Our attorneys enjoy a strong support staff, a consistent caseload, and the ability to focus fully
on practicing law without the pressure of generating new business. This is an opportunity to grow within a firm that
values your expertise and promotes work-life balance.
Responsibilities
Provide outstanding customer service to all clients, including timely case reviews and reports
Proactively manage assigned family law cases from start to finish in Illinois and/or Missouri
Utilize MyCase to manage case files, track performance, and ensure timely client communication
Respond to client messages and comments in MyCase promptly
Review and draft legal documents as necessary throughout each case
Required Qualifications
Juris Doctorate from an accredited university
Passed the Bar Exam on the first attempt
Licensed in Illinois and Missouri or willing to become licensed in both within 6 months
Strong legal writing skills and academic credentials
Quick to learn and use new technology and software
Preferred Experience
Minimum 2 years of litigation experience
1st chair family law trial experience
Application Requirements
SUBMIT VIA FORM BELOW
Please submit the following for consideration:
Resume
Most recent experience and relevant family law work.
Cover letter with salary requirements
Include availability and your compensation expectations.
Proof of Illinois and/or Missouri licenses
Or commitment to dual licensure within 6 months.
Writing sample
Demonstrates your legal writing and clarity.
Location
Work Location: In person – Main offices in Illinois and Missouri
Next Step
Fill out the Form directly under this section on the page.
Illinois & Missouri
Paralegal
CAREERS AT BESSERMAN LAW
Paralegal – Missouri & Illinois
PARALEGALFAMILY LAWMO / IL • IN PERSON + ALTERNATING FRIDAYS REMOTE
We’re always growing and therefore hiring paralegals for positions in both our Missouri and Illinois offices.
This opportunity is ideal for someone with a family law background who can work independently, manage complex
deadlines, and provide thoughtful support to our attorneys and clients.
Application materials are listed below. A Fluent Form will appear under this section.
Role Snapshot
Position: Paralegal
Practice: Family Law (MO / IL)
Work Model: Full-time, in office + alternating Fridays remote
Schedule: Monday – Friday
Compensation & Benefits
Salary: Competitive, based on experience and ability
PTO: Paid holidays + earned PTO
401(k): With employer contribution
Health: 100% paid Employee health insurance
Why This Role
Close-knit, team-based firm
Client-centered work in contested matters
High-impact support role with real ownership
Stability and growth in a long-term career
About Besserman Law
Besserman Law is a close-knit, multi-location family law firm dedicated to guiding clients through some of the most
challenging times of their lives. We focus on listening, providing compassionate support, and delivering skilled legal
representation, particularly in contested family law matters. With a strong commitment to keeping legal services
accessible and a genuine passion for community, we strive to make a difference inside and outside the courtroom.
About the Role
We’re always growing and therefore hiring paralegals for positions in both our Missouri and Illinois offices.
This role is ideal for someone with a background in family law who can work independently, manage complex deadlines,
and provide thoughtful support to our attorneys and clients. Placement may be based on the candidate’s location
and the staffing needs of our Missouri and Illinois offices.
Key Responsibilities
Organize pleadings, generate discovery, and assist with trial preparation
Draft legal correspondence and documents with accuracy
Manage attorneys’ calendars and track civil procedure deadlines
Support e-filing and court procedure requirements
Provide client-facing support, including discovery and financial affidavit work
Maintain strong attention to detail in grammar, punctuation, and proofreading
Preferred Qualifications
Graduated from an ABA-certified paralegal program
2+ years of recent family law experience in Missouri and/or Illinois
Excellent grammar, punctuation, and proofreading skills
Strong critical thinking and prioritization abilities
Familiar with Apple systems and Microsoft Word
Experienced with e-filing and court procedures
Team-oriented and able to take direction well
Additional Information
Education: Bachelor’s (Preferred)
Work Location: In person + alternating Fridays remote – MO / IL
How to Apply
SUBMIT VIA FORM BELOW
To be considered for this role, please submit the following for consideration:
Cover letter with available start date
Include the earliest date you can start.
Resume with references and contact information
Most recent experience and relevant family law work.
Employment history
List prior roles and responsibilities relevant to the position.
Salary requirements
Share your expected compensation range.
Work Environment & Schedule
Full-time • Monday – Friday • In office + alternating Fridays remote • MO / IL
Next Step
Fill out the Form directly under this section on the page.
Illinois & Missouri
Legal Secretary
CAREERS AT BESSERMAN LAW
Legal Secretary – Missouri & Illinois
LEGAL SECRETARYFAMILY LAWMO / IL • IN PERSON + ALTERNATING FRIDAYS REMOTE
We’re always growing and therefore hiring Legal Secretaries for positions in both our Missouri and Illinois offices.
This opportunity is ideal for an experienced, personable self-starter who thrives in a fast-paced environment,
has a strong family law background, and enjoys making meaningful client connections from the very first phone call.
Application materials are listed below. A Fluent Form will appear under this section.
Role Snapshot
Position: Legal Secretary
Practice: Family Law (MO / IL)
Work Model: Full-time, in office + alternating Fridays remote
Health: Medical insurance • 100% paid Employee health insurance
Why This Role
Front-line client impact from the first call
Supportive, collaborative firm culture
Fast-paced work with clear ownership
Periodic paid team outings during work hours
About Besserman Law
Besserman Law is a close-knit, multi-location family law firm dedicated to guiding clients through some of the most
challenging times of their lives. We focus on listening, providing compassionate support, and delivering skilled legal
representation, particularly in contested family law matters. With a strong commitment to keeping legal services
accessible and a genuine passion for community, we strive to make a difference inside and outside the courtroom.
About the Role
We’re always growing and therefore hiring Legal Secretaries for positions in both our Missouri and Illinois offices.
This role is ideal for an experienced and personable self-starter who thrives in a fast-paced environment,
has a strong background in family law, and enjoys making meaningful client connections from the very first phone call.
Placement may be based on the candidate’s location and the staffing needs of our Missouri and Illinois offices.
Key Responsibilities
Answer and manage phone calls with professionalism and empathy
Schedule and confirm consultations and appointments
E-file court documents in both Missouri and Illinois
Scan, process, and organize legal documents and client files
Greet and assist clients in the office
Maintain attorneys’ calendars, including court dates and internal deadlines
Communicate promptly and clearly with attorneys, paralegals, and clients
Ensure timely notification of all updates and document handling
Must-Have Qualifications
3+ years of legal secretary or legal administrative experience (family law preferred)
Proficient with Apple/Mac systems
Familiar with e-filing in Missouri and/or Illinois preferred
Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
Personable and confident—able to encourage potential clients to schedule consultations
Experience with Casenet, Microsoft 365, Adobe, and Excel
Sales-savvy and client-focused
Bonus Skills
Experience with calendaring court deadlines
Familiarity with law office software systems and efficient office workflows
Familiarity with Missouri and Illinois e-filing systems
Why Join Us?
At Besserman Law, you’re not just joining a team—you’re becoming part of a supportive, collaborative family with a shared
mission to make a difference. We value initiative, professionalism, and heart. We’re excited to welcome someone who wants
to grow with us and contribute meaningfully to the success of our clients and firm.
How to Apply
SUBMIT VIA FORM BELOW
To be considered for this role, please submit the following for consideration:
Cover letter
Include why you’re a fit and what you’re looking for next.
Resume
Include relevant experience, software familiarity, and client-facing work.
Employment history
List prior roles and key responsibilities.
Salary requirements
Share your expected hourly pay within the posted range.
Work Environment & Schedule
Full-time • In office + alternating Fridays remote
Mon–Thu: 8:45 AM – 5:00 PM • Fri: 8:45 AM – 4:00 PM
Work Location
In person + alternating Fridays remote
MO / IL
Job Details
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $20.00 – $28.00 per hour
Next Step
Fill out the Form directly under this section on the page.
FAMILY LAW • DIVORCE • CUSTODY • SUPPORT
Family Law FAQs — Organized by State
These frequently asked questions cover common divorce and family law issues in Missouri and
Illinois. Each question is clearly labeled by state so updates remain easy to track over time.
This page is general educational information and not legal advice.
Laws and outcomes vary. Talk with an attorney to understand options for your specific facts and jurisdiction.
Divorce Basics
Filing, no-fault rules, timing, and separation requirements—labeled by state.
MISSOURI
How do I file for divorce in Missouri?
To file for divorce in Missouri, at least one spouse must have lived in Missouri for 90 days before filing.
Divorce cases are filed in the circuit court of the county where either spouse resides.
MISSOURI
Is Missouri a no-fault divorce state?
Yes. Missouri is a no-fault state. You do not have to prove adultery, abuse, or wrongdoing—only that the marriage is
“irretrievably broken.”
MISSOURI
How long does a divorce take in Missouri?
Missouri has a minimum 30-day waiting period, but most divorces take 3–12 months, depending on custody disputes,
property issues, and court schedules.
MISSOURI
Do I need my spouse’s permission to get divorced?
No. One spouse can file for divorce even if the other objects.
ILLINOIS
How do I file for divorce in Illinois?
One spouse must have lived in Illinois for at least 90 days before filing. Cases are filed in the circuit court of the
appropriate county.
ILLINOIS
Is Illinois a no-fault divorce state?
Yes. Illinois only allows no-fault divorce based on irreconcilable differences.
ILLINOIS
How long does a divorce take in Illinois?
Uncontested divorces can be finalized in as little as a few months, while contested cases often take 9–18 months.
ILLINOIS
Do we have to be separated before divorcing?
Illinois law presumes irreconcilable differences if spouses have lived apart for 6 months, but the court's no longer require an affidavit of living separately for any length of time.
Property & Finances
Equitable distribution, the house, retirement accounts, and maintenance/alimony.
MISSOURI Is Missouri a community property state?
No. Missouri follows equitable distribution, meaning marital property is divided fairly—not necessarily 50/50.
MISSOURI What counts as marital property in Missouri?
Generally, assets acquired during the marriage—including income, retirement accounts, and real estate—are marital
property, regardless of whose name is on them.
MISSOURI Who gets the house in a Missouri divorce?
There’s no automatic rule. Courts consider factors like financial contributions, custody arrangements, and each
spouse’s ability to maintain the home.
MISSOURI Will I have to pay spousal maintenance (alimony)?
Possibly. Missouri courts look at need, ability to pay, length of marriage, and earning capacity. Maintenance can be
temporary or long-term.
ILLINOIS Is Illinois a community property state?
No. Illinois follows equitable distribution, not automatic 50/50 division.
ILLINOIS What is considered marital property in Illinois?
Most assets and debts acquired during the marriage, regardless of title.
ILLINOIS How are retirement accounts divided?
Often through a Qualified Domestic Relations Order (QDRO)—errors here can be extremely expensive.
ILLINOIS Will I receive or pay maintenance (alimony)?
Illinois uses statutory guidelines based on income, marriage length, and financial need, though courts may deviate.
Child Custody & Support
Best-interest standards, parenting time, and how support is calculated.
MISSOURI How is child custody decided in Missouri?
Custody decisions are based on the best interests of the child, considering stability, parental involvement, and the
child’s needs.
MISSOURI Does Missouri favor mothers in custody cases?
No. Missouri law is gender-neutral. Courts often favor arrangements that allow frequent and meaningful contact with
both parents.
MISSOURI What types of custody exist in Missouri?
Legal custody (decision-making)
Physical custody (where the child lives)
Both can be joint or sole.
MISSOURI How is child support calculated?
Missouri uses Form 14, which considers income, parenting time, healthcare costs, and childcare expenses.
ILLINOIS Does Illinois still use the term “custody”?
No. Illinois now uses allocation of parental responsibilities and parenting time.
ILLINOIS How does Illinois decide parenting time?
Based on the best interests of the child, including stability, cooperation, and each parent’s involvement.
ILLINOIS Can a child choose which parent to live with?
A child’s wishes may be considered, but no child decides custody outright.
ILLINOIS What happens if one parent violates the parenting schedule?
Courts can impose fines, modify parenting time, or hold the parent in contempt.
ILLINOIS How is child support calculated in Illinois?
Illinois may use an income shared model, considering both parents’ income and time with the child based on overnights.
ILLINOIS Does parenting time affect child support?
Yes. Overnights and shared parenting significantly impact calculations.
ILLINOIS Can child support be modified?
Yes, if there’s a substantial change in circumstances (job loss, income change, medical issues).
Special & High-Conflict Issues
Pregnancy, hidden assets, relocation, domestic violence, and enforcement.
MISSOURI Can I get divorced while pregnant in Missouri?
Yes, but courts may delay final custody decisions until after birth.
MISSOURI What if my spouse is hiding assets?
Courts can impose penalties, reopen judgments, and award additional property if concealment is proven.
MISSOURI Can I move out with my children during a divorce?
This can seriously impact custody. Always talk to an attorney before relocating.
MISSOURI Do I need a lawyer for an uncontested divorce?
Legally no—but mistakes can be costly and irreversible, especially with property and custody.
ILLINOIS What if there is domestic violence?
Illinois courts can issue Orders of Protection immediately and prioritize safety.
ILLINOIS Can I move out of state with my child after divorce?
Relocation may require court approval or parental agreement depending upon the mileage involved.
ILLINOIS What if my spouse won’t cooperate?
Courts can compel disclosure, enforce deadlines, and impose sanctions.
ILLINOIS Do I really need a lawyer if we “agree on everything”?
Many people think they agree—until tax consequences, retirement, or future enforcement becomes an issue.
Facing family or divorce issues?
At Besserman Law, we understand that family and divorce matters can be challenging and emotionally draining. Our experienced team is here to provide you with compassionate, professional legal support every step of the way.
Disclaimer: The information on this website is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. No attorney-client relationship is formed by viewing this website. Legal outcomes depend on the facts of each case. Consult a licensed attorney for legal advice regarding your specific situation.