KATHRYN HOMBURGER MICKELSON: EQUITY PARTNER, BEERMANN LLP

Known for her thoughtful and straightforward approach to family law, Kathryn “Katy” Homburger Mickelson has distinguished herself among her peers by identifying her individual client’s goals and then drawing on her extensive experience to bring strategic and empowering representation to each case. “I not only get the honor of advocating, but I get the privilege of listening,” says Mickelson, a seasoned litigator and certified mediator who’s been a Divorce and Family Law Equity Partner with Beermann LLP for two decades. “I learn from my clients every day, whether it’s about a new industry or perspective.” By looking at family law issues pragmatically, she crafts strategies that will result in resolution that is efficient, expeditious, and drama-free. “Family law is not about the attorney and what they have to say; it’s about the client and their situation and how we can best explain and advocate,” says Mickelson, a University of Michigan and Chicago-Kent College of Law graduate. “Clients want success but they also want a realistic viewpoint on what is possible.”

A North Shore native who lives in Park Ridge with her husband, two children, and the family’s English Mastiff and miniature English Cream Dachshund, Mickelson was drawn to the legal field because she wanted to make a difference in the lives of others. Prior to starting law school at age 29, Mickelson worked as a public relations executive. She joined Beermann between her second and third year of law school and never looked back. “What I have learned since becoming a lawyer inspired me to continue—that you can educate and empower people to make smart decisions and change the course of their lives,” she explains.

Mickelson is also a tireless advocate for working mothers everywhere. “Being a working mom and raising humans of our own takes a tremendous amount of work outside of our other jobs and I strive hard to not only remember that but give kudos to the moms working on my team and in my firm,” she says, adding that when her children gave her a list of things they love about her for Mother’s Day, none of the items were material. “They were all about teaching valuable lessons, being there for them unconditionally, and spending time with them. Even when my days are hard, I’ve at least done well by these small humans. It’s nice to remember.”

For more information, visit beermannlaw.com/team/kathryn-homburger-mickelson.