REDEFINING FAMILY

Ushering in the new year often comes with personal change. For many, the new year symbolizes fresh starts and bold decisions. For others, it’s the moment they’ve been quietly anticipating yet dreading—confronting the cracks in a marriage widening for months if not years.

Morgan Stogsdill, Head of Family Law at Beermann LLP, an award-winning family law firm with offices in Chicago and on the North Shore, says this time of year often brings an influx of clients struggling with their relationships. “We see a rise in divorces happening early in the year because many people just hold on until the holidays are over,” she says. The reality is that there is never a perfect time to move forward. “There will always be another holiday or another event, and it really comes down to whether couples can continue to live in an unhappy relationship.”

With her extensive experience, she not only guides clients through complex legal matters but also helps them recognize when it might be time to reevaluate their personal relationships. She notes that the end of a relationship often becomes evident in everyday moments—from avoiding the stress of going home to dodging family events that require putting on a facade. “You are not alone. Ask yourself how you feel when your spouse calls you or whether you want to spend time alone with them. The answer to these questions may show something underlying should be evaluated,” she says.

For many, hesitation stems from concern for their children. As a mother, Stogsdill understands the importance of family integrity but also prioritizes well-being. “Children know when their parents are miserable, even if they don’t say it outright,” she says. “Showing them what a happy and healthy parent looks like—whether married or not—is the greatest gift you can give.”

As one of Illinois’ premier family law attorneys at the largest family law firm in Illinois, Stogsdill brings high standards and expertise to managing complex cases with clients ranging from CEOs to business owners and celebrities. “I keep the pressure down and redefine the family in a confidential way,” she says. “The best thing I can do as an attorney is allow the family to move forward with dignity.”

Her passion for supporting clients doesn’t stop at the negotiation table—it extends to the airwaves. With her hit podcast, How Not to Suck at Divorce, she blends empathy and valuable divorce information to make the complexities of divorce approachable for listeners around the globe. “Divorce is a tough journey,” she says, “but you don’t have to face it alone.” Her fresh, relatable approach keeps audiences coming back for advice, reassurance, and a few laughs along the way.

Beermann has been managing complex, high-asset cases since With a focus on discretion and care, Stogsdill ensures each client receives personalized attention and tailored strategies, guiding families through transitions with dignity and respect. “Our goal is to help families move forward amicably with the best interest of their family at the forefront,” she says.

Morgan Stogsdill with Beermann LLP located at 161 N. Clark Street, Suite 3000, in Chicago, 312-621-9700, and 2275 Half Day Road, Suite 350, in Bannockburn, 847-681-9600, beermannlaw.com, hownottosuckatdivorce.com, @beermann_llp.