Tanya Stanish’s practice is focused entirely on her clients. She understands that each case, each story, and each circumstance is different and unique to that specific client. Stanish first and foremost listens to her clients and lets them tell their story. She also doesn’t discriminate in her representation; she has and continues to represent both men and women, not favoring one spouse over another.

After getting to know the client, Stanish then begins to form a plan based on the client’s situation and needs, while always keeping her clients involved throughout the process. She provides her clients with several different avenues, all of which will achieve the end goal, but she lets her clients determine which avenue feels right for them. She’s always on hand to work with clients as well to help them determine which path may be the best fit for them if they’re struggling to select that themselves.

As for what sets her apart, Stanish is a very talented and accomplished litigator. Litigation is a true talent that not everyone has or can learn, but Stanish has mastered and excelled in this field. What makes her such an asset to her clients though, is that she’s equally as comfortable and skilled in practicing in all different forums as well. Stanish realizes that not every case requires litigation, and she’s just as prepared (and successful) in mediation or directly negotiating resolution.

Stanish works primarily with high net-worth clients and has a history of working with particularly high-profile clients in the Chicago area as well. These cases are often accompanied by complex financials and can include sensitive family matters. Stanish doesn’t shy away from these cases. She’s not intimidated by complicated financial or familial issues, she’s familiar with them from her work history and has the knowledge and experience to take on the more complex or nuanced cases and handle them well.

A key component to Stanish’s successes is also keeping her clients in a positive mindset, even amidst an overwhelming case. She always reminds her clients that even if they’re on a bumpy road right now, they’re working toward an end and on the other side of that bumpy road is a whole new life.

It’s not uncommon, sometimes just a month after a divorce is finalized, or sometimes over a year later, for her former clients to reach out to Stanish with an update to let her know they’re doing well and in a really great place.

“At the end of a long road, seeing the client happy and better off … that’s when I know I’m making a difference,” says Stanish. One of the biggest mistakes she sees throughout the divorce process? Not trusting your lawyer. Stanish advises that if you have a good lawyer, you should listen to them. She also notes that it’s ok to switch lawyers if you don’t like the results you’re getting (or not getting). Stanish herself often takes on cases mid-way through, where she can then reframe the case and help her clients determine a new direction to take.

Above all, Stanish understands and advises the importance of feeling comfortable with and having trust in your representation. That way, you can work together as a team, as she does with her clients, and get the results you want and deserve.

The Schiller DuCanto & Fleck, LLP Chicago office is located at 321 N. Clark St., Suite 1200. For more information, call 312-641-5560 or visit sdflaw.com.