Contributors

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Jonathan Merel

Jonathan Merel is an experienced attorney who advocates for his clients in all divorce and family law proceedings, including settlement negotiations and trials. Jonathan founded Merel Family Law in early 2009 after working for many years at another family law firm in Chicago. Through his hard work and unwavering dedication to his clients, Jonathan has quickly grown the firm to become one of the premier divorce and family law firms in the Chicagoland area.


Jonathan is seen as a thought leader in family law throughout the nation after appearances on the Today show, coverage by the Wall Street Journal and Crain’s Chicago Business. He is also a frequent guest on many top-rated podcasts. Over the years, he has built up a wealth of intimate knowledge of family law, and he relishes any opportunity to share it with those who need it.

https://merelfamilylaw.com/attorneys/jonathan-merel/

Guests

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Guest

Ashley Margason

Characterized by her ability to navigate the ever-diverse circumstances of family law efficiently and effectively, Ashley Margason is a trusted family law attorney with a reputation for being a fierce defender of her clients’ rights. Every client has unique and personal needs, and Ashley’s clients appreciate the ample time she spends listening to – and understanding – their stories before offering detailed legal counsel and advice.


Ashley’s fascination with intricate financial issues has long been a part of her career and drove her to pursue an undergraduate degree in accounting from Iowa State University.


It’s imperative to work with an attorney who shows a deep understanding of both the complex legal system as well as the human element that is so often forgotten by family lawyers.

https://merelfamilylaw.com/attorneys/ashley-margason/

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Ben Cohen

Ben Cohen is one of the nation’s top-producing loan originators and a trusted voice for buyers, real estate professionals, and developers navigating today’s ever-changing housing market. As Managing Director and Senior Vice President of Lending at Rate, Ben leads one of the most respected mortgage teams in the country, recognized for their speed, service, and execution.

 

With over two decades of experience, Ben blends deep industry knowledge with a personal, client-first approach that simplifies complex financial concepts and delivers clear, actionable advice. His dedication to education and transparency has made him a go-to expert for those seeking clarity and confidence in one of life’s biggest financial decisions.

https://www.BenCohenLends.com

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Brad Kaye

Bradley R. Kaye is a divorce and family law attorney who knows how to win. His clients rave about his preparation and support, and he takes pride in giving them confidence in and out of the courtroom – whether it’s with a professional athlete, stay-at-home parent, music industry manager, disenfranchised spouse or high-profile executive.


Brad has built a solid reputation throughout all of Chicagoland and the surrounding areas for his tenacious representation and high-quality legal strategy. He demonstrates confidence, instills it in others and backs it up with results. He has been called a “tireless advocate” and is known to be “straightforward and honest” about the expectations of the often-uncertain court system.


Brad is also passionate about animal rights and volunteering with Chicago Volunteer Legal Services.


https://merelfamilylaw.com/attorneys/bradley-r-kaye/

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David Zwaska

David Zwaska is an experienced litigator who excels at making the law digestible for family law clients every step of the way.


Sure, David has the awards and resume that make him look like a highly capable attorney to work with, but what really sets him apart is the depth of knowledge he brings to each case he works on – as well as how easy he is to talk to.


He’s methodical and he listens. David has a way of hearing our clients and connecting with genuine compassion. He’s smart and he’s in tune with what really matters: your family, your finances and your life. He takes his role as your divorce attorney seriously, but no one beats David’s ability to calm nerves.


David continues to serve his alma mater community of DePaul University as a member of the DePaul Family Law Center Advisory Board. He was recognized as an Emerging Lawyer after being identified by his peers to be among the top lawyers in Illinois age 40 or younger.

https://merelfamilylaw.com/attorneys/david-zwaska/

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Ilana Dunn

Ilana Dunn is a Millennial and Gen Z Dating Expert, Content Creator, and Host of Seeing Other People, a Spotify Top 50 Viral Podcast and one of Elite Daily’s “Podcasts You Need to be Listening to This Year.” After a two-year stint as Hinge's Lead Content Creator, Ilana created Seeing Other People to help daters all over the world feel less alone and more empowered in their dating lives. Ilana has been interviewed on over 80 podcasts, featured in The Washington Post, PopSugar, and The Independent, and has received nominations for The Webby Awards and The Shorty Awards.

https://www.ilanadunn.com/

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Jaclyn DeSana

Jaclyn is a skilled and compassionate attorney who is dedicated to helping her clients navigate difficult situations. Jaclyn received a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from Wayne State University. Jaclyn continued her education at UIC Law School where she received her J.D. and a certificate in Trial Advocacy.


She believes one of the most important things about practicing family law is counseling clients through these difficult and often emotionally challenging situations. Jaclyn is compassionate and ensures that she listens to her clients’ needs, while also zealously advocating for her clients inside and outside of the courtroom.


Jaclyn is currently a member of the Chicago Bar Association, the DuPage County Bar Association and the National Lawyers Guild.

https://merelfamilylaw.com/attorneys/jaclyn-desana/

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Melissa Caballero Dunn

To clients, Melissa Caballero Dunn is “the best” and a “rare” family attorney. To our firm, she is the engine that keeps us running a smooth operation. As Managing Partner, Merel Family Law relies on Melissa to know what’s around every corner. You can trust her to do the same for your case.


She is compassionate and articulate; dozens of 5-star reviews confirm her work representing clients in family law matters. Certified mediator, award-winning, and trained in collaborative divorce, she’s also appointed by judges to represent the interests of minor children in custody disputes. This year, she was named a member of the illustrious Forty Under 40 class of 2023 – a peer-reviewed selection of the finest young attorneys in Chicago.

https://merelfamilylaw.com/attorneys/melissa-caballero-dunn/

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