Jennifer R. Ward, Esquire, is the Founder of WARD FAMILY LAW, LLC, a respected Chicago divorce law firm known for its focused and experienced approach to divorce and family law matters. For more than 20 years, Ms. Ward has exclusively practiced in the divorce and family law field, representing clients through some of the most complex and emotionally significant transitions of their lives.
Her long-standing commitment to family law, combined with academic, courtroom, and publishing experience, positions her as a highly regarded Chicago divorce lawyer with a deep understanding of both legal strategy and human dynamics.
Exclusive Focus on Divorce and Family Law
Unlike general practitioners, Ms. Ward has built her career entirely around divorce and family law. This singular focus allows her to navigate complex issues such as property division, parenting matters, financial settlements, and long-term dissolution of marriage with precision and clarity.
Clients of WARD FAMILY LAW, LLC benefit from representation that balances firm advocacy with thoughtful negotiation, ensuring that both legal rights and practical outcomes are carefully addressed. Her practice is rooted in strategic planning, clear communication, and meticulous legal drafting.
Academic Leadership and Legal Education
In addition to her private practice, Ms. Ward has played a significant role in legal education. Since 2005, she has served as an Adjunct Professor at the University of Illinois – Chicago School of Law (formerly The John Marshall Law School), where she teaches family law legal drafting.
The institution’s Legal Writing program was ranked #27 in the nation by U.S. News & World Report’s 2020 Specialty Rankings, reflecting the high academic standards of the program in which Ms. Ward teaches. Her involvement ensures that future attorneys receive practical, real-world insight into family law documentation and advocacy.
Public Speaking, Publications, and Community Engagement
Ms. Ward is also recognized for her contributions beyond the courtroom and classroom. She was selected to speak on an exclusive panel at “Leaving a Long-Term Marriage,” a workshop produced by The Lilac Tree. This Evanston-based nonprofit supports women contemplating divorce.
Her expertise has also been shared through a matrimonial-focused lecture series at The Latin School of Chicago Adult Education Program, and she has provided commentary for Chicago Tribune–related publications on family law topics of public interest. These contributions highlight her ability to explain complex legal concepts in an accessible and responsible manner.
A Well-Rounded Approach to Client Representation
Ms. Ward’s combined experience in litigation, settlement negotiation, drafting, and public education enables her to offer clients comprehensive and balanced representation. Her background ensures:
- Thoughtful and strategic settlement negotiations
- Clear, precise, and enforceable legal documents
- Strong courtroom advocacy when litigation is necessary
This multifaceted approach is a defining characteristic of her Chicago divorce law firm, enabling clients to make informed decisions at every stage of the legal process.
Educational Background and Early Leadership
Ms. Ward earned her undergraduate degree in Journalism from the University of Missouri – Columbia, a foundation that continues to inform her clear communication style and analytical thinking. She later earned her Juris Doctor from the University of Illinois – Chicago School of Law and was admitted to the Illinois Bar.
During law school, she demonstrated strong leadership and academic involvement, participating in a Moot Court Interscholastic Team Competition, serving as Vice President of the Student Bar Association, acting as a Moot Court Council Member, and working as a Student Ambassador.
She later served on the Young Alumni Council and co-chaired the Summer 2008 Social Event, further reflecting her ongoing commitment to the legal community.
Commitment to Service and Community Impact
Beyond her legal career, Ms. Ward co-founded Ward Toy Scholars, an initiative that raised funds to support inner-city school reading incentive programs. This effort reflects her broader commitment to education, literacy, and community development.
