Betsy Blakeman

Litigation attorney with extensive family law and civil defense experience.

Betsy obtained her Juris Doctor degree from Northern Illinois University College of Law. Upon passing the bar exam, she immediately immersed herself in the world of family law, driven by her desire to help individuals and families during some of their most challenging times.

With over a decade of experience, Betsy has successfully represented clients in a wide range of family law cases, including divorce, child custody and support, spousal maintenance, property division, adoption, paternity disputes, juvenile matters, DCFS appeals, and domestic violence issues. Her extensive knowledge of family law statutes, combined with her strategic litigation skills, allows her to tailor strategies that align with her clients’ unique circumstances and desired outcomes. Her exceptional communication skills ensure that clients are informed and empowered at every step of their legal journey. Betsy is a skilled negotiator, aiming to resolve disputes amicably whenever possible, and she is equally adept at advocating for her clients in the courtroom when litigation becomes necessary. She is particularly adept at client management, client retention, legal research and writing, and public speaking.

Experience

2018-2023

Associate Attorney Quinn Johnston

Independently obtained and managed family law cases, including dissolution, custody, relocation, and appeals. Certified mediator and collaborative law attorney. Provided key support on medical malpractice and civil rights defense matters. Barred in the Central and Southern US District Courts and the Seventh Circuit Court of Appeals. Researched, drafted, and successfully argued motions for summary judgment and responses to petitions for injunctive relief. Conducted depositions of parties, including medical providers and experts. Prepared pre-trial materials, including jury instructions and motions in limine, and participated in pre-trial conferences, settlement conferences, and private mediation.

2015-2018

Senior Associate and Team Lead Stange Law Firm

Retained clients at all Illinois satellite offices. Received the Rainmaker Award 2017. Managed a full caseload of family law matters, including DCFS appeals, adoptions, and juvenile matters. Supervised a team of 6-8 associate attorneys at four Illinois locations. Participated in firm management and administrative decisions.

2009-2015

Associate Attorney Giamanco Law Office

Independently obtained and managed family law cases in the Cook and collar county courts. Conducted arbitration and jury trials on automobile accident matters. Covered criminal matters, including bond reduction and probable cause matters.

Cases and Results

• Successfully reversed a foster parent’s DCFS indicated findings at the circuit court level. This allowed the foster parents to adopt three young siblings.
• Obtained equal parenting time for a father who moved and changed jobs to spend more time with his child.
• Obtained leave to relocate for a mother to return to her family in Florida.