team-member

Neal Simon

N/A

Licensed for 18 years

Law Degree

Awards

Primary Practice Area

Child support

Language

English

About

For nearly two decades, I have litigated complex family law matters, focusing my practice exclusively on the negotiation and litigation of complex divorce matters.  In 2013, I opened my law office to better serve the individual needs of my clients. I devote my entire practice to the complicated legal framework of divorce and family law, and work tirelessly to achieve my clients’ goals. I am an impassioned and knowledgeable litigator, and vigorously fight to obtain the best results for each of my clients.I frequently lecture on issues ranging from the use of technology to improve client representation to the honing of lie detection skills for use in depositions and court proceedings. He have lectured to the ABA Section of Family Law, the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers, the Chicago Bar Association, the Minnesota Family Law Institute, and the Valuation, Forensic Accounting and Litigation Services Conference, among others.

Practices Areas

Child custody

Child support

Divorce and separation

Family

Domestic Violence

Language

English

Contact

Ventrelli | Simon LLC191 Waukegan RoadSuite 211Northfield, IL, 60093

Office: (847) 505-0758

Website: N/A

Reviews

Stacey
January 13, 2022

Divorce is an emotional and painful time. Neal not only has a wonderful disposition but he is knowledgeable, empathetic, strategic and looked out for my best interest. I asked so many questions that most were over my head but with Neals guidance he helped me to understand the whole process and excellent in helping me to understand my rights. All of the documents were very well written and extremely thorough. I highly recommend Neal and his firm!!

Joseph
July 28, 2021

Five minutes into my initial consult, I knew I had found the right lawyer. Neal combines a no-nonsense, direct approach with warmth, tact, kindness and sincerity. These winning traits are underpinned by impressive credentials and experience, and incisive, effective litigation skills. Neal does not tell you what you want to hear. Hire another attorney if that’s what you want. Rather, he distills his firm grasp of the law, extensive experience with how the system works, and sharp instincts to deliver expert, realistic, and wise advice. After deviating from his recommendations a few times and regretting it, I learned to trust him implicitly. Before the judge, Neal shines. I marveled at his preparation, eloquence, passion, and effectiveness in advocating for me at every court appearance. The petitions, responses and pre-trial memorandum he composed for the court were convincing, substantiated and accurate. Neal prepared me well for every court appearance both in terms of what to say (or not say!) and what the range of possible outcomes might be. His results exceeded my expectations in every instance. To say I was grateful to have Neal protecting my interests is an understatement. In collaboration and negotiation, Neal is perceptive, insightful, creative, and savvy. After failed mediation, failed collaboration and multiple petitions in a case that spanned 4.5 years, two mediators and my ex’s succession of four legal teams, I fully expected to end up at trial. I didn’t want that. Neal charted a course that culminated in a crushing pretrial conference during which the judge ruled in my favor on nearly every issue. I credit Neal with averting trial and drawing a reasonable settlement from the opposition. This was a huge success as well as a relief because I especially didn’t want to involve my son in a trial. Neal told me in our first meeting that because Ventrelli & Simon LLC is a boutique firm with a small staff, there might be times when another client’s critical juncture would require his full attention. He said during those times he might seem unresponsive to non-critical items. But he went on to reassure me that whenever my case would heat up, he’d be dedicated to me. He was true to his word. At every surprise grenade lobbed by my ex, gearing up for every court appearance and especially as we accelerated toward settlement, I felt like I was Neal’s only client. He kept in constant contact and continually pressed the opposition to move forward until we had signed agreements and a decree in hand. Finally, in spite of my ex’s frequent flip-flopping, recalcitrance, and parade of legal representation, Neal was a class act, always taking the high road. He never said a single inappropriate or disrespectful word about her, publicly or privately. That’s the caliber of the man. He is the complete package. I feel VERY lucky that I happened to be referred to him. I am a client for life and can’t recommend him highly enough.

James
July 12, 2021

Neal represented me for several years during my divorce. He brought a deep knowledge and understanding to my case. From day one, he informed me of excellently what to expect from the process, himself, and the courts. Neal isn't just honest when it is easy, he is honest when it is difficult to tell a client what they need to hear. He gave me advice that was hard to hear sometimes being up front about what could or could not be accomplished. On at least one occasion he saved my from myself and a potentially costly legal fight that would have yielded no benefits. It is very difficult to tell a client when they are pursing something that is not in their best interests but Neal was always very frank with me. That being said, when something was feasible, he would help me come up with a strategy to purse it, obtain our goals, and not waste effort on extemporaneous but seemingly related items. He brought a laser focus. When it comes to advocating in the courts, he is the most passionate and dedicated advocate someone could ask for. He will tirelessly advocate for his client. Neal helped me focus on only what mattered and could be obtained in my divorce and not waste time, money, emotional energy, or effort on what can't be accomplished. I can't recommend Neal highly enough!

Bonnie
June 23, 2021

Neal Simon LLC is an Attorney with integrity. Neal is honest and kind. When I first spoke with Neal on the phone I felt a sense of unity. Neal will not make you feel uptight and unlike many attorneys (I am one who has dealt with several,) he feels like a friend and you will sense that too immediately. Neal Simon wants to help you and he will do all he can, I promise you. I have never known an attorney quite like him and I recommend Neal highly! However I would not want to go up against him in a court of law. Thankfully, Neal settled my predicament before going to court was a necessity. I know what Neal can do when he see’s an injustice and empathizes with what you are fighting for. Neal Simon LLC is truly one of a kind. With “compassion and understanding” this is how Ventrelli Simon treats their clients. I was lucky enough to have experienced this firsthand. I would never consider hiring another attorney other than Neal Simon. He will see the injustice that was perpetrated against you. Wisdom, Knowledge, Efficiency and Experience is how Ventrelli Simon LLC conducts their business. After being a client of this law firm I understand why Ventrelli Simon LLC has been voted the “Best Law Firm”, in Chicago and the surrounding areas. Thank you Neal Simon and a big “thank you “ to Reena, Neal’s legal assistant. Reena has listened to my concerns when Neal was fighting for Justice in the courtroom.

Timothy
June 14, 2021

From start to finish Neal and his team guided me through a very difficult process. His approach, personality, and overall knowledge made me feel comfortable and in good keeping. I would highly recommend.

Steve
March 9, 2021

Neal was excellent to work with in resolving my divorce after being married for many years. Neal's legal expertise, combined with his empathy and compassion for all involved, makes Neal somebody you want on your team. While keeping his client's interests at the forefront, he is always focused on practical as well as legal solutions to resolve issues and move efficiently to the conclusion of what is almost always a very stressful, complicated and emotional process. While one would hope not to be a repeat client of any family law attorney, Neal was the first person I called prior to getting remarried to draft our pre-marital agreement.

anonymous
February 4, 2021

Neal is an excellent attorney and was extremely effective in representing me. I’ve also recommended him to a cousin and he was also very happy with Neal and the outcome he achieved.

Michelle
November 16, 2020

I'm grateful to have found Neal to help me understand my options and guide me in the with regards to child support and custody. He is a true ally! When it comes time to hire professional counsel, he will definitely be the one I call. thank you, Neal.

Susan
June 30, 2020

Neal was patient kind and compassionate. Very thorough with my best interest at the forefront at all times. I highly recommend him

Kyle
June 13, 2020

My case was going in the wrong direction. Something had to change and thank god I found Neal. My case instantly turned around. He is an honest lawyer who will take care of you. You’re case may be different by I ended up with 50/50 with Neal and I believe it was because of his influence and expertise. I am continuing with Neal in my future needs (such as having my ex follow the orders that were agreed to). I would give 10 stars if I could.

Stacey
January 13, 2022

Divorce is an emotional and painful time. Neal not only has a wonderful disposition but he is knowledgeable, empathetic, strategic and looked out for my best interest. I asked so many questions that most were over my head but with Neals guidance he helped me to understand the whole process and excellent in helping me to understand my rights. All of the documents were very well written and extremely thorough. I highly recommend Neal and his firm!!

Joseph
July 28, 2021

Five minutes into my initial consult, I knew I had found the right lawyer. Neal combines a no-nonsense, direct approach with warmth, tact, kindness and sincerity. These winning traits are underpinned by impressive credentials and experience, and incisive, effective litigation skills. Neal does not tell you what you want to hear. Hire another attorney if that’s what you want. Rather, he distills his firm grasp of the law, extensive experience with how the system works, and sharp instincts to deliver expert, realistic, and wise advice. After deviating from his recommendations a few times and regretting it, I learned to trust him implicitly. Before the judge, Neal shines. I marveled at his preparation, eloquence, passion, and effectiveness in advocating for me at every court appearance. The petitions, responses and pre-trial memorandum he composed for the court were convincing, substantiated and accurate. Neal prepared me well for every court appearance both in terms of what to say (or not say!) and what the range of possible outcomes might be. His results exceeded my expectations in every instance. To say I was grateful to have Neal protecting my interests is an understatement. In collaboration and negotiation, Neal is perceptive, insightful, creative, and savvy. After failed mediation, failed collaboration and multiple petitions in a case that spanned 4.5 years, two mediators and my ex’s succession of four legal teams, I fully expected to end up at trial. I didn’t want that. Neal charted a course that culminated in a crushing pretrial conference during which the judge ruled in my favor on nearly every issue. I credit Neal with averting trial and drawing a reasonable settlement from the opposition. This was a huge success as well as a relief because I especially didn’t want to involve my son in a trial. Neal told me in our first meeting that because Ventrelli & Simon LLC is a boutique firm with a small staff, there might be times when another client’s critical juncture would require his full attention. He said during those times he might seem unresponsive to non-critical items. But he went on to reassure me that whenever my case would heat up, he’d be dedicated to me. He was true to his word. At every surprise grenade lobbed by my ex, gearing up for every court appearance and especially as we accelerated toward settlement, I felt like I was Neal’s only client. He kept in constant contact and continually pressed the opposition to move forward until we had signed agreements and a decree in hand. Finally, in spite of my ex’s frequent flip-flopping, recalcitrance, and parade of legal representation, Neal was a class act, always taking the high road. He never said a single inappropriate or disrespectful word about her, publicly or privately. That’s the caliber of the man. He is the complete package. I feel VERY lucky that I happened to be referred to him. I am a client for life and can’t recommend him highly enough.

James
July 12, 2021

Neal represented me for several years during my divorce. He brought a deep knowledge and understanding to my case. From day one, he informed me of excellently what to expect from the process, himself, and the courts. Neal isn't just honest when it is easy, he is honest when it is difficult to tell a client what they need to hear. He gave me advice that was hard to hear sometimes being up front about what could or could not be accomplished. On at least one occasion he saved my from myself and a potentially costly legal fight that would have yielded no benefits. It is very difficult to tell a client when they are pursing something that is not in their best interests but Neal was always very frank with me. That being said, when something was feasible, he would help me come up with a strategy to purse it, obtain our goals, and not waste effort on extemporaneous but seemingly related items. He brought a laser focus. When it comes to advocating in the courts, he is the most passionate and dedicated advocate someone could ask for. He will tirelessly advocate for his client. Neal helped me focus on only what mattered and could be obtained in my divorce and not waste time, money, emotional energy, or effort on what can't be accomplished. I can't recommend Neal highly enough!

Bonnie
June 23, 2021

Neal Simon LLC is an Attorney with integrity. Neal is honest and kind. When I first spoke with Neal on the phone I felt a sense of unity. Neal will not make you feel uptight and unlike many attorneys (I am one who has dealt with several,) he feels like a friend and you will sense that too immediately. Neal Simon wants to help you and he will do all he can, I promise you. I have never known an attorney quite like him and I recommend Neal highly! However I would not want to go up against him in a court of law. Thankfully, Neal settled my predicament before going to court was a necessity. I know what Neal can do when he see’s an injustice and empathizes with what you are fighting for. Neal Simon LLC is truly one of a kind. With “compassion and understanding” this is how Ventrelli Simon treats their clients. I was lucky enough to have experienced this firsthand. I would never consider hiring another attorney other than Neal Simon. He will see the injustice that was perpetrated against you. Wisdom, Knowledge, Efficiency and Experience is how Ventrelli Simon LLC conducts their business. After being a client of this law firm I understand why Ventrelli Simon LLC has been voted the “Best Law Firm”, in Chicago and the surrounding areas. Thank you Neal Simon and a big “thank you “ to Reena, Neal’s legal assistant. Reena has listened to my concerns when Neal was fighting for Justice in the courtroom.

Timothy
June 14, 2021

From start to finish Neal and his team guided me through a very difficult process. His approach, personality, and overall knowledge made me feel comfortable and in good keeping. I would highly recommend.

Steve
March 9, 2021

Neal was excellent to work with in resolving my divorce after being married for many years. Neal's legal expertise, combined with his empathy and compassion for all involved, makes Neal somebody you want on your team. While keeping his client's interests at the forefront, he is always focused on practical as well as legal solutions to resolve issues and move efficiently to the conclusion of what is almost always a very stressful, complicated and emotional process. While one would hope not to be a repeat client of any family law attorney, Neal was the first person I called prior to getting remarried to draft our pre-marital agreement.

anonymous
February 4, 2021

Neal is an excellent attorney and was extremely effective in representing me. I’ve also recommended him to a cousin and he was also very happy with Neal and the outcome he achieved.

Michelle
November 16, 2020

I'm grateful to have found Neal to help me understand my options and guide me in the with regards to child support and custody. He is a true ally! When it comes time to hire professional counsel, he will definitely be the one I call. thank you, Neal.

Susan
June 30, 2020

Neal was patient kind and compassionate. Very thorough with my best interest at the forefront at all times. I highly recommend him

Kyle
June 13, 2020

My case was going in the wrong direction. Something had to change and thank god I found Neal. My case instantly turned around. He is an honest lawyer who will take care of you. You’re case may be different by I ended up with 50/50 with Neal and I believe it was because of his influence and expertise. I am continuing with Neal in my future needs (such as having my ex follow the orders that were agreed to). I would give 10 stars if I could.

Stacey
January 13, 2022

Divorce is an emotional and painful time. Neal not only has a wonderful disposition but he is knowledgeable, empathetic, strategic and looked out for my best interest. I asked so many questions that most were over my head but with Neals guidance he helped me to understand the whole process and excellent in helping me to understand my rights. All of the documents were very well written and extremely thorough. I highly recommend Neal and his firm!!

Joseph
July 28, 2021

Five minutes into my initial consult, I knew I had found the right lawyer. Neal combines a no-nonsense, direct approach with warmth, tact, kindness and sincerity. These winning traits are underpinned by impressive credentials and experience, and incisive, effective litigation skills. Neal does not tell you what you want to hear. Hire another attorney if that’s what you want. Rather, he distills his firm grasp of the law, extensive experience with how the system works, and sharp instincts to deliver expert, realistic, and wise advice. After deviating from his recommendations a few times and regretting it, I learned to trust him implicitly. Before the judge, Neal shines. I marveled at his preparation, eloquence, passion, and effectiveness in advocating for me at every court appearance. The petitions, responses and pre-trial memorandum he composed for the court were convincing, substantiated and accurate. Neal prepared me well for every court appearance both in terms of what to say (or not say!) and what the range of possible outcomes might be. His results exceeded my expectations in every instance. To say I was grateful to have Neal protecting my interests is an understatement. In collaboration and negotiation, Neal is perceptive, insightful, creative, and savvy. After failed mediation, failed collaboration and multiple petitions in a case that spanned 4.5 years, two mediators and my ex’s succession of four legal teams, I fully expected to end up at trial. I didn’t want that. Neal charted a course that culminated in a crushing pretrial conference during which the judge ruled in my favor on nearly every issue. I credit Neal with averting trial and drawing a reasonable settlement from the opposition. This was a huge success as well as a relief because I especially didn’t want to involve my son in a trial. Neal told me in our first meeting that because Ventrelli & Simon LLC is a boutique firm with a small staff, there might be times when another client’s critical juncture would require his full attention. He said during those times he might seem unresponsive to non-critical items. But he went on to reassure me that whenever my case would heat up, he’d be dedicated to me. He was true to his word. At every surprise grenade lobbed by my ex, gearing up for every court appearance and especially as we accelerated toward settlement, I felt like I was Neal’s only client. He kept in constant contact and continually pressed the opposition to move forward until we had signed agreements and a decree in hand. Finally, in spite of my ex’s frequent flip-flopping, recalcitrance, and parade of legal representation, Neal was a class act, always taking the high road. He never said a single inappropriate or disrespectful word about her, publicly or privately. That’s the caliber of the man. He is the complete package. I feel VERY lucky that I happened to be referred to him. I am a client for life and can’t recommend him highly enough.

James
July 12, 2021

Neal represented me for several years during my divorce. He brought a deep knowledge and understanding to my case. From day one, he informed me of excellently what to expect from the process, himself, and the courts. Neal isn't just honest when it is easy, he is honest when it is difficult to tell a client what they need to hear. He gave me advice that was hard to hear sometimes being up front about what could or could not be accomplished. On at least one occasion he saved my from myself and a potentially costly legal fight that would have yielded no benefits. It is very difficult to tell a client when they are pursing something that is not in their best interests but Neal was always very frank with me. That being said, when something was feasible, he would help me come up with a strategy to purse it, obtain our goals, and not waste effort on extemporaneous but seemingly related items. He brought a laser focus. When it comes to advocating in the courts, he is the most passionate and dedicated advocate someone could ask for. He will tirelessly advocate for his client. Neal helped me focus on only what mattered and could be obtained in my divorce and not waste time, money, emotional energy, or effort on what can't be accomplished. I can't recommend Neal highly enough!

Bonnie
June 23, 2021

Neal Simon LLC is an Attorney with integrity. Neal is honest and kind. When I first spoke with Neal on the phone I felt a sense of unity. Neal will not make you feel uptight and unlike many attorneys (I am one who has dealt with several,) he feels like a friend and you will sense that too immediately. Neal Simon wants to help you and he will do all he can, I promise you. I have never known an attorney quite like him and I recommend Neal highly! However I would not want to go up against him in a court of law. Thankfully, Neal settled my predicament before going to court was a necessity. I know what Neal can do when he see’s an injustice and empathizes with what you are fighting for. Neal Simon LLC is truly one of a kind. With “compassion and understanding” this is how Ventrelli Simon treats their clients. I was lucky enough to have experienced this firsthand. I would never consider hiring another attorney other than Neal Simon. He will see the injustice that was perpetrated against you. Wisdom, Knowledge, Efficiency and Experience is how Ventrelli Simon LLC conducts their business. After being a client of this law firm I understand why Ventrelli Simon LLC has been voted the “Best Law Firm”, in Chicago and the surrounding areas. Thank you Neal Simon and a big “thank you “ to Reena, Neal’s legal assistant. Reena has listened to my concerns when Neal was fighting for Justice in the courtroom.

Timothy
June 14, 2021

From start to finish Neal and his team guided me through a very difficult process. His approach, personality, and overall knowledge made me feel comfortable and in good keeping. I would highly recommend.

Steve
March 9, 2021

Neal was excellent to work with in resolving my divorce after being married for many years. Neal's legal expertise, combined with his empathy and compassion for all involved, makes Neal somebody you want on your team. While keeping his client's interests at the forefront, he is always focused on practical as well as legal solutions to resolve issues and move efficiently to the conclusion of what is almost always a very stressful, complicated and emotional process. While one would hope not to be a repeat client of any family law attorney, Neal was the first person I called prior to getting remarried to draft our pre-marital agreement.

anonymous
February 4, 2021

Neal is an excellent attorney and was extremely effective in representing me. I’ve also recommended him to a cousin and he was also very happy with Neal and the outcome he achieved.

Michelle
November 16, 2020

I'm grateful to have found Neal to help me understand my options and guide me in the with regards to child support and custody. He is a true ally! When it comes time to hire professional counsel, he will definitely be the one I call. thank you, Neal.

Susan
June 30, 2020

Neal was patient kind and compassionate. Very thorough with my best interest at the forefront at all times. I highly recommend him

Kyle
June 13, 2020

My case was going in the wrong direction. Something had to change and thank god I found Neal. My case instantly turned around. He is an honest lawyer who will take care of you. You’re case may be different by I ended up with 50/50 with Neal and I believe it was because of his influence and expertise. I am continuing with Neal in my future needs (such as having my ex follow the orders that were agreed to). I would give 10 stars if I could.