OUR
PHILOSOPHY
PEOPLE GOING THROUGH DIVORCE OFTEN FEEL ALONE, SAD, ANGRY, HURT, POWERLESS, AND CONFUSED.
They may feel that what is happening in their lives is not fair. Roselynn recognizes and addresses her client’s feelings while helping them to achieve the best outcome under the circumstances by providing information about the law and process, exploring options, and guiding her clients toward realistic expectations without “adding fuel to the fire”.
Roselynn enjoys her work as a Mediator and Collaborative Lawyer as these processes allow the parties to express their needs, interests, and wishes in a safe setting. The parties can achieve results that are more creative, individualized, and detailed than might be possible with a litigated divorce. Roselynn will explore with you the best process for you and your situation – whether it be traditional (litigated/negotiated divorce; mediated divorce or collaborative divorce).
Roselynn understands that everyone seeking to dissolve their relationship has a unique story. “All happy families are alike, each unhappy family is unhappy in its own way” (Anna Karenina – Leo Tolstoy)
About Me
Roselynn’s strength is her ability to connect with people, treat them with respect, listen to what they say about their situation, and understand their needs. Roselynn provides guidance without being judgmental. She combines her knowledge of the law with her life experiences to advocate for the best results for her clients.
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Roselynn will follow these basic guidelines in her interactions with you:
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I will provide you with information about the various divorce processes: Traditional divorce (litigation); Mediated Divorce; and Collaborative Divorce.
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I will explain the law to help you with realistic expectations regarding potential outcomes;
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I will take a problem-solving approach and explore alternative solutions with you
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I will respect your time and financial resources
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I will provide you with updates and keep you informed about the progress of your case
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I will promptly respond to calls and emails
Education
1978
Juris Doctor (JD)
DePaul University College of Law
1975
Bachelors of Arts - Sociology and French Literature; Minor in Psychology
Northwestern University
Training in Collaborative Law Practice: 2006
Fellow: Collaborative Divorce Illinois
Certificate of Professional Achievement In Family and Divorce Mediation Training: De Paul University Center For Dispute Resolution, June 2021
Certified by Circuit Court Of Cook County Domestic Relations Division as G.A.L. and Child Representative – since 2001
Illinois State Bar Association
North Suburban Bar Association
Professional Background
Roselynn began her legal career as a staff attorney with the Legal Aid Bureau (now part of Metropolitan Family Services). She initially handled administrative hearings in the areas of employment, education, elder law, and utilities. Later she handled hundreds of divorce and contested child custody cases. In 1995 Roselynn was a co-founder of the family law firm of Coblitz, Don & Willis.In 2006 Roselynn began her current solo family law firm: Law Office Of Roselynn Gilbert Don
Community Involvement
Past Board Positions: Illinois Foundation Of Dentistry For The Handicapped; Cancer Care Foundation; Chronic Fatigue Society Of Illinois; North Shore Congregation Israel – Board of Trustees and Religious School Board; Safety Town; PTO Vice-President, Harper School in Wilmette; Chairperson Wilmette Community Nursery School; Current: Haven Youth And Family Services – Board member since 2008 and past President
Public Speaking
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Lilac Tree: Program speaker- parenting agreements; Divorce University Panel Moderator: Parenting Issues
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Cook County Domestic Relations Division Child Representative Seminar: “Interviewing Children"
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Skokie Valley Rotary: “Collaborative Divorce and the Rotary Four Way Test” “Divorce Portrayed In Movies”