Our Attorneys Are Advocates

Claire Khee (left) connects with clients across McHenry and Lake counties through her work with Strategic Divorce^TM, a family law firm founded by Michone Riewer (right).

At Strategic Divorce^TM, advocacy isn’t just something we do in the courtroom—it’s the foundation of every client relationship we build. We understand that behind every case is a person, a family, and a future that deserves thoughtful guidance, unwavering support, and strategic representation.

Our attorneys are committed to putting clients first, listening before advising, and fighting for solutions that protect what matters most. While every attorney brings their own experience and perspective to the table, they all share one common belief: exceptional advocacy begins with genuinely caring about the people we serve.

We’re proud to share this feature with you published in Northwest Living Magazine, in their June/July 2026 issue that highlights what it means to be an Advocate for our clients.

An Advocate For Families During Divorce By Chris Linden, Executive Editor

When you’re going through a divorce, you need an advocate who has your interests in mind. As a family law attorney, Claire Keefe finds joy in speaking up for clients. “We are advocating for people who don’t have a voice,” says Keefe, an attorney at Strategic Divorce^TM, a family law practice in Lake Bluff. “That brings me a lot of energy and excitement that I get to help people. Lots of people feel silenced and scared to say something and to move on with their lives amidst a divorce.”

Working from a position of empathy with strength, Keefe and the seven other attorneys at Strategic Divorce^TM prioritize listening and communicating. The practice is built upon the trademarked Strategic Divorce^TM Process, which uses five steps to walk clients through a divorce. It starts with a simple question: Where do you see yourself six months from now? “When it’s all done, it’s not like your life is over. It’s just starting a completely new chapter,” says Keefe. “We get to frame that for clients and help them to see their future.”

Since she joined the practice in August 2024, Keefe has helped many families to settle their differences. As one of two attorneys on every case, she drafts pleadings and handles research, communications, court appearances, trials and anything else the client needs. “We always have two attorneys on a case, so that if one attorney isn’t available then I’m available,” says Keefe. “It’s a big customer service piece. I’m here to make sure everyone is communicating.” Communication is a critical part of reaching a divorce settlement. There are many details to review, and there are often competing opinions. Keefe’s team works with an “amicable-first” philosophy that emphasizes agreement over conflict. It’s a critical advantage in McHenry County, where Keefe focuses much of her practice.

“You can’t walk into the court in McHenry County until you’ve had a discussion with opposing counsel attempting to get a resolution,” says Keefe. “I think that’s really important, because sometimes people forget when you’re fighting that you can always calm down for a second and say, ‘Let’s just figure this out together.’” Keefe grew up in Libertyville and has always had a special connection to McHenry County. In part, that’s thanks to her family’s auto dealership, Brilliance Honda of Crystal Lake and Brilliance Subaru of Elgin. She’s spent summers working alongside her father, Kevin, and her siblings: Thomas, James and twin sister Kelly. Like her family, Keefe is a big supporter of Anderson Humane of Elgin, where she and her husband, Mason Meadows, have rescued two dogs. She’s raising money on their behalf before she joins this October’s Chicago Marathon. Keefe is also a regular participant in the Veterans Path to Hope 5K. Keefe knew from an early age she wanted to be a lawyer, and that interest only grew as she studied at DePauw University in Indiana; she later earned her law degree at Indiana University before joining the bar. Michone Riewer, who founded Strategic Divorce^TM, was Keefe’s mentor throughout her school years.

Though she lives in Lake County, Keefe is never far from her McHenry County clients. Phone and Zoom calls come standard, and a personal visit is never out of the question. “If they call and say, ‘Can we meet an hour before our court date?’ or they don’t want to drive out to Lake Bluff, I will meet them anywhere,” says Keefe. “If they say, ‘Let’s meet in downtown Crystal Lake,’ that’s great. It gives me a chance to stop by and see my family, too.” Extra attention to the customer is what sets Strategic Divorce^TM apart from many other firms, and it shows in the happy clients who stay in touch, whether it’s dropping in for a casual visit, delivering lunch for attorneys or building Lego flowers as a thank-you. “When it’s resolved, the relief is so apparent,” Keefe says. “We just resolved a case yesterday and our client said the relief they felt was indescribable. It feels amazing to know that we can help someone and have such an impact on their lives.”