Rachel N. Hernandez
Founder, Collaborative Family Law, Mediation & Parenting Coordination
Rachel N. Hernandez is guided by a simple philosophy: Support, Not Court. Her work focuses on helping families resolve conflict and move forward with clarity through education, thoughtful guidance, and a team-based approach. She emphasizes informed decision-making and the integration of trusted professionals to support both the legal and human dimensions of family transitions.
Rachel began her career in a not-for-profit organization serving children and families in Kane County. She earned her J.D., as a Dean’s Scholar, from Northern Illinois University College of Law. Her experience as an Assistant State’s Attorney—handling cases involving child abuse, neglect, delinquency, domestic violence, and related matters—provides a strong foundation that continues to inform her work in family law.
With advanced training in interdisciplinary collaborative dispute resolution, including the Harvard Program on Negotiation, Rachel is known for her ability to guide families through complex parenting and family dynamics with clarity and steadiness. She is frequently appointed by the court to serve as a Guardian ad Litem and Parenting Coordinator, supporting the resolution of parenting matters with a focus on the best interests of the child.
An Experienced Collaborative Family Lawyer
Rachel is an active author, presenter, and trainer, contributing to organizations such as the Kane County Bar Association, Illinois State Bar Association, the International Academy of Collaborative Professionals, and Collaborative Divorce Illinois, as well as mediation and collaborative practice groups both locally and internationally. She also serves as a coach for Northwestern University’s School of Professional Studies Divorce Mediation Certificate Program.
She maintains active involvement in professional organizations including the Association of Family and Conciliation Courts and multiple bar associations across Northern Illinois. Rachel currently serves in leadership roles as Co-Chair of the Kane County Family Law Committee, Chair of the Illinois State Bar Association Solo and Small Firm Committee, and President of the NIU Alumni Council. Her professional involvement reflects an ongoing commitment to advancing thoughtful, process-driven approaches to family law.
Legal Solutions — Collaborative Family Law is grounded in the belief that families benefit from guidance that is thoughtful, respectful, and focused on long-term well-being. We work collaboratively with our clients to reduce conflict and support durable, well-considered outcomes during times of transition.
Every family’s situation is unique—and so is the path forward. Whether you are beginning the divorce process, exploring mediation, or seeking clarity on your options, the approach remains the same: listening carefully, understanding what matters most, and providing steady, thoughtful guidance along the way.