| Attorney Profiles - Child:Mike Alvarado |
Michael P. AlvaradoAssociate malvarado@davisfriedman.com "Clients appreciate how my creative solutions can resolve a situation so that both parties are satisfied," says Michael Alvarado, a man of infectious enthusiasm and good humor. "Some of those settlements may involve substituting something else for cash." In one case, he represented a fashion retailer and the other attorney kept going back and forth about the money. "Finally, I suggested we pay his client with high-end merchandise from my client's shop. The other attorney's client was happy to accept those goods instead of a cash payment." Alvarado notes his accounting degree has given him an advantage in the legal profession: "I like communicating with people and dealing with numbers, so this seems like a perfect fit. When my client and I are collaborating to determine what settlement will be acceptable, it sometimes helps to focus simply on the value of assets because it can reduce a client's emotional involvement in his or her case." In addition, Alvarado works with other lawyers at the firm to provide a thorough analysis of complex financial matters. "Tax returns and statements of regular income, for instance, often do not tell the whole story about what might be a fair settlement. And having a clear understanding of what's actually earned now and in the future as well as assets held can make a considerable difference for child support and division of assets," he states. Alvarado finds there are important facts most people don't know about divorce until they are in the middle of one, "and then it could be too late." He says, "Divorce law is complicated. People often do not know what is considered their marital or non-martial property until they start to dissolve their marriage. They need to have all the facts before they make very important decisions. In addition to the letter of the law, there are other emotional considerations that can influence a settlement," he explains. Whether a client is wealthy or near poverty, there are always financial considerations, Alvarado observes. "We must keep in mind how difficult this time is for our clients. I try to infuse humor when it's appropriate, and I think most clients appreciate it. It lightens up the mood a bit, and that helps. Psychologists compare going through a divorce to losing a loved one. In both, you go through stages of anger, denial and bargaining." With a young family himself, Alvarado says, "Sometimes clients beg to get their spouse back. If I think there is a chance for reconciliation, I advise them to see a marriage counselor. During the last five years, two of my clients have reconciled during the divorce process." |
Alvarado always tells his new clients that, as they've heard on TV, anything you say can and will be used against you. "I used Facebook against a client's husband who tried to claim he had no money, but had posted photos of himself at a Cubs game and a Bears game. Facebook also proved that he was lying when he claimed he wasn't seeing anyone." Alvarado explains, "I've focused on family law since the start of law school in 2004 when I clerked for a judge in domestic relations. Practicing family law makes it possible for me to use my skills to help people." Like his colleagues at Davis Friedman, Alvarado finds that every case is unique. "And every partner here is also different. We have distinctive styles and a wide variety of experience. I've worked with every partner. The attorneys here are very knowledgeable, as well as honest and trustworthy. And they truly have the goal of helping clients." Admitted to the Bar2007, Illinois EducationIllinois State University, B.S. in Accounting, 2004 Professional MembershipsChicago Bar Association, Family Law and Health and Wellness Committee AccomplishmentsRising Star SuperLawyers, 2010 and 2011 Community InvolvementVolunteer, Timothy's Ministry in Arlington Heights, Illinois which sponsors bi-weekly luncheon program for homeless men |
