OVER 75 YEARS OF COMBINED PRACTICE

Family Law books on a desk in Essig Law Office, which practices family law in the Peoria IL area

Navigate Difficult Family Matters with Trusted Guidance

Family law often involves some of the most personal, emotional, and high-stakes decisions a person can face. Whether you’re considering divorce, navigating child custody, working through property division, or facing a legal matter intersecting with your family’s safety and stability, having the right attorney matters. You deserve a legal team that listens, explains your options clearly, and protects your rights at every step.

At Essig Law Office, our father-and-son team brings more than 75 years of combined legal experience, serving individuals and families across Washington, Peoria, Morton, Metamora, Eureka, and communities throughout Central Illinois. Located on Washington’s historic square, we provide honest, practical, and ethical legal support when life becomes complicated.

Our mission is simple: help you move forward with confidence.

From Divorce to Estate Planning: We’ve Got You Covered

From everyday legal needs to the most complex disputes, Essig Law Office offers a full spectrum of services to protect your family,
your future, and your rights under our family law services, including:

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Divorce

We offer guidance through every step, from filing through final judgment, with a focus on clarity, fairness, and long-term stability.

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Child Custody & Parenting Time

We protect parent-child relationships and advocate for arrangements that support children’s wellbeing.

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Property Division

We work to divide assets, debts, and marital property legally and equitably.

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Child Support & Spousal Support

We help establish or modify support orders based on Illinois law and your family’s changing needs.

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Paternity Cases

We help parents establish legal rights and responsibilities.

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Post-Judgment Modifications

We help update custody, support, or visitation when circumstances change.

A young couple ignore each other after visiting Essig Law Office, which practices family law in the Peoria IL area, including divorce

In addition, we provide a variety of legal services to meet all your needs, including:

  • Criminal Defense We provide representation for misdemeanors, felonies, and traffic offenses, ensuring your rights are protected.
  • Estate Planning From wills, trusts, powers of attorney, and probate services, we can help secure your family’s future.
  • Real Estate Law We handle residential and commercial real estate transactions, title work, closings, and legal disputes.
  • Personal Injury & Workers’ Compensation We provide advocacy for injured clients seeking compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and long-term recovery.

No matter the challenge, our firm offers the knowledge, integrity, and dedication you need to take the next right step.

Turning Confusing Legal Problems Into Clear Paths Forward

Legal issues can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to navigate them alone. Whether you need a compassionate divorce lawyer or a steadfast child custody attorney, these are some of the most frequent concerns that lead clients to our office:

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Difficult or Unexpected Divorce Situations

From contested divorces to financial disagreements to emotional conflicts, we help clients find clarity and resolution.

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Child Custody Concerns

Parents often worry about parenting time, decision-making rights, and how court decisions may affect their children. We guide families toward solutions that prioritize stability and wellbeing.

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Fair Property Division

Homes, retirement accounts, personal property, and debt can become complicated quickly. We ensure nothing is overlooked and your rights are fully protected.

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Legal Trouble or Criminal Charges

Mistakes or misunderstandings can snowball into serious consequences. We provide honest, informed defense strategies to protect your future.

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Planning for the Future

From drafting a will to transferring property to handling probate after a loved one’s passing, we help families prepare with confidence.

A Transparent Process That Puts You First

At Essig Law Office, we believe the legal process should never feel confusing. Our approach reflects decades of experience and a deep commitment to
serving our community with integrity.

  1. Start with a Personal Consultation We listen first. That means no rushing, no pressure. This is your opportunity to share your situation and learn your options.
  2. Honest Evaluation of Your Case We give you straightforward guidance, clearly explaining the legal paths available and what you can expect.
  3. Strategic Planning We prepare a plan tailored to your goals, whether it involves negotiating a settlement, preparing for litigation, or resolving a dispute out of court.
  4. Thorough Representation We handle every filing, deadline, and detail. Our team communicates consistently so you never feel in the dark.
  5. Resolution & Ongoing Support Even after your case concludes, we remain available for future updates, modifications, or legal needs.
A mother needing help from Essig Law Office, which practices family law in the Peoria IL area, wraps her kids in her arms after a child custody case

What You Gain With Essig Law Office on Your Side

Choosing the right family attorney makes a meaningful difference. With Essig Law Office, you can expect:

  • Experienced Guidance We have over 75 years of combined experience across family, criminal, estate, real estate, and injury law.
  • Honest, Ethical Representation We pride ourselves on clear communication and straightforward advice. You’ll never experience confusion or surprises.
  • Strong Community Roots As a longstanding part of Washington’s historic square, we understand the values and needs of Central Illinois families.
  • Full-Service Support Many family law cases intersect with estate planning, real estate, or criminal matters. Our broad experience ensures complete, connected guidance.
  • Personal Attention You always work directly with qualified attorneys, not a rotating team or remote call center.

Here for the People Who Make Central Illinois Home

We proudly represent a wide range of individuals and families throughout Washington, Peoria, and the surrounding communities. That includes the following:

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Individuals Facing Family Law Challenges

Whether you’re considering divorce, modifying custody, or protecting parental rights, we’re here to guide you.

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Parents Concerned About Their Children’s Future

We help with parenting plans, guardianship, paternity, and support modifications.

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Homeowners & Real Estate Clients

Buying, selling, or managing property in Central Illinois often requires legal clarity. Our team offers thorough real estate counsel.

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Clients Facing Criminal Charges

We represent individuals navigating DUIs, misdemeanors, felonies, and traffic violations with discretion and experience.

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Families Planning for the Future

Wills, trusts, powers of attorney, and probate guidance help families stay protected and prepared.

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Injured Workers & Accident Victims

We assist clients seeking rightful compensation for injuries and workplace accidents.

What Sets Essig Law Office Apart

As a father-and-son firm with deep local roots, Essig Law Office has earned the trust of Central Illinois families for generations. This unique dynamic allows us to combine decades of wisdom with fresh energy, providing a level of continuity and personal investment you won’t find elsewhere. Here’s what our office has to offer:

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More Than 75 Years of Combined Experience

Our longstanding presence means we’ve handled nearly every type of case. And we know how to navigate local courts and processes.

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Honest, Client-Focused Representation

We believe in ethical service, clear expectations, and straight answers. Your best interests always come first.

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Respect & Professionalism

From our attorneys to our support staff, we foster an environment built on courtesy, understanding, and reliability.

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Conveniently Located on Washington’s Historic Square

A trusted community law firm, rooted in tradition and dedicated to your future.

What Our Clients Say

In addition, we come highly recommended by our clients. We are grateful for the feedback from our community:

“Essig Law Office is a great law firm that always keeps the best interest of their clients in mind. I highly recommend this law firm for your legal and real estate need.”

Eric S.

“Very helpful and polite staff. Dean is extremely knowledgeable in a variety of different cases. I would highly recommend this law office.”

Nate

“Very helpful and polite staff. Dean is extremely knowledgeable in a variety of different cases. I would highly recommend this law office.”

Nate

Family Law FAQs

How long does a divorce take in Illinois?

Every divorce is different. Uncontested cases may resolve in a few months, while contested matters involving custody or property disputes may take longer. We help you understand timelines upfront.

How is child custody decided?

Illinois courts prioritize the best interests of the child. This includes factors such as stability, parental involvement, communication, and the child’s needs. We advocate strongly for fair, supportive parenting arrangements.

Do I need an attorney for property division?

Yes. Illinois follows equitable distribution, which means assets must be divided fairly, not necessarily equally. An attorney protects your financial future and ensures nothing is overlooked.

Take the Next Step: Talk to an Experienced Family Law Attorney

If you’re facing a legal challenge involving your family, your future, or your rights, you don’t have to go through it alone. Essig Law Office
is here to guide you with honesty, clarity, and the experience you deserve.

Your next step toward clarity starts with a conversation.