Introduction to Petersen Law & QDROs LLC

Cynthia Petersen is the driving force behind Petersen Law & QDROs LLC, a legal practice specializing in navigating the intricate landscape of retirement plan divisions amidst divorce proceedings. Amid the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, Cynthia ventured into entrepreneurship, establishing Petersen Law & QDROs LLC on April 20, 2020. With a wealth of experience and unmatched dedication, Cynthia offers comprehensive services ranging from consultation and drafting to litigation, ensuring the protection of clients’ retirement assets and equitable distribution within families.

Prior to embarking on her entrepreneurial journey, Cynthia honed her skills at a prestigious benefit consulting firm near Chicago, where her profound understanding of ERISA and plan regulations was recognized. Her passion for the legal field blossomed during her tenure as a customer service representative at that firm, a pension/401(k) plan sponsor, where she discovered a penchant for working with statutes and the rules of law. Armed with 26 years of experience in the legal profession, Cynthia has weathered moments of frustration, drawing strength from her unwavering focus on immediate goals and overcoming obstacles with resilience.

A pivotal moment in Cynthia’s career was her oral argument before the Illinois Appellate Court—an unforgettable milestone that underscored her exceptional legal acumen and left an indelible mark on her professional journey.

Adapting to New Horizons

Relocating to a quaint town nestled between bustling tourist attractions, Cynthia found herself in a unique position to contribute to its revitalization. Despite its hidden gem status, the town often went unnoticed by passersby on the adjacent highway. Determined to leverage the town’s potential, Cynthia spearheaded efforts to foster community enthusiasm and transform it into a thriving destination.

In her new locale, Cynthia swiftly earned the moniker of “the lawyer” following the retirement of the town’s sole full-time attorney. While she diversified her practice to encompass real estate transactions, estate planning, and resolution of contractual disputes, Cynthia’s primary focus remained on the division of retirement plans in divorce proceedings. Renowned for her expertise in crafting meticulous orders such as Qualified Domestic Relations Orders (QDROs), Cynthia’s impact transcends local boundaries, with her serving as an expert witness. Her dedication to ensuring optimal outcomes for clients is reflected in her meticulous attention to detail, both in drafting orders and advising attorneys on settlement language.

Recently sworn in as the President of the local Chamber of Commerce, Cynthia is poised to leverage her leadership role to foster business growth and community development. Driven by a profound sense of purpose, Cynthia’s overarching goal is to enrich the lives of those around her and cultivate an environment where businesses thrive.

Innovative Practices

Cynthia harnesses the power of cutting-edge technology to streamline her legal practice. From law firm software to online payment platforms, PDF fillers, and legal research tools, she employs a diverse array of digital resources to enhance efficiency and deliver exceptional service to her clients.

Evolution of Cynthia’s Online Communication

In today’s fast-paced world, online communication serves as the linchpin for swift responses and meticulous record-keeping, a cornerstone of Cynthia’s practice. Facilitating seamless interactions with her clients, Cynthia relies on secure electronic intake forms for gathering crucial information, ensuring efficiency and confidentiality. By embracing digital communication channels, Cynthia empowers her clients to entrust their cases to her care, knowing they are comprehensively supported without the constraints of physical office visits.

Relocating and Expanding Horizons

The year 2021 marked a significant chapter for Cynthia as she relocated her practice and family to Galena, Illinois, driven by a desire for expansion and a deeper connection to the Northwest Illinois region. Enamored by the area’s scenic beauty, vibrant community, and flourishing art and wine scene, Cynthia found solace in the opportunity to express her artistic sensibilities alongside her legal pursuits. Transitioning from a small house to a larger home symbolized not just a physical move but a profound shift towards embracing a lifestyle that harmonized her personal passions with her professional endeavors.

As the primary legal authority in a small town following the retirement of the previous attorney, Cynthia found herself embraced by the community, a testament to her invaluable contributions and commitment to serving the needs of those around her.

Distinctive Aspects of Cynthia’s Practice

Specializing in retirement plan division within divorce proceedings sets Cynthia apart in the legal landscape of Illinois. With only a handful of attorneys focusing on this niche area of law, Cynthia’s expertise not only fulfills a critical need but also positions her as a sought-after speaker and educator. Her dedication to sharing insights and knowledge ensures that attorneys and judges are equipped with the requisite understanding to navigate complex issues and secure optimal outcomes for their clients.

Utilizing Expertise in ERISA and Retirement Planning

Drawing from her background as a customer service representative in a benefit consulting firm, Cynthia possesses an intimate understanding of ERISA regulations and retirement plan intricacies. Collaborating closely with legal departments, Cynthia meticulously evaluates Qualified Domestic Relations Orders (QDROs), ensuring their compliance with plan provisions. Transitioning seamlessly into her role as an attorney specializing in family law, Cynthia leverages her wealth of experience to draft precise orders and negotiate equitable divisions, thereby safeguarding her clients’ interests with unwavering diligence.

Client-Centric Approach

Central to Cynthia’s practice is a profound commitment to her clients’ well-being. Prioritizing open communication and transparency, Cynthia ensures that clients are fully informed about their options and empowered to make informed decisions. By nurturing a supportive environment where clients feel heard and understood, Cynthia fosters trust and cultivates enduring relationships. Beyond her expertise in retirement plan divisions, Cynthia extends her services to real estate transactions and basic estate planning, enriching her practice with a holistic approach tailored to meet her clients’ diverse needs.

“In today’s fast-paced world, online communication serves as the linchpin for swift responses and meticulous record-keeping, a cornerstone of Cynthia’s practice.”

Company: Petersen Law & QDROs LLC
Website: petersenlawandqdros.com
Founder: Cynthia Petersen
Email: info@petersenlawandqdros.com