Biography

Education

B.A., English, Spelman College (Atlanta, GA)
J.D., The Catholic University of America – Columbus School of Law (Washington, DC)
Certified Mediator, The Center for Conflict Resolution (Chicago, IL)

Kimberly A. Cook, Esq. is a distinguished mediator and attorney at Schiller DuCanto & Fleck, LLP, where she excels as a problem solver and strategic negotiator. Driven by a deep commitment to ensuring her clients are educated and empowered throughout the divorce process, Kimberly equips individuals with the tools necessary to make informed decisions for themselves and their families both during and after the divorce.

Kimberly's practice is guided by compassion, composure, and clarity. Known for her grace under pressure, discretion, and effective problem-solving, Kimberly has a proven track record of being a trustworthy advocate for her clients. Kimberly's composure shines through when navigating challenging situations, delicate subjects, and diverse personalities. Her ability to manage people through complex decisions with generational impact is a testament to her skill and dedication.

Kimberly’s exceptional people skills makes her adept at communicating complex and sensitive information in a relatable way. Her self-motivation, collaborative spirit, and problem-solving prowess make her a skilled relationship builder. Kimberly prides herself on her ability to cultivate an approach to problem-solving taking into consideration each individual and family’s unique needs and interests to achieve a common goal.

Kimberly’s compassion extends to her work as a culturally competent lawyer and advocate for all families, regardless of race, nationality, sexuality, or gender identity. Her unwavering belief that every person deserves to be seen, heard, and treated with respect is the foundation of her practice. Kimberly's dedication to mentoring the next generation of lawyers is evident in her active role as an Adjunct law professor, mentor, speaker, and podcast host.

Kimberly earned her B.A. in English from Spelman College and her J.D. from The Catholic University of America – Columbus School of Law. During law school, she honed her skills as a judicial intern for the Honorable Gerald B. Lee of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia and the Honorable John Mott of the Superior Court of the District of Columbia - Domestic Relations Division.

Recognized for her legal expertise, Kimberly has been honored with numerous awards, including being named in Super Lawyers Magazine since 2013, a 40 Under 40 Illinois Lawyer to Watch, and listed in The Best Lawyers in America. Her insights and work have been featured in notable publications such as the Chicago Daily Law Bulletin, Chicago Lawyer Magazine, Crain’s Chicago Business, Black Enterprise, Thrive Global, and Business Insider.

Kimberly is a member of the Black Women Lawyers Association, the American Bar Association, the Economic Club of Chicago, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., Jack and Jill of America, Inc., and a Fellow of the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers. Kimberly is also the host of the Grown Girl Divorce podcast.

For more information or to schedule a consultation, Kimberly can be reached via email at kcook@sdflaw.com or by phone at 312-609-5514.

Honors and Awards

• Super Lawyer (2020-2025)
• Crain’s Chicago Business: Notable Minorities In Law (2020; 2018)
• Leading Lawyers Network (Leading Lawyers 2018 – 2022; Emerging Lawyers 2015 – 2017)
• Best Lawyers In America (2015 – 2022, 2025)
• Illinois Super Lawyers (Super Lawyer 2020 - 2022; Rising Star 2011 – 2019)
• Chicago Defender “Women Of Excellence” Honoree (2015)
• Law Bulletin Publishing Company “40 Under 40” (2013)
• Illinois Supreme Court Committee On Jury Instructions (Civil Cases); Appointed (2017-2019 Term)

Admissions

• Illinois
• Maryland 

Memberships

• Fellow, American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers

• American Bar Association (Section(s): Dispute Resolution; Family Law)

• Jack and Jill of America, Inc.

• Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.

• Black Women Lawyer’s Association

• Economic Club of Chicago

Publications