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Brigitte Bell
Practicing peaceful, constructive divorce and family resolutions through Collaborative practice & mediation since 1993.
Professional Background
Brigitte Bell is an esteemed attorney and mediator with an illustrious career spanning several decades in the legal field. Having opened her own practice in 1993, she focuses on family law and dispute resolution, dedicated to guiding her clients toward amicable resolutions without the need for courtroom confrontation. Brigitte's approach to addressing legal, emotional, and relationship issues is underscored by respect and privacy, ensuring a supportive environment for her clients during challenging times. Her commitment to this philosophy led her to discover Collaborative Practice, a methodology she felt aligned perfectly with her goals in resolving conflicts.
In addition to her private practice, Brigitte has made significant contributions to the legal community through her involvement in the Collaborative Law Institute of Illinois, where she served as a founding Co-President. Her role as chair of the Excellence and Best Practices Committee exemplifies her leadership in promoting high standards within the field of collaborative practices. Brigitte’s passion for mediation is further demonstrated by her ongoing volunteer work at the Center for Conflict Resolution in Chicago, where she has played a pivotal role in training future mediators and serving clients in need of conflict resolution.
Education and Achievements
Brigitte's educational background is rooted in prestigious institutions that laid the groundwork for her successful career in law. She studied for her Juris Doctor (J.D.) at the University of Chicago, a top law school that equipped her with the foundational knowledge and skills necessary to navigate the complexities of legal practice. Prior to her legal studies, Brigitte earned a Bachelor of Arts in Religion and German from Swarthmore College and further enriched her academic portfolio with studies in Educational Measurement and Statistics at the University of Iowa. This diverse educational background has enabled her to approach legal and judicial matters with both a critical analytical lens and an understanding of human relationships.
Brigitte is not only recognized for her legal expertise, but she also brings a personal touch to her work in adoption issues, having three now-adult adopted children.of her own. Her keen insights into the complexities faced by birth parents, children, and adoptive parents enable her to facilitate discussions around these sensitive matters amicably and thoughtfully. Brigitte has made it her mission to ensure that all parties involved in adoption can share their perspectives and navigate the intricate relationships that develop over time.
Career Journey
Brigitte's career began as a Litigation Associate at Jenner & Block, where she honed her skills in legal argumentation and case strategy. She later advanced to roles at McDermott Will and Emery and Pretzel & Stouffer, Chartered, where she specialized in family law issues and contributed significantly to various complex legal challenges. Throughout her career, Brigitte has consistently been recognized for her ability to approach conflicts with an ethical framework, reinforcing her standing as a respected mediator and collaborative professional.
In her tenure with the Center for Conflict Resolution, Brigitte not only served as a mediator but also took on roles as a Board Member and trainer. Her long-standing commitment to volunteerism and education in mediation showcases her dedication to fostering a culture of peaceful conflict resolution. This culminated in her being recognized on the Approved Mediator List at the Cook County Circuit Court's Domestic Relations Division, highlighting her exemplary qualifications in the field.
Achievements
Brigitte Bell's commitment to ethical conflict resolution and innovative mediation practices has not gone unnoticed. Her leadership roles within various organizations, including the Collaborative Law Institute of Illinois and the Center for Conflict Resolution, illustrate her dedication to the legal profession and her innovative approach to resolving disputes. By advocating for collaborative practices, Brigitte has paved the way for a new standard in family law and mediation, which prioritizes respect for all parties involved and aims to minimize the emotional toll of legal proceedings.
Her work continues to be recognized within the legal community, where she is frequently sought out as a speaker and trainer on ethical issues in conflict resolution and mediation strategies. Brigitte remains passionate about sharing her knowledge and experience with others, helping to cultivate the next generation of legal professionals who embrace the collaborative approach to dispute resolution. Her advocacy for adoption issues further demonstrates her holistic approach to family law, focusing on the best interests of children and families during times of transition.
In conclusion, Brigitte Bell is a lawyer and mediator distinguished by her commitment to resolving conflicts ethically and collaboratively. With a wealth of experience in family law and an educational background from top institutions, she has established herself as a leading figure in the field. Her contributions to the Collaborative Law Institute of Illinois and the Center for Conflict Resolution reflect her ongoing dedication to conflict resolution and positive outcomes for families. Brigitte’s ongoing volunteer efforts and focus on adoption issues further enrich her professional journey and commitment to supporting individuals and families during some of life's most challenging situations.
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