Dedicated To Guiding Families Through Adoption

After overcoming ovarian cancer in her 20s, Shelley Ballard adopted her two children. Going through this trying process inspired her to pursue a legal degree and assist others who are similarly trying to grow their family through adoption. Ms. Ballard began practicing adoption law in 1988, and now has over 30 years of experience dedicated to adoption. She is passionate about guiding Illinois families through this complex and stressful process because she personally understands the great rewards that it can bring.

Learn more about Ms. Ballard by clicking on the link below:

Actively Working To Improve Adoption Laws

In addition to leading her own legal practice, Ms. Ballard is an integral part of the Illinois adoption community. She is very active within The Chicago Bar Association writing and promoting adoption legislation that benefits families. Ms. Ballard regularly contributes valuable content to Illinois’ adoption handbook and speaks at adoptive parent group events as well as the annual seminar for the Chicago Bar Association Adoption Law Committee.

Ms. Ballard has been a member of the Academy of Adoption & Assisted Reproduction Attorneys since 1990, serves as an adjunct professor at Loyola University School of Law, sits on the board of directors of the Midwest Adoption Center and previously served as the chair of The Chicago Bar Association Adoption Law Committee. Due to her extensive work, Ms. Ballard has been recognized as a top practitioner in adoption law by the Leading Lawyers Network, Lead Counsel and Super Lawyers.

Ms. Ballard graduated cum laude from Northwestern University School of Law in 1987 where she was elected to the Order of the Coif (top 10% of her class). She graduated magna cum laude from Vanderbilt University School of Engineering in 1979.

Contact Us For Experienced Guidance

When you work with Shelley B. Ballard PC, you secure the assistance of an attorney who thoroughly understands adoption and has the experience you need to resolve your concerns. We can help you navigate all types of adoptions, including domestic adoptions, foster care adoptions, relative adoptions, international adoptions, interstate adoptions, adult adoptions and more.

Call us at 312-820-5052 to discuss your adoption needs or contact us online. We have consultation offices located in downtown Chicago and in the northern suburbs. You may meet with us at whichever location is more convenient for your family. The Chicago office is easily accessible from the CTA bus or L’ train lines.

ADA Statement

In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, the firm will provide at no charge qualified sign language interpreters, or other auxiliary aids and services, when they are necessary for effective communication with deaf or hard-of-hearing clients, potential clients, companions, witnesses and other individuals involved in the ​client’s legal representation.