It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Charles Fleck, a named partner of Schiller DuCanto & Fleck, on Friday, March 1, 2024. His loss is deeply felt by his family, colleagues, and the countless lives he touched throughout his distinguished career.

As a former Illinois state legislator and Chief Presiding Judge of the Domestic Relations Division of the Cook County Circuit Court, Charles brought unparalleled insight and experience to the practice of family law. His three terms in the Illinois General Assembly, during which he chaired the Domestic Relations Subcommittee, shaped critical legislation, including the Illinois Marriage and Dissolution of Marriage Act. His contributions to the legal framework governing family matters continue to impact countless lives.

Joining Schiller DuCanto & Fleck in 1982, Charles's impact on our firm and the legal community was profound. He represented a diverse array of clients, including business professionals, athletes, entertainers, and their spouses. Charles's time on the bench uniquely equipped him to navigate complex legal issues with precision and compassion, earning him a reputation as a formidable advocate and mediator.

Co-Founding Partner, Donald Schiller, said, “Charlie and I were contemporaries. Our fathers were friends, and we really came to know each other while in law school. His infectious smile and zest for life were matched only by his exceptional talents in Family Law. As a Legislator and Chief Judge in Domestic Relations, he was an outstanding problem solver and Judge. Joe DuCanto and I were honored to have him join our firm, and his contributions were integral to our success. God bless Charlie, and may he rest in peace.”

Charles possessed a rare and invaluable perspective in the field of family law, blending his extensive legal expertise with a profound commitment to public service. Graduating from Valparaiso Law School with a Juris Doctor in 1967 and earning his Bachelor of Arts from Northwestern University in 1963, Charles's academic achievements laid the foundation for a remarkable career dedicated to serving others.

“Charlie was an amazing lawyer and a patient and loving mentor. He never took himself too seriously and had a wonderful sense of humor. What I remember most about Charlie is that he was an amazing storyteller and could conger a tale to fit any occasion—or to make any point that needed to be made. Charlie’s ethos will forever be a part of our firm, and he will be missed,” said Managing Partner Meighan Harmon.

Certified by the Lake County Circuit Court as both a Mediator and Child Representative, Charles demonstrated a commitment to serving the best interests of children and families in contested custody cases. His dedication to his clients was unwavering, and his ability to mediate and resolve disputes with integrity and fairness set a standard of excellence in the legal profession.

Charles's contributions to public service and his clients earned him numerous accolades and recognitions throughout his career. Town & Country Magazine recognized him as one of the country's foremost matrimonial lawyers, and he was consistently listed in the Best Lawyers in America since 1984. In 2011, he was honored as the Chicago Area Family Lawyer of the Year, a testament to his exceptional skill and dedication.

Beyond his professional achievements, Charles will be remembered for his kindness, integrity, and dedication to the legal community. His legacy of service and his impact on the legal profession will continue to inspire generations to come. He will be deeply missed but fondly remembered as a beloved colleague, mentor, and friend.

Charles’s long-time legal assistant, Maria Johnson, said, “I had the honor and privilege of working with Charlie from 2002 until he retired in 2020. Charlie was a true gentleman who treated everyone equally and respectfully. He was brilliant, knowledgeable, kind, generous, and caring. He shared stories of his family, time on the Bench, the early days at SDF, and he always would make us laugh. His absence is deeply felt in our Lake Forest Office.”

A Celebration of Life will be held for Charles at the Pelican Bay Club on Friday, March 8, 2024, at 12:00 p.m. in Naples, Florida.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to Hello Baby in Charles’ memory.