Legal Team
Carlos M. Arteaga – Managing Attorney
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Carlos understands the value of hard work, a lesson he learned at a young age as he helped run his father’s landscaping company while his parents worked to establish a new life in the United States. This experience taught Carlos the importance of dedication and perseverance, qualities that have served him well throughout his legal career.
Carlos completed his undergraduate studies at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and graduated, magna cum laude, from Northern Illinois University College of Law. Throughout his education, Carlos developed a deep understanding of the law and the legal process, which he uses to help his clients navigate the often-complex world of legal affairs.
Carlos is a dedicated attorney who has a passion for helping his clients navigate the complexities of the legal system. With a strong background in family law, Carlos is well-equipped to handle a wide range of cases and provide his clients with the guidance and support they need to achieve their goals. At his law practice, Carlos values the trust that his clients place in him. He works tirelessly to provide them with the best possible representation and support, always striving to achieve the best possible outcome in their cases.
In his free time, Carlos enjoys a variety of hobbies and interests, including fishing, kayaking, reading, and playing tabletop miniature games. He also enjoys trying new recipes for dinner, to varying degrees of success. These activities help him stay connected to the world around him and recharge after a busy day at the office.
If you’re looking for an attorney who is dedicated, knowledgeable, and committed to your success, look no further than Arteaga Law, LLC. Contact our office today to learn more about how he can help you achieve your legal goals.
Current Memberships
Illinois State Bar Association
Primary Practice Areas
Family Law (Divorce, Parentage, Child Support)
Collaborative Divorce
Pre and Post Nuptial Agreements
Estate Planning and Probate
Adult and Minor Guardianships
Orders of Protection
Real Estate Transactions
Geographic Areas
McHenry County
Lake County
Kane County
DuPage County
Kendall County
DeKalb County
Cook County
Additional Languages
Spanish
Christine S. Janis – Senior Associate Attorney
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Christine’s focus as an attorney is on helping her clients through the most difficult situations life offers. Whether her clients are facing criminal charges, the end of a marriage, issues related to children, or end of life concerns, Christine’s passion for helping them through these issues is evident through her honesty, patience, and ability to make even the most complex legal issues make sense to her clients.
Christine attended the Northern Illinois University College of Law, where she graduated cum laude with Juris Doctorate degree. During her tenure at NIU College of Law, she earned a Certificate in Criminal Practice. She also served as an intern for the Kane County State’s Attorney’s Criminal, Misdemeanor and Traffic division, as judicial intern in the Eighteenth Judicial Circuit of DuPage County, and as a summer law clerk for the Honorable Michael Burke, former justice with the Second Appellate District.
Prior to law school, Christine earned a B.A. and M.A. from NIU, where she taught in the Sociology Department for 15 years. Christine continues to maintain close ties with NIU, serving as a member of the NIU College of Law Alumni Council and continuing to volunteer for law school writing classes and mock trial competitions. Outside of the courtroom, Christine is a self-proclaimed foodie and wanderer who enjoys traveling, experimenting with new and exciting cuisines, and spending time with family and friends. She is also passionate about animals and is an active supporter of several local animal shelters and rescue organizations.
Current Memberships
Illinois State Bar Association
DuPage County Bar Association
Kane County Bar Association
Phi Alpha Delta, West Suburban Chapter
Primary Practice Areas
Family Law (Divorce, Parentage, Child Support)
Estate Planning and Probate
Adult and Minor Guardianships
Name Changes (Adult and Juvenile)
Geographic Areas
DuPage County
Kane County
Kendall County
DeKalb County
Cook County
Lake County
McHenry County
Kassandra R. Morfin – Associate Attorney
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Kassandra R. Morfin is a dedicated Associate Attorney at our firm, committed to fostering an attorney-client relationship built on open communication, mutual trust, and the pursuit of shared goals. Her approachable demeanor and unwavering dedication make her an invaluable advocate for her clients.
Kassandra is well-versed in various areas of family law, including parental responsibilities (formerly referred to as “custody”), child support, divorce, prenuptial and postnuptial agreements, and estate planning. She is also experienced in minor and adult guardianships, as well as decedent’s estates. Additionally, Kassandra is a court-approved Guardian ad Litem in Lake and McHenry County.
Kassandra brings a wealth of experience and recognition to her role. She is an active member of the Illinois State Bar Association (ISBA) and American Bar Association (ABA). She was elected by her peers to serve a second term on the ISBA’s Young Lawyers Division (YLD) Council for the 2024-2025 year and was recently elected as YLD’s American Bar Association Delegate for the same term. On the ABA, Kassandra also serves as a Liaison to the Standing Committee on Continuing Legal Education. These prestigious roles underscore her commitment to professional excellence and her active participation in the legal community.
Kassandra completed her undergraduate studies at Lake Forest College in 2016 before earning her Juris Doctor from UIC Law School, formerly known as The John Marshall Law School, in 2021. During her time at UIC Law, she demonstrated exceptional leadership and initiative by founding and serving as president of the First Generation Law Student Association and serving as president of the Children and Family Law Society. She was also among 257 students recognized as part of the Chancellor’s Student Service and Leadership Awards, which honor students who have made outstanding contributions to the University through campus and community service.
Kassandra previously participated in the Chicago Bar Association’s (CBA) Symphony Orchestra (Violin II) and hopes to join again soon. Her musical talents, combined with her love for the arts, reflect her multifaceted personality.
Outside of her legal practice, Kassandra enjoys a variety of creative and recreational pursuits. She is an accomplished musician who plays both the guitar and violin, and she finds joy in building intricate LEGO sets. A lifelong learner, Kassandra enjoys reading, attending music concerts and festivals, participating in lively karaoke nights, and exploring new destinations through solo travel.
Kassandra’s enthusiasm, professionalism, and personal interests bring a unique perspective to our team, and we are proud to have her as part of our firm.
Current Memberships
Illinois State Bar Association
American Bar Association
Lake County Bar Association
McHenry County Bar Association
Kane County Bar Association
Hispanic Lawyers Association of Illinois
Gamma Phi Omega International Sorority, Inc.
Primary Practice Areas
Family Law (Divorce, Parentage, Child Support)
Pre and Post Nuptial Agreements
Estate Planning and Probate
Adult and Minor Guardianships
Real Estate Transactions
Geographic Areas
DuPage County
Kane County
Kendall County
DeKalb County
Cook County
Lake County
McHenry County
Guardian ad Litem in the following Counties
Kane County
Lake County
McHenry County
Additional Languages
Spanish
Mariela Guzman – Associate Attorney
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Mariela Guzman is an Associate Attorney with Arteaga Law, LLC who brings extensive courtroom experience, strong advocacy skills, and a client-centered approach to her legal practice. She is committed to guiding clients through difficult legal matters with clear communication, empathy, and thoughtful strategy. Mariela approaches each case with the goal of resolving disputes quickly and efficiently while remaining fully prepared to advocate for her clients in court when necessary.
Before entering private practice, Mariela served for several years as an Assistant State’s Attorney in Cook County, where she litigated hundreds of contested criminal pre-trial and post-trial matters. She managed a high-volume misdemeanor courtroom and later worked in the appellate division, drafting briefs for cases before the First District Appellate Court of Illinois. Her experience working closely with victims and families during difficult circumstances strengthened her ability to explain complex legal processes clearly and help individuals make informed decisions during stressful situations. These skills translate directly into her family law practice, where she focuses on helping clients navigate emotionally challenging legal issues with confidence and clarity.
Mariela earned her Bachelor of Science in Political Science and Urban Studies from Elmhurst University and later attended The John Marshall Law School, now the University of Illinois Chicago School of Law, where she graduated in the top ten percent of her class.
During law school, Mariela held leadership roles in Law Review, the Moot Court Honors Board, and the Trial and Alternative Dispute Resolution Council. She also competed in the Uvaldo Herrera National Moot Court Competition and the American Bar Association Labor and Employment Law Student Trial Advocacy Competition. In recognition of her advocacy skills, she was selected as one of ten graduating recipients of the Order of Barristers and earned a Certificate in Trial Advocacy.
Mariela is bilingual and fluent in both English and Spanish. She is passionate about connecting with clients from diverse backgrounds and helping them understand their legal options.
Outside of her legal practice, Mariela enjoys traveling and learning about different cultures. She studied abroad in Barcelona, Spain, and later studied Human Rights Law in Costa Rica, where she visited the Inter-American Court of Human Rights. In her free time, Mariela enjoys go-karting, off-road four wheeling, mini golf, bowling, reading dystopian novels, watching Broadway plays, and spending time with family and friends.
Current Memberships
Illinois State Bar Association
DuPage County Bar Association
Kane County Bar Association
Primary Practice Areas
Family Law (Divorce, Parentage, Child Support)
Pre and Post Nuptial Agreements
Estate Planning and Probate
Adult and Minor Guardianships
Geographic Areas
DuPage County
Kane County
Kendall County
DeKalb County
Cook County
Lake County
McHenry County
Additional Languages
Spanish
Karen Y. Conejo – Legal Assistant / Receptionist
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Karen Y. Conejo plays a vital role as a Legal Assistant and Receptionist at our firm. With a strong background in customer service and a dedication to excellence, Karen brings professionalism and warmth to our team.
Karen is currently completing her Associate in Arts degree and has already excelled in foundational legal courses which introduce core legal concepts, as well as take a deeper dive into Family Law. As a testament to her commitment to growth, she is actively pursuing her Autism Technician Certification and has become a Notary Public, further enhancing her skills and expertise.
Passionate about making a positive impact, Karen is involved with the Autism Hero Project in Elgin and has a deep interest in staying informed on immigration updates. Her nurturing spirit extends to her personal life, where she is a proud mother and a supportive sister.
Outside of work, Karen enjoys creative pursuits such as baking and decorating pastries, as well as exploring the outdoors and discovering new culinary experiences as a true foodie. She also finds inspiration in self-improvement books.
Karen’s meticulous attention to detail and her 2020 Customer Service Award from Hyer Up Solutions Inc. reflect her dedication to providing exceptional service. We are proud to have Karen as part of our team, where her skills, enthusiasm, and compassion shine every day.
Additional Languages
Spanish