Posted on September 27,2024 in Illinois Divorce

During divorce proceedings, one of the most emotionally charged questions couples face is whether to fight for the marital home. For many, this residence signifies stability, memories, and the family unit. Consulting a qualified lawyer can provide invaluable insights into the various considerations that surround this decision.

Emotional Attachment vs. Practical Considerations

When weighing the decision to keep the marital home in an Illinois divorce, it is crucial to consider both emotional and practical factors:

• Emotionally charged memories – The home may hold significant memories, making it hard to let go.

• Sense of stability – Retaining the home can provide a sense of stability for children during a turbulent time.

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 Posted on September 20,2024 in Child Custody & Allocation of Parental Responsibility

In Illinois, when parents divorce, the issue of parental responsibilities — which includes making decisions about a child’s education — is addressed in the divorce decree. Parental responsibilities are divided into two main areas: decision-making and parenting time. Decision-making responsibilities cover significant aspects of a child’s life, including where they will attend school. 

In a divorce decree, the court may grant one parent sole decision-making authority, or both parents may share this responsibility, depending on what is in the best interests of the child. If both parents share educational decision-making, they must work together to agree on matters related to the child’s schooling, such as choosing between public or private schools, or deciding whether to continue the child’s current education plan. If you have questions about how educational decisions are addressed after divorce, a Kane County, IL child custody lawyer can help explain your rights and options.

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 Posted on September 12,2024 in Illinois Divorce

When faced with a divorce in Illinois, many people assume that court is the only way to resolve their issues. Yet, pursuing a settlement can lead to a more amicable dissolution of marriage, saving time and money. With the assistance of a diligent lawyer, you can create a more favorable and personalized outcome for yourself and your family. Here is how you can steer toward a divorce settlement instead of heading for court litigation.

Begin By Pursuing Open Conversations

The key to a successful settlement begins with honest discussions. Clear communication can bridge gaps and help to reduce tensions. Here are some tips on how to make that happen:

• Engage early – Talk about your feelings and concerns before escalating issues.

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 Posted on September 05,2024 in Illinois Divorce

Divorce can disrupt not only personal lives but also the financial foundations of a business. For business owners in Illinois, navigating the complications of a divorce requires careful and strategic planning to safeguard the company against the perils of Illinois divorce. Here are some key considerations to protect your business during your divorce. Discuss with a lawyer ways to ensure that your business survives the divorce and can function effectively before, during, and after your divorce.

Document the Source of Funds

One of the most effective ways to protect your business during a divorce is by thoroughly documenting the source of funds that were invested in the business. If you can clearly demonstrate that the capital used to start or grow your business originated from non-marital assets (such as inheritance or pre-marital income), it may help classify those funds as yours alone.

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 Posted on August 26,2024 in Illinois Divorce

Divorce is often described as one of life’s most challenging experiences, and concerns about financial fairness during the divorce can complicate the process even further. A significant worry for many is whether their spouse is concealing assets from them in order to avoid a fair settlement. Sadly, this type of deceit is often more common than many think.

Recognizing the signs that your partner may be hiding financial resources is crucial for ensuring his or her behavior is identified and stopped and that a fair settlement, which can only be achieved when all assets are accounted for, can be pursued. If you are concerned your spouse is hiding assets from you, bring up these concerns with your lawyer.

Signs that Your Spouse May Be Hiding Money Before Divorce

Strange or Unexplained Changes in Behavior

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 Posted on August 21,2024 in Child Support

Child support is a crucial aspect of family law intended to ensure that children's needs are met after a separation or divorce. For children with autism, understanding the specifics of child support in Illinois can be vital for ensuring children receive the support they need for their well-being. If you are getting a divorce and have a child with autism, discuss with your Illinois family law attorney how to handle the situation, always keeping in mind the importance of promoting your children's health and wellness.

Understanding Child Support Guidelines in Illinois

In Illinois, child support is determined based on legal guidelines that consider each parent's income, each child's needs, and the number of children involved. For families with children on the autism spectrum, it is important to recognize that their needs may be more complex than the typical child's, often requiring additional support for therapy, medical care, and educational services. Courts can account for these unique circumstances when determining the appropriate levels of support.

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 Posted on August 13,2024 in Family Law

The process of divorce can be very unpleasant, especially when there is a child custody dispute involved. When a child custody dispute is taking place, the most important concern for the court is determining what is in the best interests of the children involved. Parents often wonder how to set themselves up best to "win" the custody dispute. To increase your chances of a favorable outcome, it is important to present concrete evidence that highlights your role as a caregiver. To set yourself up for success, retain the services of a skilled attorney to help you win the custody battle and put yourself in a position to achieve a favorable settlement outcome.

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 Posted on August 06,2024 in Illinois Divorce

When it comes to prenuptial agreements, many people wonder if signing one reflects a lack of trust or faith in a relationship. In reality, a prenup can be a wise and proactive choice that strengthens a marriage. To learn more about the many benefits of signing a prenup, obtain the legal counsel of a family law attorney.

What You Need to Understand About Prenuptial Agreements

In Illinois, a prenuptial agreement, or prenup as they are commonly called, is a legal document two people sign before they get married. The document essentially outlines how assets and debts will be managed in the unlikely event of a divorce or separation. While the concept may seem inherently pessimistic, prenups serve as a form of protection that can actually enhance trust and communication in a marriage.

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 Posted on July 29,2024 in Family Law

In the midst of divorce, many parents rightly focus on child custody, child support, and spousal maintenance. Yet, for parents of non-minor children planning to attend college, one looming question often remains: "Will I need to pay for my non-minor child’s college education after a divorce in Illinois?" The straightforward answer is yes. Illinois laws allow the court to order parents to contribute to their child’s college expenses, ensuring that educational opportunities remain accessible. For guidance navigating your child’s college expenses after you have been divorced, contact a lawyer for assistance.

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 Posted on July 19,2024 in Illinois Divorce

Divorce is more than just the dissolution of a marriage; it is the untangling of two lives deeply intertwined both emotionally and financially. When significant financial assets are involved, divorce becomes incredibly complex. This is where hiring an Illinois divorce attorney who is also a Certified Financial Litigator (CFL) can be a game-changer. Here is why the knowledge of a CFL can make a significant difference in your divorce proceedings.

Deep Understanding of Financial Valuation

One of the biggest challenges in a high-stakes divorce is the accurate valuation of assets. CFLs possess enhanced knowledge in financial analysis and valuation. CFLs are adept at identifying, valuing, and categorizing marital assets, including businesses, real estate, investments, and retirement accounts. This enhanced knowledge ensures assets are fairly and accurately valued, preventing any potential undervaluation or overvaluation that could affect the settlement.

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