Posted on January 31, 2025 in Divorce

The end of a marriage typically means you will have to make many difficult decisions about the future. One of the first legal decisions many people face is whether to pursue a divorce or an annulment. While both options bring a marriage to a legal close, they are key differences. The choice between the two depends on your unique situation, and understanding the differences can help you make the best decision for your circumstances. An Illinois family law attorney can help you determine which option will be in your best interest and work to protect your rights. 

What Is a Divorce?

Divorce is the legal dissolution of a valid marriage. In Illinois, a no-fault divorce can be granted when a couple claims that irreconcilable differences caused their relationship to break down. Irreconcilable differences are the only acceptable grounds for divorce recognized in Illinois; they can end the marital relationship, but acknowledge that the marriage was valid from the start.

Continue Reading ››

 Posted on January 30, 2025 in Spousal Maintenance

Divorce can bring many financial hurdles, especially if you are a stay-at-home parent who relies on your spouse's income. Spousal maintenance, or alimony, may help ease the transition by providing financial assistance. But how do courts determine eligibility, and what steps can you take to secure spousal maintenance? If you are a stay-at-home parent dealing with a divorce, a knowledgeable Illinois family law attorney can guide you through the process and advocate for your rights.

What Is Spousal Maintenance and Why Is It Important for Stay-at-Home Parents?

Commonly referred to as alimony, spousal maintenance is a court-ordered payment that one spouse provides to the other during or after a divorce to help balance financial differences. It allows the lower-earning spouse to maintain financial stability, particularly if they sacrificed career opportunities to raise children or manage the household. Stay-at-home parents may need to rely on spousal maintenance as they work toward becoming self-sufficient.

Continue Reading ››

 Posted on January 27, 2025 in Divorce

Deciding to file for divorce is never easy, but understanding the legal process can make it less overwhelming. In Illinois, the law takes a straightforward approach to divorce by recognizing only one legally valid reason for it: irreconcilable differences. This concept may sound simple, but what does it mean for your case? An Illinois divorce attorney can help you understand how state courts handle divorce and can help you make informed decisions about your future. 

What Are "Irreconcilable Differences" Under Illinois Law?

In Illinois, irreconcilable differences are the sole grounds for divorce. This term refers to a situation where a marriage has broken down, cannot be fixed, and continuing the marriage is not in the family's best interests.

Continue Reading ››

 Posted on January 23, 2025 in Child Custody

In family law cases that involve children, a Guardian ad Litem (GAL) can play a critical role in protecting a child’s best interests. But when might the court appoint one, and how do you know if your case needs a GAL? Whether you are in a high-conflict custody battle or dealing with allegations of abuse, understanding the purpose of a GAL can help you navigate the family court process. An Illinois family law attorney can advise you about whether a GAL could be beneficial for your case.

What Is a Guardian ad Litem?

A Guardian ad Litem is a neutral party, often an attorney, who is appointed by the court to represent a child’s best interests during legal proceedings. Unlike a legal guardian, a GAL does not take custody of the child, but rather examines the situation to determine what arrangements will serve the child’s well-being and reports his or her findings to the court.

Continue Reading ››

 Posted on January 21, 2025 in Divorce

Dividing assets during a divorce is challenging, and dividing debts can be equally complicated, if not more so. From credit card balances to mortgages, knowing how these financial obligations are split in a divorce is vital to ensuring a fair financial settlement. With the guidance of an Illinois divorce attorney, you can make sense of the process, protect your interests, and create a path toward financial stability.

What Is Marital Debt and How Is It Defined?

In Illinois, marital debt refers to financial obligations that have been incurred by either spouse during the marriage. These debts can include:

• Credit card balances

• Mortgage loans

• Car loans

  Continue Reading ››

 Posted on January 16, 2025 in Divorce

Child support payments play a vital role in sustaining a child’s well-being after parents separate or divorce. But life is unpredictable; jobs change, expenses fluctuate, and children’s needs evolve. When this happens, many parents may wonder whether child support payments can be adjusted. Navigating this process can be complex, so it is essential to consult with a lawyer. A knowledgeable Illinois family law attorney can help you pursue a fair outcome that aligns with your current situation.

What Are the Grounds for Modifying Child Support Payments?

In Illinois, child support payments can be adjusted if there is a substantial change in circumstances. Common reasons include:

• A significant income change: A job loss, pay cut, or considerable increase in earnings can justify a modification.

• A change in parenting expenses: If one parent’s financial obligations for the child, like healthcare or education costs, have increased or decreased significantly, this can be a reason to adjust child support.

  Continue Reading ››

 Posted on January 15, 2025 in Divorce

Divorce is a challenging life event that can have far-reaching consequences, including financial ones. While divorce itself does not directly change your credit score, the financial actions taken during and after a divorce can significantly impact your credit health. By understanding potential risks and properly planning, you can protect your credit score during this transitional period. An experienced Illinois family law attorney can guide you through the financial aspects of divorce to help minimize its impact on your financial future.

How Can Divorce Lead to Credit Problems?

Divorce often involves dividing marital debts and assets, which can result in financial complications. In Illinois, marital debts, just like assets, are subject to equitable distribution. This means they are divided fairly, but not necessarily equally. 

Continue Reading ››

 Posted on January 09, 2025 in Divorce

Divorce reshapes many aspects of life, including how parents plan for their children's futures. Divorced parents may face financial challenges when college is on the horizon, especially when juggling separate households and personal financial goals. 

Balancing your child's educational needs with your own stability requires careful financial planning, strategic budgeting, and a willingness to collaborate with your co-parent. Whether you are revisiting your divorce agreement or starting from the beginning, an experienced Illinois family law attorney can help you navigate college expenses without derailing your post-divorce financial plans.

What Are My Legal Obligations Under Illinois Law?

The Illinois Marriage and Dissolution of Marriage Act (IMDMA) can require divorced parents to contribute to their child’s college expenses. Courts might order parents to share costs such as tuition, room and board, books, and even medical expenses while the child attends college. These contributions are typically determined based on each parent’s financial situation, the cost of attendance, and the child’s academic performance.

Continue Reading ››

 Posted on January 08, 2025 in Divorce

Divorce can be both an emotionally and legally draining process. For some, the idea of starting a new relationship during this time might feel like a step forward. However, dating during a divorce can have significant consequences that may impact your case and well-being.

In Illinois, dating before your divorce is finalized can present certain risks within the legal framework of the family court system. If you have questions about dating while going through a divorce, an Illinois family law attorney can help you understand potential complications and help protect your interests.

What Are the Legal Implications of Dating During a Divorce?

Dating while your divorce is pending can have legal consequences. While it is not illegal in Illinois during a divorce, it is essential to understand how your actions might influence the legal process and key issues such as:

Continue Reading ››

 Posted on January 06, 2025 in Divorce

Divorce proceedings can be stressful and emotionally charged, especially when disputes arise over procedural matters like venue changes. A motion to change venue can significantly impact how your divorce case will proceed. It is very important to understand your rights and options when faced with a venue change request in order to protect your rights. A knowledgeable Illinois divorce attorney can help you navigate venue disputes and build a strong case.

What Is a Motion to Change Venue in Divorce?

A motion to change venue is a formal request to move a divorce case to a different court or judicial district. Venue disputes often occur in contested divorces where one spouse believes another location is more convenient or beneficial for him or her.

Under Illinois law, a divorce case is generally handled in the county where either spouse resides. However, a change in venue can be requested for reasons such as:

Continue Reading ››