Blended families-those families who have children from their previous relationships as well as from their current partnership- require more insight and communication. It can be difficult for children to shift from old rules, old homes and old friends and traditions to...
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What is right of first refusal with child custody in Illinois?
When an Illinois couple has a child and both parents share parental rights, there are certain issues that can be complicated when providing care and making decisions on the child's behalf. This is where the care of minor children and the right of first refusal when...
Property division disputes require experienced legal help
Illinois residents whose marriage is at its end will have many issues that must be settled as they seek to move forward. Some factors like child custody will be first and foremost on their minds. Next, however, financial matters will need to be settled. Property...
What if I am facing collection remedies for child support?
For Illinois parents who are obligated to pay child support to the custodial parent, it is important that the payments are made when they are supposed to and are paid in full. If there is an issue with the child support and the custodial parent seeks to receive it...
When is moving viewed as parental relocations in Illinois?
One of the most difficult issues to deal with in an Illinois divorce is if the custodial parent seeks to move away with the child. The noncustodial parent has the right to parenting time, but this can be made more difficult when there is a decision on the part of the...
What are the pros and cons of divorce mediation in Illinois?
Divorce mediation is an alternative to litigation that couples can choose to resolve issues. In Illinois, this method involves a neutral third party who assists the parties with resolving conflict. This mediator is responsible for facilitating communication between...
When can a person be charged with failure to pay spousal support?
One of the most difficult issues to navigate in an Illinois divorce is how much a supporting spouse must pay to the other spouse. Often, these situations can become contentious with the spouse obligated and ordered to pay child support failing to do so. It is illegal...
David Schaffer elected into The Fellows of the American Bar Foundation
David Schaffer of Schaffer Family Law, Ltd, in Naperville has been elected into The Fellows of the American Bar Foundation (ABF). This is a global honorary society of lawyers, judges, law faculty, and legal scholars. Fellows are elected by their peers and membership...
How does Illinois law treat property division in a divorce?
Property division disputes are common in many divorces in Illinois. This is true regardless of the financial circumstances. It can happen to people who have significant assets, those who are considered middle class and people who are of modest means. Oftentimes,...
Illinois ranked near the bottom for fathers’ parenting time
Parenting time is a major concern when parents in Illinois split up. After the relationship has concluded, many cases will involve disagreements regarding custody and visitation. As always, the best interests of children take precedence, but it is also important to...