Illinois couples will get married with the intention that the union will last. Unfortunately, the divorce rates are such that it is just as likely that it will fail as it will succeed. People will frequently try to shield themselves from the possibility that there...
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How do I get a fair settlement in divorce?
You may be in the process of going through a divorce. Of course, there are many things to consider. You may be a parent, so you must contemplate your children's needs. You may be a homeowner and you need to figure out what happens to your property. You may also be...
How are visitation orders affected by a child’s best interests?
Parenting time is often one of the most contentious of family law issues, so understanding state law is imperative. A key factor in this is understanding the child's "best interests" and how the court will decide upon the allocation of parenting time. In some cases,...
Appeals court decides on custody case for same-sex couples
In Illinois and throughout the nation, courts are facing family law issues related to same-sex couples. These can be especially complex cases, with the changing landscape of how these relationships are viewed. This makes it important to watch legal decisions. It is of...
Experienced legal help is critical when thinking about divorce
When deciding to get a divorce in Illinois, there will undoubtedly be many questions and concerns that people will have. Such issues as allocation of parental responsibilities, formerly known as child custody, child support, alimony, how the division of marital assets...
Child custody laws in Illinois could be set to change
Parents in Illinois who part ways as a couple and share a child will undoubtedly be aware of the need for some form of child custody agreement. This is a strategy to address parental responsibilities, give the child an idea as to how the situation will play out as...
What is a Guardian Ad Litem?
If you are going through a divorce or custody dispute, then a guardian ad litem (GAL) is neutral third-party lawyer who is appointed by the Illinois court to act as the representative or “voice” for your child(ren). A GAL will look deeper into the issues facing the...
Can a child support order add expenses for child care?
The main objective behind a child support order in Illinois is to serve the best interests of the child. While the courts will seek to cover every eventuality, other factors come to the forefront based on the circumstances. One is if a parent needs to pay for child...
What is non-marital property with property division?
One of the most difficult issues to settle in an Illinois divorce case is property division. This is true whether it is a high asset divorce and there is significant property that both parties stake a claim to or if it is a more modest divorce and there are items of...
David Schaffer To Speak At IAFL International Family Law Conference
The International Academy of Family Lawyers (IAFL) will host an Open Conference on International Family Law this April 20-21, 2018 in New York City. Coming together on international issues This one and a half day open conference will focus on the concepts and practice...