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...
Domestic And International Family Law Blog
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...
Amendment to Illinois law regulating parenting time proposed
For Illinois parents who have parted ways, custody and visitation is often one of the most difficult issues for them to hash out. Determining which parent will be the custodial parent, what the visitation plan will be, and how to assess best interests of children are...
When can my divorce be a joint simplified dissolution?
Not all Illinois divorces are contentious and complicated with emotional issues causing discord between the parties. In certain cases, the couple can resolve their issues without rancor and simply part ways and move on with their lives. Those whose circumstances are...
Tax season begins: what Illinois divorcees should know
Last December, just weeks before the start of the 2018 tax season, President Trump passed a new tax policy into law. Although the impact of this reform is mostly unknown, the Chicago Tribune reports that some changes may already be underway. Illinois residents who are...
Family law attorney David N. Schaffer earns 2018 Super Lawyers recognition
David N. Schaffer was selected for inclusion in 2018 Illinois Super Lawyers. Schaffer Family Law, Ltd. of Naperville, Illinois principal and founder David N. Schaffer has successfully handled numerous legal and family law issues for over the past 38 years. He is...