You may find yourself asking the question, “when is alimony awarded?” Alimony is awarded in Chicago or Des Plaines when one spouse requests it and can prove need, and the other spouse is capable of paying. For example, an income disparity can show a need for financial support if the lower-earning spouse would struggle after the divorce. Financial dependence, disability, parenting responsibilities, the standard of living during the marriage, and sacrifices one spouse made for the marriage can all contribute to need. Other ways for alimony to occur include a prenuptial agreement and when the spo ..read more

One question that frequently arises during divorce in Chicago is, “What is alimony?” Alimony, also called spousal maintenance, is a court-ordered payment made by one spouse to the other after a divorce. It’s intended to help maintain the accustomed standard of living. Alimony is gender-neutral and based on considerations such as standard of living, needs, income, and length of the marriage. These payments can be modified or terminated in several scenarios. Alimony Laws in Illinois The alimony laws in Illinois are flexible enough to allow for a range of situations. While the law provides guidel ..read more

Child custody agreements can lay the foundation for children to thrive under the support of both parents. The parents often share parenting time and decision-making in Illinois. Sometimes, though, one parent makes most or all of the major decisions, or has most of the time with the children. Understanding Child Custody Agreements Child custody agreements involve various nuances. They are not one-size-fits-all. What Are the Different Types of Child Custody in Illinois? Illinois has several types of child custody. For example, in sole custody, one parent has most or all of the decision-making au ..read more

What to bring to a divorce consultation should include financial documents, such as both spouses’ proof of income, recent tax returns, bank statements, and credit card statements. It is also helpful to bring a list of questions, particularly about any nuances your case might involve, such as a family-owned business. Being prepared can ensure your attorneys have the details to give you the most accurate information possible. What Is the Process of a Divorce Consultation in Illinois? Most divorce lawyers offer a free initial consultation for potential clients. A consultation is like an interview ..read more

Finding hidden assets in divorce often involves your own research and professional expertise, such as that of a forensic accountant. Often, the first step involves one spouse noticing changes in spending patterns or even looking at tax returns and inadvertently discovering previously unknown sources of income. The income could be from a source close to home in Chicago or Des Plaines, or from across the world. Bank account and credit card statements can be revealing, too. Discovering Hidden Assets in Illinois Divorces It is fairly common for spouses to hide assets in a divorce and not share the ..read more

Whether divorce mediation vs. arbitration in Chicago is better for you depends on the level of conflict, the amount of control you want over the outcome, and the degree of finality you desire. Mediation could be a good path if you can communicate reasonably well and cooperatively with your spouse. However, agreements are nonbinding. An arbitrator’s decision is binding and offers a resolution. That can be a relief when you are having a hard time reaching an agreement. Understanding Divorce Mediation Divorce mediation is cooperative, with an emphasis on open communication, negotiation, and agree ..read more

In Illinois, child support does not cover extracurricular activities, but courts can make separate decisions related to them. Child support is meant to cover a child’s basic needs such as food, housing, and clothing. It does not include daycare, summer camp, school fees, and the like. However, courts can order a parent to pay some or all of these costs and other above-and-beyond expenses, such as extracurricular activities. What Does Child Support Cover in Illinois? Illinois child support covers food, clothing, and shelter (a safe home). These are basic living expenses and do not include extra ..read more

Important items to include on a divorce checklist in Illinois are financial paperwork such as pay stubs, bank accounts, and tax returns, records and inventories of property and whether they are separate or marital, and various child-related considerations. Key overall steps may include hiring a divorce attorney, filing the petition, and attending court hearings. Important Steps to Take When Getting Ready for a Divorce It’s critical to prepare for what is often a difficult and emotional process. Illinois residents must follow specific steps as well as general steps that apply to anyone getting ..read more

One of the first steps in creating an Illinois parenting plan for Chicago or Des Plaines is to gather relevant information about your children, such as their school schedules, extracurricular activities, and other needs. This information helps you, your lawyer, and your ex create a plan that is in the children’s best interests. What Is a Parenting Plan? When a marriage that involves minor children ends, joint custody and parenting plans are common. The plans have multiple goals, including reducing conflicts, promoting cooperation between parents, and providing stability and structure for the c ..read more

Parent alienation in divorce occurs when one parent tries to damage the relationship or attachment between their children and the other parent. For example, one parent may lie to their children by saying that the other parent did not show up for a visit when one was not even scheduled. Over time, the children may develop feelings of animosity or even hate. This type of alienation can be emotionally destructive for parents and their children. A family law attorney may be able to help. What Is Parental Alienation? Parent alienation in divorce is not always clear-cut. Some people mistake it for e ..read more