As family law attorneys with years of experience, we understand the complexities of divorce and separation, especially when children are involved. In this post, we will delve into the concept of a nesting arrangement, explore its advantages and disadvantages, and provide strategies for mastering this co-parenting model. A Unique Approach to Co-Parenting A nesting arrangement, also known as bird’s nest custody or bird’s nest co-parenting, is a unique custody arrangement where the children remain in the family home while the parents rotate in and out based on a predetermined schedule. Instead of ..read more

Child support is a crucial legal obligation designed to ensure the well-being and financial stability of a child. It is calculated based on an “income sharing” model, considering the incomes of both parents and the number of overnights each parent has with the child. The primary aim of child support is to guarantee that both parents contribute to the child’s financial needs until they reach adulthood. If one parent fails to fulfill this responsibility, there can be severe consequences. Factors Influencing Child Support Calculation When determining the amount of child support, various factors a ..read more

When it comes to divorce or separation, financial matters can be challenging. In such situations, the division of retirement assets often arises as a crucial aspect, and this is where Qualified Domestic Relations Orders (QDROs) come into play. In this blog, we will explore QDROs, their significance, and why it is crucial to have one in place. What are QDROs? A Qualified Domestic Relations Order, commonly known as a QDRO, is a legal judgment, decree, or order issued by a court that allows for the fair division of retirement benefits between divorcing or separating spouses. This important tool e ..read more

Child custody arrangements form the bedrock of a child’s life post-divorce or separation. These arrangements govern where a child will live, who will make crucial decisions about their upbringing, and how both parents will continue to be involved in their life. But as life is ever-changing, so too are the circumstances surrounding these agreements. At times, modifications to child custody arrangements may become necessary to ensure the child’s best interests continue to be met. The Basics of Child Custody Modifications Child custody modifications are not uncommon in the realm of family law. Th ..read more

Divorce can stir up a whirlwind of emotions, and suspicion of a spouse hiding assets only adds to the turmoil. The process of unearthing hidden assets can be complicated and overwhelming, but with the right legal guidance, it is far from impossible. At Hammer Serna & Quinn, LLC, we understand the intricacies involved in such matters. With our experienced Chicago divorce lawyers by your side, you can uncover the truth and ensure a fair settlement. The Importance of Legal Assistance Uncovering hidden assets requires a deep understanding of both financial matters and the legal system. A quali ..read more

After finalizing a divorce, there may come a time when you need to revisit the terms of your divorce settlement agreement. At Hammer Serna & Quinn, LLC, we understand these situations and are here to guide you through the process of post-divorce modifications. What is a Post-Divorce Modification? Post-divorce modifications refer to changes made to a divorce settlement agreement after it has been finalized by the court. These modifications can be requested if there has been a substantial change in circumstances that affects the original orders. For instance, changes in income, living arrang ..read more

Divorce is undeniably one of the most challenging and emotionally charged experiences in life. As family law attorneys, we at Hammer Serna & Quinn, LLC understand the difficulties that arise when it comes to matters of child custody and parenting during this tumultuous time. That’s why we advocate for the importance of creating a comprehensive parenting time plan, which serves as a roadmap for navigating the complexities of co-parenting after divorce. What is a Parenting Time Plan? A parenting time plan, also known as a visitation or custody schedule, outlines how parents will share time w ..read more

Divorce is a challenging and emotionally charged life event that often necessitates the division of assets acquired during the marriage. Among these assets, retirement benefits hold significant value. In this blog post, we will explore the legal processes, regulations, and guidelines involved in the division of retirement benefits in a divorce. We will address common questions and concerns, providing you with the information necessary to navigate this complex aspect of divorce proceedings. Understanding Marital Property When it comes to the division of retirement benefits, it is crucial to est ..read more

Child support orders are a vital component of family law, ensuring that children receive the financial support they need from both parents. At Hammer Serna & Quinn, LLC, we understand the importance of enforcing these orders to hold parents accountable for their obligations. In this blog, we will provide insight into child support orders and how a family law attorney can assist in their enforcement. Establishing Child Support Orders Child support amounts are determined based on an “income sharing” model, taking into consideration the income of both parents and the number of overnights each ..read more

Infidelity is a painful reality that many couples face, and it often leads to the dissolution of marriage. When infidelity becomes the grounds for divorce, it adds an additional layer of complexity to an already challenging process. At Hammer Serna & Quinn, LLC, we understand the emotional toll it can take, and we’re here to guide you through the legal intricacies that come with it. Infidelity and Divorce in Illinois Under Illinois law, infidelity itself does not directly affect the outcome of a divorce. The state follows a “no-fault” divorce principle, meaning the court is not concerned w ..read more