When you are in the midst of a divorce, you will be given advice (often unsolicited) from friends and family members. Abraham Lincoln observed that “he who represents himself has a fool for a client.” The thought behind that quote is anyone who represents himself or herself lacks the objectivity and insight to make certain clear eyed decisions in his or her court case. The … Continue reading The Successful Divorce: The Value of Free Advice
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THE DOG DAYS OF SUMMER
As the days get longer, and the air conditioning units start to continuously flip on, more people and their dogs will get outside to enjoy the sun. This article offers legal points to help make sure you and your canine friend are law abiding members of the community. Dog Law 101 Your responsibilities as a pet owner: Under Illinois law, you are legally the owner … Continue reading THE DOG DAYS OF SUMMER
DON’T CHASE THE ARSONIST: EMOTIONAL JUSTICE AND DIVORCE
Divorcing people have a variety of goals. Some are looking to escape a toxic relationship or a spouse that has been physically or financially unfaithful. Others are bored with their lives and looking for a fresh start. Still, others are simply looking for happiness away from their spouse. Regardless of the origin or motivation behind a divorce, many look to the divorce process to achieve … Continue reading DON’T CHASE THE ARSONIST: EMOTIONAL JUSTICE AND DIVORCE
“MARRIAGE WITH NO RINGS ATTACHED”: RIGHTS OF UNMARRIED COUPLES UPON BREAKUP
Many couples reject the formalities of marriage and instead choose to live together in a committed relationship. Often referred to as a “common law marriage,” couples who live together do not have the same rights as married spouses. Illinois (like most states) does not recognize common-law marriages. But what happens when unmarried couples decide to break up? What are their rights or claims against the … Continue reading “MARRIAGE WITH NO RINGS ATTACHED”: RIGHTS OF UNMARRIED COUPLES UPON BREAKUP
DIVORCING THE DEEP NARCISSIST: GET OUT OF THE BOILING POT!
In recognition of the World Narcissistic Abuse Awareness Day on June 1, I wanted to address some of the very real challenges for anyone divorcing a narcissist. According to psychcentral.com, over 158 million Americans suffer from narcissistic abuse. As a divorce lawyer of over 30 years, I have seen patterns of behavior in divorces involving narcissists. Regardless of the ultimate outcome, one thing is certain–a … Continue reading DIVORCING THE DEEP NARCISSIST: GET OUT OF THE BOILING POT!
USE IT OR LOSE IT: A PARENT’S LACK OF INTEREST CAN LEAD TO TERMINATION OF PARENTAL RIGHTS
The Illinois Adoption Act allows for the termination of parental rights in conjunction with an adoption. In order to do this, there must first be a showing that a biological parent is “unfit,” as defined in the adoption act. While the Adoption Act provides several grounds of unfitness, one of the most prevalent is the parent’s failure to maintain a reasonable degree of interest, concern … Continue reading USE IT OR LOSE IT: A PARENT’S LACK OF INTEREST CAN LEAD TO TERMINATION OF PARENTAL RIGHTS
FINANCIAL FRAUD IN DIVORCE: HOW YOU CAN PROTECT YOUR INTERESTS
If you believe that your soon-to-be ex-spouse will be honest about the disclosure and division of assets and income, think again! According to the National Endowment for Financial Education, nearly one-third of U.S. couples filing for divorce engage in financial infidelity. Financial fraud in divorce commonly involves one spouse hiding or misrepresenting assets to tweak the divorce settlement in his or her favor. Moreover, the … Continue reading FINANCIAL FRAUD IN DIVORCE: HOW YOU CAN PROTECT YOUR INTERESTS
Understanding Temporary and Permanent Allocation of Companion Animals in Divorce
Getting a divorce is stressful enough, but having to worry about your fur family as well is unbearable for most. A law effective January 1, 2018, allows Illinois courts to allocate the sole or joint ownership of (and responsibility for) a companion animal of the parties. In determining how to allocate ownership and responsibility of a companion animal, the court can consider the well-being of … Continue reading Understanding Temporary and Permanent Allocation of Companion Animals in Divorce
Effective Strategies to Handle a Divorce during Pregnancy
Having a baby is a joyful period in a couple’s life. Yet, in cases of infidelity, abandonment, abuse, or irreconcilable differences between couples, divorce may be the only option. The pain of going through a divorce can leave anyone emotionally distraught, but with pregnancy, the situation gets complicated beyond imagination. If you are an expectant mother heading towards divorce, you have a lot on your … Continue reading Effective Strategies to Handle a Divorce during Pregnancy
The Best Co-Parenting Advice for Divorced Couples
Divorce is tough on kids; yet, research reveals effective co-parenting can help divorced couples raise independent and confident kids, thereby helping the family navigate future trials and tribulations. Conscious co-parenting can make your kids feel secure and assured of the love of both their parents, encouraging them to easily adjust to your marital split and the new living conditions. The hardest part of a divorce … Continue reading The Best Co-Parenting Advice for Divorced Couples