If you are going through a divorce in Illinois, you may wonder what spousal support will look like in your situation, whether you expect to pay it or receive it. Illinois calls this support maintenance, and courts usually follow a statutory formula to determine both...
Falling behind on child support can create problems beyond the amount you owe. In Illinois, the Division of Child Support Services (DCSS), part of the Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services (HFS), can use different tools to collect unpaid support. These...
You have probably heard the phrase "irreconcilable differences" countless times when people talk about divorce. However, many couples going through a separation do not know what this term means in Illinois or how it shapes their legal journey. If you are considering...
Starting a new relationship can bring excitement and hope, but it may also create questions if you share children with a former partner. You might wonder if dating someone new could affect your child custody arrangement or your parenting time. In many cases, your...
Infidelity is a visceral betrayal that can shatter the foundation of any marriage. If cheating is the (or one) reason a marriage ends, it is natural for the wronged spouse to want some sort of justice through the legal system. You might feel justified in demanding a...
Divorce or separation in Illinois often leads you to focus on parenting time, child support and school routines. Even so, tax benefits tied to your children may also affect your financial situation each year. When parenting agreements do not clearly address these...
Co-parenting after a contentious divorce can feel like stepping into unfamiliar territory with a map that keeps changing. You may still carry frustration, grief or distrust — yet school drop-offs, medical decisions, holidays and daily routines keep moving forward....
Grandparents may lose contact with a grandchild after major family changes. Illinois law allows limited paths to request parenting time but the standard is strict. When the law allows a petition Under Illinois law, you can only ask a court for visitation after a...
When you separate from your child’s other parent, you may worry about how much time you will receive. Illinois courts focus on your child’s best interests rather than on creating an automatic 50/50 schedule. The best interests standard controls Under 750 ILCS 5/602.7,...
A move can seem routine until it affects your child’s schedule. A new address can affect school travel time and midweek exchanges. Illinois law draws a legal line for “relocation” when you already follow a parenting plan. When you know where that line may fall, you...
