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3 Ways to Encourage a Peaceful Divorce in Illinois

Posted on October 17, 2019 in Family Law

For many spouses, the thought of a peaceful divorce is a definite oxymoron. With so many factors contributing to the conflicts that often plague the divorce process, it may seem almost impossible to imagine a marriage ending on friendly terms. Sensitive issues such as the division of debts, spousal support, and parenting time have the power to amplify emotions and create overwhelming tension in the midst of a separation. Working through these issues can be extremely challenging and painful, especially when interactions between parties are hostile. However, psychology experts tell us that a peaceful divorce is not a myth. Despite the fact that every divorce involves some level of loss, sadness, and hurt, it is possible to make it through the experience tranquilly and civilly.

How to Keep the Peace

Here are some suggestions for a smoother divorce experience:

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4 Ways Every Parent Can Reduce Divorce Stress for their Children

Posted on October 11, 2019 in Family Law

The emotional upheaval brought on by divorce in the family can be exhausting and intense. It can take a significant amount of time for everyone to process the event, regardless of how amicable the decision to separate may have been. The end of a marriage is particularly difficult for any children involved, as they are suddenly confronted with not only the reality that their family is changing, but also the realization that they must accept and adjust to new routines and essentially a different way of life. The result of such a big transition is a lot for children of any age, and emotional distress is both natural and inevitable. Just as adults process loss in their own way and in their own time, so too do children of divorce.

Providing Emotional Support for Your Children

It is common for parents in the midst of divorce proceedings to struggle to find the energy to extend to their child, who also needs comfort and support during such a trying time. Practicing basic self-care during the transition is critical, so you are able to recharge and be emotionally available for them. However, even under strained circumstances, there are many strategies and attitudes you can adopt that can help lighten your child’s burden, make them feel safe and loved, and maybe even lift their spirits. Here are four ways every parent can reduce the stress of divorce for their child:

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Relocating After Divorce: Three Factors Every Parent Should Consider

Posted on October 3, 2019 in Family Law

Even in the midst of a divorce, when big changes are already in motion in a household, other circumstances can arise that create an even greater divide between a parent and a child. Sometimes new developments at work or with extended family surface, placing a parent in a position where he or she must decide whether or not to relocate in the wake of a divorce. In other situations, one parent simply wishes to retaliate or distance him or herself--and the child the couple shares--from the other, with hopes of starting over after the separation. Whatever the reason for a potential relocation, there are certain laws in place to govern each parent’s rights when it comes to moving after a divorce. Parents cannot simply take off and uproot their child in the process without proper court authorization and approval from the other parent. These restrictions exist for a number of reasons, one of the most important being the protection of the child’s best interests.

The Impact of Relocating After Divorce

If you or your ex-spouse must move due to a job transfer or other circumstances, it is important to weigh some of the potential consequences of relocating after your divorce, such as the following:

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How Can I Obtain Guardianship of a Minor in an Illinois Divorce?

Posted on September 30, 2019 in Family Law

Under Illinois law, a person other than a child's legal parent may be appointed to act as their legal guardian. While guardianship is considered a separate type of legal proceeding from the dissolution of marriage, the issue may arise when a minor child's legal parent is going through a divorce. Guardianship can be sought by grandparents, even when the legal parents are not divorcing or planning to end their marriage.

Why a Grandparent May Need Guardianship

There are many reasons why a grandparent may need guardianship. The grandparent may be taking care of the minor child after the divorce of the child's parents, and they may need the legal authority to make decisions that affect the child’s life. For example, legal guardianship may be required to include the child in the grandparent’s insurance coverage or to register the child in school.

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What To Look for When Hiring an Illinois Family Law Attorney

Posted on September 24, 2019 in Family Law

It has been said that nothing is certain but death and taxes; this rather sardonic depiction of life is credited to one of our founding fathers, Benjamin Franklin. What is also almost as certain is if you find yourself in a legal jam, you need a lawyer. It is important to know that all lawyers are not the same, and this is true even for those who limit their practice to areas such as divorce and family law. Statistics show that over 22 percent of first marriages end up in divorce in less than five years, and 53 percent of them dissolve by the 20-year mark. If you and your spouse are contemplating divorce, you need to do some homework and make sure the lawyer you hire is the best to handle your legal situation and offer dependable legal counsel.

Personalized Service

Going through a divorce can be difficult and emotionally draining. If there are children involved, then it can be even more painful. In these cases, you need to hire a lawyer who not only has experience handling divorce cases but one who is also empathetic.

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