In Illinois, divorcing parents must determine the allocation of parental responsibilities (formerly known as custody) and parenting time (formerly known as visitation) will be split among them. Unfortunately, this sensitive matter can create a lot of tension, and parents may struggle to come to an agreement. If this happens, the decision may be left up to a judge. Learn more about how child-related matters are decided upon in an Illinois divorce, and how an experienced attorney can help with your case.

Parents Usually Start with a Parenting Plan

Typically, the first step in determining the allocation of parental responsibilities and parenting time is the completion of a parenting plan. Done either jointly or separately, this plan must be submitted to the court within 120 days of the divorce petition (unless an extension is filed). If parents are unable to agree, they may attend alternative dispute resolution (i.e. mediation) to work out their differences.

Dividing marital property in a divorce can be a complex and contentious matter, especially in Illinois. You see, unlike in other states where property and assets are divided equally, Illinois distributes assets in an equitable (“fair”) manner. Unfortunately, everyone’s version of fair is not the same. As such, the courts have some factors that guide the asset division process. Learn more about them, and what an experienced divorce attorney can do for you, with help from the following information.

What is Included in the Marital Estate?

Before the courts can divide a couple’s assets, the overall value of the marital estate must be determined. Items that are included in this process will typically include any assets acquired during the marriage, but individual assets that were acquired before the marriage may also be included if they were co-mingled with marital funds. Examples of such items may include:

Each day, some 2,000 children are reported missing. Statistics indicate that most of these kidnappings are committed by the child’s own parent, not a stranger. How big is the problem, why does it occur, and what can you do to prevent it from happening to your child? The following explains, and it provides details on where to find assistance if you suspect that parental kidnapping may become an issue in your Illinois divorce case.

Examining the Causes of Parental Kidnapping

Although each case is unique, statistics offer some insight on the causes of parental kidnapping. For example, some 65 percent of all cases occur shortly after a parent has had a change to their rights. This statistic suggests a few possibilities; some parents may abduct their child to retaliate against a parent that has infringed upon their rights, but others may do so because of fear of losing their child or grief over the loss of quality time with them.

Experts in divorce and money are saying that many couples are delaying divorce because they fear they will lose their insurance. Issues in Washington D.C. are only further compounding their concerns. Are you experiencing the same problem? You may have other options. Learn more about these options, including how to determine which one may be most appropriate for your situation, and how an attorney may be able to assist, with help from the following information on obtaining health insurance after a divorce.

COBRA Through a Spouse’s Employer

Those that currently have health insurance through their spouse’s employer may be eligible for COBRA insurance coverage for up to three years. The one issue to watch is if the Better Care Reconciliation Act; it could mean that those with pre-existing conditions will have a harder time finding insurance once COBRA runs out. Still, even if this does happen, divorcing parties may have other options by the time their COBRA coverage ends.

Although the adoption laws in Illinois are geared primarily toward children, the state also allows for adult adoptions. Much like child adoption, it offers the benefit of a legally binding parent-child relationship, just as if the adult had been biologically born to the adopting person. How exactly does this process work, and why should you consider it for your family? The following explains.

Why Adopt an Adult?

Adult adoptions in Illinois rare, but they offer numerous benefits to both the adopting individual and adopted adult. Deemed the legal “child” of the adopting “parent,” the adopted adult becomes eligible for any inheritance that may be left behind once the adopting parent passes. Adoption also ensures the child has legal rights to make medical decisions for the adopting parent, should they ever become incapacitated or otherwise incapable of making such decisions themselves. In situations involving an adult child with disabilities, adoption can also give legal rights to an adopting parent, which they may need to secure benefits for the adult child.