Posted on February 29, 2024 in Divorce

As tax season approaches, many couples may find themselves facing the difficult reality of getting divorced. In Illinois, navigating the intersection of divorce and taxes can be complex and overwhelming. Understanding the implications and considerations involved can help individuals make informed decisions during this challenging time. If you seek guidance in navigating tax season when going through a divorce, contact a knowledgeable lawyer to lead you through the process to ensure you can protect your rights and look out for your best interests. 

Should I File Separately if I Am Getting Divorced? 

One important aspect to consider when getting divorced during tax season in Illinois is the filing status. The IRS considers a couple married for the entire tax year if they were still legally married on December 31st. Once the new year begins, the IRS will still consider you legally married and thus allow you to file a joint return for the previous year. However, if the divorce is finalized before the end of the year, each spouse will need to file separately. 

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 Posted on February 26, 2024 in Divorce

Going through a divorce can be a challenging process, often forcing people to make difficult decisions about their future. When a couple has a disabled child, the situation can become even more complex. In Illinois, parents must consider various legal and practical aspects when seeking a divorce while caring for a disabled child. Understanding the specific laws and resources available can help families navigate this difficult time with more clarity and support. If you have a child with disabilities and are getting a divorce, contact a lawyer to assist you through the process.

What Parents Need to Know 

One crucial aspect to consider is financial support for the disabled child. In Illinois, child support guidelines take into account the child’s special needs and medical expenses. It is essential for parents to provide detailed documentation of these expenses to ensure the child receives the necessary support. Additionally, parents may need to create a special needs trust or other financial arrangements to secure the child’s long-term care and well-being.

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 Posted on February 22, 2024 in Divorce

When going through a divorce, it is natural to wonder how your spouse’s criminal past may impact the proceedings. While each divorce case in Illinois is undoubtedly unique and the outcome is dependent on various factors, your spouse’s criminal history can have some influence on the divorce process. If your soon-to-be ex-spouse has a criminal past, consult a divorce attorney to ensure you can get the best outcome possible.

Can a Criminal Record Impact Child Custody?

One of the most significant ways a spouse’s criminal past can affect a divorce is in child custody or visitation arrangements. Because the court’s most important concern when it comes to custody and visitation is what is best for the child, a parent’s criminal record may seriously affect those arrangements. For example, suppose a parent has a criminal record involving a violent or drug-related offense. In the court’s eyes, such a parent may be deemed unfit to be a safe parent who can be left alone with a child. Additionally, the court will weigh the chances of criminal behavior happening in the future when determining custody and visitation rights.

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 Posted on February 19, 2024 in Divorce

In today’s constantly evolving society, gender roles that were once considered traditional are being challenged, with more men than ever before choosing to be stay-at-home dads. However, stay-at-home dads may face unique challenges and concerns when it comes to divorce. If you are a stay-at-home dad going through a divorce in Illinois, it is of the utmost importance that you are aware of your rights as you navigate this process. Hiring an experienced attorney is instrumental in breaking down stereotypes and ensuring equality in family law.

Understanding the Challenging Dynamics

In the past, the role of the primary caregiver was often assumed to be that of the mother. However, with changing societal norms, more fathers are taking on the responsibility of being the primary caregiver while their spouse pursues a career outside the home. The legal system in Illinois is adapting to these changing dynamics and recognizes the rights of stay-at-home dads during divorce proceedings

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 Posted on February 14, 2024 in Child Support

Divorce can bring about numerous challenges, especially when it comes to supporting children's education. In the state of Illinois, the responsibility of paying for college tuition is determined by various factors, including state laws, court decisions, and the specific terms of the divorce settlement agreement. One crucial aspect to consider is Section 513 of the Illinois Marriage and Dissolution of Marriage Act, which outlines the provisions related to college expenses for a non-minor child. If you are getting a divorce and are concerned about who will be responsible for your child's college tuition, an experienced attorney can assist you.

Section 513 of the Illinois Marriage and Dissolution of Marriage Act

Section 513 provides guidelines for determining the allocation of college expenses between divorced parents. It allows the court to order either or both parents to contribute to their child's college expenses, considering various factors. Section 513 provides for the allocation of reasonable and necessary college expenses, including tuition, fees, books, housing, and other related costs.

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 Posted on February 12, 2024 in Divorce

Many decisions made during a divorce will have long-lasting consequences, both personally and financially. One such decision may involve opening new lines of credit or waiting until the divorce process is finalized. If you are considering opening a new line of credit during your divorce, discussing the matter with your experienced attorney may be wise. An attorney is a legal professional trained in Illinois divorce law who can help you with every step of the process, ensuring the decisions you make in the present do not come back to bite you somewhere down the road.

Financial Independence vs. Complications 

Opening new credit cards during a divorce can offer a sense of financial independence and the ability to manage expenses. However, it can also complicate the division of assets and debts. Any debts incurred during the marriage, even if only one spouse's name is on the account, may be considered marital debts, potentially making both parties responsible for repayment.

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 Posted on February 07, 2024 in Divorce

Divorce is an often turbulent process that can have a significant impact on your relationships with friends and family. Interacting with loved ones during this time requires careful consideration and sensitivity. If you are getting divorced and worried about how it may affect relationships with your friends or family, discuss these concerns with a trusted attorney in Illinois. 

Practice Honest Communication While Seeking the Support You May Need

Effective communication is important when interacting with friends and family during a divorce. Be honest about your feelings, concerns, and needs. Clearly express what kind of support you require: a listening ear, practical help, or simply a distraction from the divorce process. Encourage trusted friends and loved ones to share their thoughts and feelings as well, fostering an environment of mutual understanding. 

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 Posted on February 02, 2024 in Divorce

Divorce is a life-altering process that often has major implications emotionally and financially. To help control costs, it is essential to understand why setting and following a budget can be incredibly beneficial. If you seek legal guidance and want to create and follow a budget during your divorce, consult a lawyer. Aside from leading you through the legal hurdles that must be jumped over during a divorce, they will ensure you possess the information to make informed decisions that always support what is best for you and your family.

Reasons to Set and Follow a Budget

• Financial clarity – A budget provides a clear understanding of your income, expenses, and debts, helping you make informed decisions about property division, child support payments, and other financial matters. 

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 Posted on January 31, 2024 in Divorce

Serving divorce papers and communicating your intentions to your spouse can seem impossible. This is someone you used to love and may still love, and now you are planning to tell them you want a divorce. Approaching the situation strategically is essential for preserving your emotional well-being and ensuring the process gets off to a non-rocky start. Suppose you are interested in pursuing a divorce. In that case, you will need to know how best to serve your spouse, emphasizing communication and conducting yourself as respectfully and constructively as possible. Call and hire a lawyer in Illinois to kickstart the process.

Obtaining Consequential Legal Advice from a Professional

Before serving divorce papers and expressing your desire to dissolve the marriage, it is imperative you consult with a qualified Illinois attorney. Think of your lawyer as your personal Sherpa, but instead of being your navigator up Mt. Everest, they are leading you through your divorce. From filing the proper documents at the right time to ensuring you understand what is expected of you during the divorce process, they will provide valuable insights on the best approach to serve the papers and how to communicate your intentions most effectively.

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 Posted on January 29, 2024 in Divorce

Divorce is a challenging process for anyone, but it can be incredibly daunting for stay-at-home moms who have dedicated their time and energy to raising their children and managing the household. If you are a stay-at-home mom whose marriage is heading toward a divorce, you are likely wondering what you can do to put yourself in a favorable position once proceedings begin. To start things off, you are strongly advised to hire a lawyer in Illinois as you navigate the process and work toward securing a fair settlement.

Seek Professional Legal Counsel

As a mother working to raise her children, you may be overwhelmed at the prospect of getting a divorce. Remember that you are a mother first and foremost, not a lawyer, and the legal burden does not have to fall onto you entirely. Hiring a lawyer is a critical first step for anyone getting a divorce, not only for stay-at-home mothers. Consulting with and hiring an attorney is the only surefire way to ensure your rights and interests are respected and protected.

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