Legally reviewed by Allen S. Gabe, Family Law Attorney Illinois abolished common law marriage in 1905, and the rule is codified in state law at 750 ILCS 5/214. It does not matter how long you and your partner have lived together, seven years, twenty years, or fifty years. No amount of cohabitation creates a marriage…
A cohabitation agreement in Illinois is a legal contract between two unmarried people who live together that outlines their rights and responsibilities regarding property, finances, debts, and other shared matters. As more couples choose to build a life together without getting married, these agreements have become an important tool for protecting each partner’s financial interests…
We are proud to announce that Allen Gabe has been recognized by America’s Best Advocates as a “Top 10 Attorney” for Family Law in Illinois for 2026. This recognition highlights Attorney Gabe’s ongoing dedication to providing compassionate, strategic, and results-driven legal representation for individuals and families throughout Illinois. Family law matters can be deeply personal…
When a marriage becomes difficult or unfulfilling, many couples begin exploring whether divorce or legal separation is the better option. While both allow spouses to live separately and establish legal arrangements regarding finances, property, and children, they are not the same. The biggest difference between divorce and legal separation is that divorce permanently ends the…
A lawyer retainer is an upfront payment made to secure legal services and ensure an attorney is available to work on your case. In most situations, the funds are placed in a client trust account and used as the lawyer performs billable work. Retainers are widely used in family law, business disputes, and litigation, where…
