Divorce can make finances complicated, especially when it comes to federal taxes and claiming children as dependents. For parents with 50/50 custody, only one parent can legally claim the child each year, and eligibility depends on IRS rules, residency, and financial support. Understanding who qualifies as the custodial parent, how the IRS tie-breaker rules work,…

Co-parenting after divorce is not just a personal commitment; it is a legal obligation. When a court-ordered co-parenting plan is ignored, the consequences can be serious, affecting both your child’s emotional well-being and your parental rights. Courts view consistent cooperation as essential to a child’s stability, and repeated noncompliance can lead to fines, reduced parenting…

Infidelity disrupts the foundation of trust in a marriage and often forces spouses to decide whether rebuilding the relationship is possible or if divorce is the healthier option. Studies show that approximately 10–15% of women and 20–25% of men engage in extramarital affairs, and the emotional fallout can be devastating. Common red flags include a…

When a marriage ends, divorce may be unavoidable, but children don’t have to suffer alongside their parents. Co-parenting after divorce is entirely possible, even when former spouses struggle to get along. This guide, compiled by our experts, explores proven strategies to build a healthy co-parenting relationship and ensure your child’s well-being. According to the Centers…

Divorce is one of life’s most challenging experiences, filled with emotional turmoil, legal complexity, and difficult decisions. In fact, more than 20 percent of first marriages end in divorce within five years, and 48 percent of marriages dissolve by the 20-year mark, highlighting how common these situations are. Couples on the path to divorce may…

An order of protection is a legal tool designed to help keep individuals and families safe from an abuser. In Illinois, three types of protective orders may be granted when proof of abuse is presented. Understanding what a protective order is and the options available can empower individuals to take the necessary steps to protect…

Couples facing divorce may benefit from working with a mediator to settle their differences outside of court. Divorce mediators guide partners in reaching amicable agreements, helping to ease the process. In this guide, we discuss the role of a divorce mediator, along with the steps and expectations involved in mediation. What Does a Divorce Mediator…

Ending a marriage can be achieved through either divorce or dissolution. Dissolution of marriage, however, offers notable advantages in terms of cost, time, and emotional toll. This process provides a simpler, less stressful alternative to the often lengthy and complex path of divorce. Discover the benefits of choosing dissolution and how it differs from traditional…

Each year, thousands of Americans make the difficult decision to end their marriage with a divorce. The divorce process can be very difficult, both financially and emotionally, especially if the process drags out in the courts. Spouses who are on good terms and want an amicable divorce can choose to file for a no-fault divorce,…

The dissolution of a marital union is an emotionally challenging process. But when a marriage cannot be saved, divorce is inevitable. The divorce process starts by filling out multiple forms, one of which includes the petition for divorce. Divorce may proceed if the spouse opts to ignore the petition. Fault-Based Divorces When contemplating divorce, it…

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