If you are considering divorce in Illinois, you may come across terms such as contested divorce, uncontested divorce, no-fault divorce, joint simplified divorce, and default divorce. These terms can be confusing because they do not all describe the same thing. Some describe the legal basis for divorce, some describe how spouses proceed through the divorce…
Illinois is a no-fault divorce state, which means you do not have to prove that your spouse cheated, abused you, abandoned you, or otherwise did something wrong to obtain a divorce. Under 750 ILCS 5/401 the only legal ground for divorce in Illinois is that irreconcilable differences have caused the irretrievable breakdown of the marriage….
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…
Telling your spouse you want a divorce or separation is one of the most difficult conversations a person can have. It involves emotional preparation, careful timing, clear communication, and understanding the legal and practical consequences. A thoughtful approach can help reduce conflict, protect your emotional and financial well-being, and safeguard your children if you have…
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,…
Divorce is one of life’s most difficult transitions. It brings emotional stress, financial uncertainty, and complicated legal decisions. In fact, more than 20% 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. While every divorce is different, some patterns consistently…
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…
Embarking on a journey of self-care during a divorce is essential for maintaining your mental and emotional health. This article, courtesy of Barber Law Offices, delves into the profound impact of self-care strategies that can help weather this difficult phase.
As a father going through the potentially gut-wrenching divorce process, it’s important to understand what to do and what not to do. Take the following practical considerations into account to ensure a successful outcome.
