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The Importance of Estate Planning for Blended Families

Blended families, which consist of stepparents, stepchildren, and half-siblings, have become increasingly common in recent years. However, estate planning for blended families can be a complex and delicate process. Without proper planning, blended families may face challenges in distributing their assets. This can make it difficult to ensure that their loved ones are taken care of after their passing. Why Estate Planning Is Important for Blended Families Blended families often have unique dynamics and complex family structures that require careful estate planning. Here are some reasons why estate planning is crucial for blended families: Protecting Your Spouse and Children In

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How to Have an Effective Initial Consultation With a Family Law Attorney

For family law matters, having an effective initial consultation with a family law attorney is crucial. An initial consultation is your opportunity to give the attorney all the facts of your case and get their opinion on how best to proceed. However, some common mistakes people make when consulting with an attorney for the first time can lead to a less-than-successful outcome. By better understanding how to approach an initial consultation, you can ensure that your case gets the best results. Prepare Your Documentation in Advance You must come prepared for your first meeting with your attorney by providing all

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Planning Your Estate While in the Military

Whether you are creating a living will, looking for beneficiaries, setting up a plan for your estate, or dictating your health care and end-of-life wishes, it is important to get a jump start preparing your family’s financial future. If you are considering crafting an estate plan as a person currently in the military or as a veteran, then discussing your situation with a Springfield estate planning attorney can help you every step of the way. When you’re ready, consider the following steps to help you get started, then contact our firm. We have the experience and skills to ensure your

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Miscommunication Patterns Found in Newly Divorced Households

It is well known that communication is key in any relationship. It’s what allows us to understand each other and maintain a healthy connection that can weather any storm. However, this is not always easy to achieve, and even the best couples struggle to communicate effectively. This is often magnified in the case of divorce when couples are forced to re-evaluate their relationship and figure out how to best co-parent moving forward. By better understanding some of the most common miscommunication patterns found in newly divorced households, you and your ex can avoid potential conflict and better communicate with one

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Is It Better to Wait for the Economy to Improve Before Divorcing in Springfield, IL?

Economic uncertainty has increased dramatically for millions of Americans in recent years. Unfortunately, financial instability and arguments over money are leading causes of marital breakdowns and divorces in the United States. If you and your spouse are having trouble in your marriage and either or both of you are contemplating divorce, it’s understandable to be concerned about the financial implications your divorce will carry. This is especially true in periods of economic uncertainty, causing many spouses to wonder whether it would be better to wait for an economic upswing before filing for divorce. Ultimately, when a marriage has broken down

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Understanding the Divorce Process in Springfield, IL

Divorce is a very challenging and multifaceted legal process, and each divorce case filed in Illinois unfolds differently. You are likely to face many challenges and unique opportunities as your dissolution proceeds through the family court in Springfield, IL, and the first steps you take in handling your divorce can have a profound influence on the outcome. There are many misconceptions about the divorce filing process in Illinois, and knowing what to expect can help you avoid common mistakes in divorce petition filing, sparing you more tedious proceedings later. Contrary to popular belief, there is no legal advantage to being

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Benefits of Hiring a Divorce Attorney in Springfield, IL

When someone decides they no longer wish to remain married to their spouse or when a couple reaches a mutual decision to end their marriage, the couple must brace for divorce proceedings. In Springfield, IL, divorce unfolds in the family court system, and knowing what to expect in the dissolution process is important. Divorce is much more than simply ending your marriage contract with your spouse. The two of you must also resolve property division and outstanding financial matters that apply to you. In addition, when a divorcing couple has children, they face a difficult custody determination process. Ultimately, every

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10 Tips for a Smooth Divorce: Communication Strategies for the Best Outcome

No one gets married expecting it to end in divorce, but unfortunately, this is the case all too often. If you are facing a divorce, it is important to have a communication strategy in place to have the best outcome possible. These ten tips for effective communication can make a big difference in how your divorce unfolds: Tip #1 — Keep the Lines of Communication Open Open communication is essential for a smooth divorce. It is defined as communication that is respectful, honest, and clear. You and your spouse should feel free to share your thoughts and feelings with each

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Important Things to Do After Divorce in Springfield, IL

Your life is likely to change after a divorce in Springfield, IL. While many consider divorce an opportunity for a fresh start, other people are overwhelmed by the number of things they must do to start rebuilding their lives. Whether you are nearing the end of your divorce proceedings or have recently completed the dissolution process, you should follow a few best practices that many people overlook after divorce. Remember the Value of Legal Counsel If you recently finalized your divorce, do not assume that your interactions with your ex or the family court system are finished. Many people must

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How to Speed Up Your Divorce in Springfield, IL

When you and your spouse have decided to divorce, or when one of you has decided to end the marriage, the legal proceedings you face can be incredibly daunting. Even if you are confident that divorce is your best option, the actual process of ending your marriage is likely to be more detailed and emotionally taxing than you initially expect. It’s natural to adopt a desire to want to complete the dissolution process as quickly as possible. However, you should not rush your divorce. Doing so can create further problems that will only demand more of your time and attention

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How to Protect Your Business From Your Divorce in Springfield, IL

Divorce poses several significant challenges to everyone who experiences the process, but it is especially challenging for business owners. If you own a business and are planning to divorce in Springfield, IL, your divorce proceedings could have a dramatic impact on your business operation for the foreseeable future. Depending on when you formed the business and whether your spouse had any involvement in running it, your divorce could mean the closure and sale of the business, or you may manage to preserve your business interests in one of several possible ways. While it’s natural to want to protect your business

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