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A Guide to Child Support in Illinois

After parents divorce or separate, both have the legal obligation to provide financial support for their children. The court or the parents will determine child custody and visitation and create a parenting plan. This is also when child support calculations will be made. Child support payments are meant to ensure children receive the same level of support from both parents and that they retain a similar standard of living as when their parents were together. Parents who are divorced or separated may be concerned about paying child support, when payments are necessary, and how they are calculated. Determining Child Support

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The Impact of Social Media on Springfield, Illinois, Divorces

A divorce is a hard process for any couple, and divorces that enter litigation can be very emotionally exhausting. During divorce court proceedings, it’s essential that you protect your interests. There are several ways that being active on social media can harm your divorce court case. In contentious divorces, your spouse’s attorney will use whatever possible evidence against you, and that includes posts on social media. Certain types of social media posts can jeopardize the outcome of your case and harm your right to spousal support, child custody, and other parts of a divorce. How Social Media Can Be Used

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How Domestic Violence Impacts a Divorce

Domestic violence causes serious harm, danger, and trauma to spouses and children in families. Many spouses getting a divorce because of domestic violence they suffered wonder how it will impact the divorce case. Because Illinois is now a no-fault divorce state, a spouse cannot file for a divorce on the grounds of domestic violence. However, domestic violence may still impact certain aspects of the divorce proceedings. Domestic Violence in Illinois Law Illinois’ legal definition of domestic violence is abuse enacted against a family member or person living in the same home. An act of abuse includes: Physical abuse Intimidation Deliberate

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How to Navigate a Contentious Divorce in Springfield

Every divorce is different. Although not all divorces are as dramatic and combative as television and the media suggest, some are. The emotions and life changes that occur during a divorce can lead even the most level-headed people to act spitefully. When your spouse is making the divorce process difficult, it can seem appealing to treat them as poorly as they are treating you. You may also want to argue with their perspective, as disagreements are often the root cause of divorces in the first place. However, there are healthy and mature ways to navigate contentious divorces. These can minimize

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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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