Posts By: MICHAEL C CRAVEN

Best Interests of Child in Contested Divorces

Best-interest-of-the-child

When parents go through a contested divorce in Chicago or surrounding communities such as Skokie, Evanston, and Oak Park, one of the most critical legal issues involves determining parenting time and parental responsibilities. Illinois courts do not automatically favor one parent over the other. Instead, judges rely on a legal framework known as the “best interests of the child” standard. . This standard governs all decisions involving children under the Illinois Marriage and Dissolution of ...   Read more ...  

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When Respect Fades: A Major Turning Point In Many Illinois Divorces

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Marriages often break down slowly, and losing mutual respect is usually a major turning point in Illinois divorces. As respect fades, couples communicate less, trust each other less, and daily life becomes tense. We see this often with clients who are deciding whether to work on their marriage or move forward with divorce. While emotional distance is hard, it can also lead to important legal issues once divorce starts. . Illinois uses a no-fault divorce system, so courts do not blame either spou...   Read more ...  

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Avoiding Financial Pitfalls In a Divorce

financial pitfalls

Divorce can be emotionally difficult, but it is also one of the most significant financial events many people will experience. Without careful planning and informed decision-making, individuals going through a divorce can face long-term financial consequences that impact their stability for years to come. . For individuals in Chicago, Illinois and nearby communities such as Skokie, Evanston, Oak Park, and throughout Cook County, understanding how divorce affects property division, debt allocatio...   Read more ...  

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Asset Division in a Divorce

asset division

Dividing assets is often one of the most complex and emotionally charged aspects of a divorce. When a marriage ends, spouses must determine how their property, investments, real estate, retirement accounts, and debts will be allocated between them. In Illinois, asset division is governed by state law and guided by the principle of equitable distribution. . For individuals going through divorce in Chicago, Illinois, understanding how courts approach asset division is essential for protecting fina...   Read more ...  

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Are There Differences In Custody Rights Of A Father Vs A Mother In Illinois?

child custody

If you are divorcing and have children, child custody and parenting plans are probably at the top of your mind. Nothing is more vital during divorce than ensuring that your children are cared for and provided for. Note that the term custody is no longer used in Illinois, but it is used herein as a generic term generally understood by the public.   Even if you have a relatively amicable divorce, Illinois laws regarding child custody and parenting time can be convoluted and confusing. But the...   Read more ...  

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5 Benefits of Mediation

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A Practical Option for Couples in Chicago, Illinois Divorce can be one of the most stressful and emotionally challenging experiences a family will face. In Illinois, traditional divorce litigation often involves lengthy court proceedings, legal fees, and emotional conflict. For many couples in Chicago and surrounding communities such as Evanston, Skokie, Oak Park, Cicero, and Naperville, mediation offers an alternative path that can reduce conflict and create more efficient resolutions. Divorc...   Read more ...  

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