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When life circumstances change significantly, it may be necessary or advantageous to modify a child support agreement to ensure it remains fair and meets the evolving needs of the child. In Illinois, the legal process to adjust child support is deeply rooted in the principle of prioritizing the child’s best interests. This involves several key steps that demonstrate a substantial change in circumstances that affects the child support previously agreed upon or ordered by the court. Understa...   Read more ...  

Loss of trust is one of the most common reasons Illinois couples begin thinking seriously about divorce. Trust can erode slowly through repeated disappointments, secrecy, broken promises, or it can be damaged suddenly by infidelity, financial misconduct, or dishonesty about major life decisions. Once trust is weakened, everyday communication often becomes strained, and spouses may begin to question whether the marriage can continue in a healthy way. For many couples, this emotional breakdown eve...   Read more ...  

In Illinois, the concept of ‘child custody’ is now referred to as the ‘allocation of parental responsibilities.’ Under Illinois law (750 ILCS 5/602.5), state courts are required to “allocate decision-making responsibilities according to the child’s best interests.” As a general rule, Illinois courts presume that it is best for a child to have an active, ongoing relationship with both parents.   However, there are exceptions. Unfortunately, some parents are simply not fit t...   Read more ...  

When a teenager refuses parenting time, parents often feel stuck between honoring their child’s feelings and following a court order. In Chicago and across Illinois, this situation arises frequently as children grow older and become more vocal about their preferences. Emotions can escalate quickly, especially when one parent believes the other is encouraging resistance. Courts, however, focus less on frustration and more on legal responsibility and the child’s best interests. Understanding h...   Read more ...  

A Comprehensive Guide for Families in Chicago and Surrounding Areas Deciding child custody, now referred to in Illinois as allocation of parental responsibilities and parenting time, is one of the most significant and emotional issues families face during divorce or separation. While terminology has changed under Illinois law, the core legal principle remains the same: courts in Chicago, Chicago and throughout Cook County, DuPage County, Lake County, and beyond must make decisions that reflect ...   Read more ...  

Deciding whether to move out of the marital home before filing for divorce is one of the most stressful and emotionally charged choices a spouse can face. Many people believe that leaving early will make the divorce easier or reduce conflict, but in Illinois, that decision can carry serious legal consequences. Moving out too soon can affect finances, parenting time, property rights, and even how a judge views certain disputes later in the case. We regularly speak with clients who moved out witho...   Read more ...