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

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 ...  

5 Benefits of Mediation

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 ...  

2026 Super Lawyers and Rising Stars for Harrison, LLP

Harrison is proud to announce that seven of our attorneys have been recognized in the 2026 Georgia Super Lawyers® and Rising Stars® lists, and six attorneys have been named to the 2026 Illinois Super Lawyers® and Rising Stars® lists. This year’s recognition spans across our capabilities, reflecting the firm’s commitment to excellence in serving our clients across private wealth law and family law.   Only the top 5% of attorneys are selected to Super Lawyers, and the top 2% o...   Read more ...  

What Must Happen To Initiate Child Support Modification In Illinois?

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 In A Marriage: When Illinois Couples Begin Considering Divorce

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 ...  

How Do You Prove Someone is an Unfit Parent in Illinois?

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 ...