Downers Grove Divorce Lawyers Fighting for the Rights of Women and Mothers

Downers Grove Divorce Attorneys Put the Needs of Women and Mothers First

While you may be familiar with divorce law or have some personal experience, it is often tough to fully appreciate complex Illinois law unless you have a skilled lawyer representing your interests. Plus, there have been some major changes to the Illinois Marriage and Dissolution of Marriage Act, which covers all divorces in the state. Therefore, you should retain a qualified lawyer who has an extensive background in representing women and mothers with children.

You would always discuss your specific circumstances with an attorney at Women’s Divorce & Family Law Group, but it may be helpful to understand how the divorce process works in Illinois. The statute covers a range of issues depending on the facts of your case.

• Valuation and Distribution of Assets: Real and personal property acquired during your marriage will be divided during the divorce process. In the absence of an agreement, Illinois law requires judges to consider income, needs, earning capacity, and other issues in order to make a fair and equitable distribution of assets.
• Spousal Support: There is a legal formula for determining alimony, which is termed spousal support under Illinois law. Income of the respective spouses and the length of the marriage are important factors, but courts look to the specific facts in each case.
• The Parenting Plan: Under the new statute, Illinois has abolished the traditional concepts of “custody” and “visitation.” Today, the Parenting Plan takes a shared approach to addressing the needs of minor children. The strategy allocates parental responsibilities, decision making, and parenting time, encouraging parents to agree where possible.
• Child Support: A court may require the non-residential parent to pay child support to cover such basic needs as food and clothing. However, the Illinois statute allows for additional financial contributions for health insurance, care services, education, and extracurricular activities.