Vernon Hills Divorce Attorneys Protecting Women’s & Mothers’ Rights

Vernon Hills Divorce Lawyers Serving the Unique Needs of Women and Mothers

Regardless of your familiarity with divorce matters or personal experience, it is often difficult to understand the nuances of Illinois law without a skilled legal advocate on your side. The Illinois Marriage and Dissolution of Marriage Act, the law that governs all divorces in the state, recently went through a major overhaul that has extensive implications for couples and families. Therefore, it is critical to discuss your situation with a dedicated attorney who has an extensive background representing women and mothers with children.

While you would always discuss the specifics of your situation with one of our lawyers at Women’s Divorce & Family Law Group, it may be helpful to understand how the divorce process works in Illinois. The proceedings cover a number of issues depending on your circumstances.

• Property Valuation and Division: Assets acquired during a marriage are subject to distribution to each spouse, according to legal concepts of fairness and equity. Courts look to such factors as income, needs, and earning capacity when making a property division.
• Spousal Support: Illinois law provides a formula for determining spousal maintenance, otherwise known as alimony. Income and the length of the marriage are key considerations, but judges will make a finding based upon the facts of each case.
• Parental Responsibilities and Parenting Time: Previously known as “custody” and “visitation,” state law now takes a shared parenting approach to divorce cases involving minor children. A Parenting Plan to cover allocation of parental responsibilities and parenting time will be part of your final divorce decree.
• Child Support: A non-residential parent may have support obligations to cover the basic needs of minor children, including food and clothing. Minimum guidelines are provided under Illinois law, but the statute also allows for additional support for contributions to health insurance, care services, education, and extracurricular activities.