While a 50/50 child custody split might seem like the best option for parents in Illinois, it can actually cause a lot of issues for both parents and children. Both parties have to deal with constant disruptions that make it hard for the children to live normal lives....
Diving retirement assets in a divorce
The divorce process can be different for people who are closer to retirement. Generally, older couples don't have to worry about child support, since their children are now adults. However, they may be faced with splitting their retirement assets. In addition to the...
Does an executor have full power over the will?
When an individual dies in Illinois, their will executor must manage their estate after their death. This gives the executor some level of power over their estate, particularly when they divide up the assets. This doesn't give them the power to change the will itself,...
Divorce with pets: Avoiding the bitter fight
Animals are an important part of our lives. They are a family member who doesn’t have a voice in what happens in a divorce. Illinois is one of three states who use the same standard with pets as they do with children in a divorce: the best interest of the pet. The...
Do you need to plan ahead when you get divorced?
If you're thinking about filing for divorce in Illinois, you might be tempted to do it now and get it over with. However, if you don't prepare for your divorce ahead of time, it will be much harder on you and your family members. Your attorney could help you through...
Is estate planning on the rise?
When someone passes away without a will, Illinois intestacy succession laws determine which heirs receives what assets. The law might not match what someone wants, so it's important to craft a will and engage in estate planning. Surprisingly, reports suggest that the...
Can you refuse your inheritance?
When you're writing your will in Illinois, you might suspect that someone might not want the inheritance that you're about to leave them. You know that it's in their best interests, but you can see them refusing to take it after you're gone. Can the law require...
Should you stay together for the kids?
Filing for divorce in Illinois is hard enough on the spouses, but it's even more challenging when you have kids involved. Many parents have heard that it's best to stay together for the kids, even if your marriage is falling apart. But is this true in every situation?...
Dividing credit card assets during divorce
Many people think about homes, cars, and even debt when they think about dividing up assets during a divorce. However, divorcees in Illinois may not think about more “hidden” assets, such as frequent flyer miles and credit card rewards points. Educating yourself about...
Estate planning: Common mistakes people make
Planning his or her estate is one of the most significant things a person can do for his or her family and the hard work he or she has performed throughout his or her life. That is why so many people in Illinois and around the country take the time to create an estate...
