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Wheaton, IL 60189
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Recent Blog Posts

What Are Commingled Assets in an Illinois Divorce?

 Posted on September 23,2024 in Divorce

Wheaton Family Law AttorneyWhen couples get a divorce in Illinois, one crucial concept that often arises is commingled assets. For couples contemplating divorce, understanding what commingled assets are and how they may impact the division of property is essential. Consulting with a knowledgeable lawyer can provide clarity on this often-overlooked aspect of divorce.

Defining the Basics of Commingled Assets

Commingled assets arise when separate property—owned by one spouse before the marriage—is intertwined with marital property. This blending creates challenges when it comes to determining ownership and the rightful division of assets during divorce proceedings.  

In Illinois, property obtained during the marriage is considered marital property, but complications can arise with assets that were obtained prior to the marriage.

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Steps to De-escalate a Contested Divorce in Illinois

 Posted on September 18,2024 in Divorce

Wheaton Divorce LawyerGoing through a divorce is often very tough, especially when both partners argue and disagree on many issues. If you are facing contested divorce proceedings in Illinois, having a good lawyer by your side can help greatly. There are also practical steps you can take to ease the tension and work toward resolving your divorce. Here is how:

Engage in Thoughtful Conversations

In contested divorce cases, speaking with your spouse may be a challenge. However, it can be hugely important, especially as you look to find any hope for common ground in your contested divorce. Here are some tips to help you talk more effectively:

  • Avoid the blame game – It can feel tempting in a divorce to blame your partner for everything. That said, blaming them for everything will not go very far toward de-escalating the situation. Do whatever you can to try and foster a positive dialogue.

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Should We Tell the Kids We Are Getting Divorced?

 Posted on September 16,2024 in Divorce

DuPage County Divorce LawyerIt goes without saying that divorce is a very challenging time for most families, and one of the most pressing questions parents face is whether to inform their children about the situation. As you consult with your lawyer and figure out the particulars of what your Illinois divorce will entail, it is important to consider how the decision to get divorced will affect your kids. While it may be tempting to shield kids from adult problems, being open about divorce can help foster emotional understanding and resilience. Here are some reasons why it is a good idea to tell your children about this significant life transition.

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Emotional Survival Guide to Surviving an Illinois Divorce

 Posted on September 11,2024 in Divorce

Wheaton Divorce LawyerIn Illinois, the legal process surrounding a divorce is complicated. Not only is the legal process complicated, but handling the emotions associated with divorce can be difficult as well.  Contact a lawyer to learn more about practical tips and strategies to help navigate the difficult emotional landscape of a divorce while ensuring you take care of yourself during this emotional time.

Acknowledge Your Emotions

The first step in surviving a divorce is to recognize and accept your emotions. Here is how to deal with them:

  • Allow yourself to feel – It is totally normal to experience a wide range of feelings, including sadness, anger, and confusion. Allow yourself to experience these emotions without judgment.

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Three Things to Know About Grey Divorce in Illinois

 Posted on September 09,2024 in Divorce

Wheaton Divorce LawyerAs the population ages, the "grey divorce" phenomenon is becoming increasingly common. This term refers to the growing trend of older adults (typically those over 50) seeking divorce after long-term marriages. In Illinois, navigating a gray divorce presents unique challenges and considerations. If you are thinking about pursuing a grey divorce, you need to strongly consider hiring a qualified lawyer. Here are three important things to know about grey divorce.

Division of Assets and Financial Considerations

One of the most significant aspects of Illinois divorce, especially grey divorce, is the division of assets accumulated over the course of a long marriage. In Illinois, just because assets are divided equitably does not mean equally. This can include retirement accounts, pensions, and investments, often requiring careful assessment and valuation.

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Back-to-School Planning During an Illinois Divorce

 Posted on September 03,2024 in Divorce

Wheaton Parental Responsibilities LawyerAs summer comes to an end, parents across Illinois are preparing for the back-to-school season. However, for those undergoing a divorce, this time can be especially challenging as both parents must coordinate educational needs amidst emotional and logistical changes. It is crucial to establish effective communication and prioritize the children's best interests during these transitions. Discuss with your lawyer the most effective ways to balance your responsibilities as a parent and your responsibilities as someone going through divorce proceedings.

Establish Clear Communication Channels with the Other Parent

Open lines of communication are essential when coordinating back-to-school arrangements during an Illinois divorce. Here are some tips on how to approach this:

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How to Keep Assets Safe When Divorcing

 Posted on August 30,2024 in Divorce

DuPage County Asset Distribution AttorneyDivorce is often a tumultuous time, not only emotionally but also financially. When splitting from your spouse, it is crucial to safeguard your assets to ensure that after your divorce, you are able to maintain financial stability. Contact a lawyer to learn more about what critical steps you can take to keep your assets safe during a divorce.

Understand How Much Money You Have

The first step in protecting your assets is understanding exactly what you have. This means taking a comprehensive inventory of all your financial accounts, property, investments, and any other assets. To do this, you will need to gather all bank statements, tax returns, retirement fund statements, and any documents related to shared properties.

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Three Legal Strategies for Complex Divorce in Illinois

 Posted on August 27,2024 in Divorce

DuPage County Divorc LawyerDeciding to end a marriage and pursue a divorce is a big decision. Once that decision is made, the real work begins. In Illinois, couples frequently find themselves grappling not only with emotional challenges but also with legal hurdles that can add complexity to an already difficult situation. As couples seek to untangle their lives and go their separate ways, understanding the options available for resolution is crucial. Contact a lawyer to learn more about three strategies that can help couples navigate complex divorces in Illinois.

Negotiation: The Traditional Divorce Approach

Negotiation remains a time-honored method for resolving disputes during divorce. In this approach, both parties engage in direct discussions to communicate their needs and desires regarding various issues. It is vital for each spouse to express their position clearly while remaining open to compromise.

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What to Know About Cryptocurrency and Divorce

 Posted on August 23,2024 in Property Division

Wheaton, IL divorce lawyerAs the popularity of cryptocurrency continues to rise, it increasingly becomes a factor in divorce proceedings. For couples in Illinois, understanding how cryptocurrencies are treated during a divorce can significantly impact asset division and financial settlements. If cryptocurrency is a factor in your divorce, discuss with an attorney what implications it may have on your divorce proceedings. Your lawyer will be able to 

provide clear insights for individuals facing a divorce involving cryptocurrencies.

Understanding Cryptocurrency and Marital Property

In Illinois, all property acquired during the marriage, including cryptocurrency, is generally considered marital property and subject to equitable distribution. This means any Bitcoin, Ethereum, or other digital assets obtained during the marriage may be divided between spouses.

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Is There a Way to Ensure the Court is Fair During My Divorce?

 Posted on August 21,2024 in Divorce

Wheaton, IL divorce attorneyThrough a stressful process like divorce, many individuals worry about the fairness of the court’s decisions. Luckily, there are proactive steps you can take to help ensure that the divorce proceedings are fair and equitable. Regardless of the specifics involved in your divorce, hire an attorney to represent you through these proceedings. Failing to hire a lawyer will increase the chance of a divorce settlement that is unfair to you.

The Advantage of Filing for Divorce First

If you find yourself headed for divorce, consider filing first. This strategic move can help frame the issues for the court and outline your perspectives regarding asset division, custody arrangements, and more. By establishing your position early in the process, you can set the tone for negotiations and potentially influence the court’s view of the case.

Filing first may also provide you with the opportunity to present your arguments to the judge, potentially leading to a more favorable interpretation of your needs and wishes.

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