In Illinois, either spouse may ask the court to order alimony (also known as spousal support) while a divorce is pending or once the divorce is final (or both). Generally, the higher-earning spouse pays support to the lower earning spouse so the lower earner can maintain a reasonable standard of living while figuring out how to become self-supporting.
Overview of Annulment and Void Marriages Annulment is often misunderstood, because popular culture and religion tend to present inaccurate views of what an annulment is in terms of family law. This article focuses on "civil annulments" not "religious annulments," which can only be granted by a church or clergy member.
Couples considering marriage today are three times more likely to make a prenuptial agreement than spouses were ten years ago. No longer just a protection for the wealthy, prenuptial agreements are used by couples from all income brackets to decide how their property will be divided if they divorce.
The following basic information can get you started with a divorce (also called a "dissolution of marriage") in the State of Illinois.
How is a divorce case started in Illinois? A dissolution of marriage (divorce) is commenced by the filing of a "petition" (legal paperwork requesting a divorce).
An Illinois lawyer answers common questions about child custody.
Here are some common questions and answers about divorce, child custody, child support and alimony in Illinois.
The biggest tactical advantage of filing for divorce first is that the party who filed first will also get to present evidence first at a trial.
Although parents may end their relationship with one another, both parents have a continuing duty to financially support their children, regardless of whether they are involved in their children's lives. Parents that hide income or quit a well-paying job to reduce their child support obligation are making a mistake - one that may ultimately backfire.