Tag Archive for: #1 Divorce attorney

Navigating the Holiday Season During Divorce: A Co-Parenting Guide

When we think of the holidays, we think of happiness and being surrounded by our loved ones. However, it can present a unique set of challenges for divorced – or divorcing – parents.

Whether this is your first holiday season post-divorce, amid a divorce, or you’re a seasoned co-parent, effective preparation and clear communication are crucial for a fulfilling holiday experience for your children.

Given that a divorce occurs approximately every 36 seconds somewhere in the United States, the importance of finding peaceful ways to co-parent cannot be more important. In this blog, we aim to provide practical tips and insights to help provide a peaceful holiday for you and your children. Here’s what you need to know.

Understanding Parental Responsibilities

It’s important to know that “custody” is no longer used. It is now called “parental responsibilities.” This includes two main things: parenting time (formerly “visitation”) and the power to make decisions for children. Parenting time is a schedule that shows when each parent spends time with the children. This schedule is created and approved by a judge in family court. If the parents can’t agree on the schedule, the judge will decide what’s best for the child and assign a schedule for the parents.

Parental responsibilities refer to the decision-making responsibilities that each parent will have on behalf of the child. Parents can agree to make these decisions together or divide them into categories, which should cover the following:

  • Education
  • Health
  • Religion
  • Extracurricular Activities

If the parents can’t agree on who gets what responsibility, the Illinois family court judge will allocate those responsibilities among them. Let’s dive into some tips that will help you make co-parenting easier this holiday season.

1. Review and Update Your Co-Parenting Plan

During the emotional and often stressful period of divorce, having a clear co-parenting plan can provide stability and predictability for both you and your children. This plan should outline how you and your ex-spouse will share responsibilities and make decisions regarding your children. If you’re unsure about how to create or modify your co-parenting plan, seeking the assistance of a family law attorney can be incredibly valuable.

A family law attorney can offer guidance and legal advice to help you develop a plan that provides clarity and structure throughout the holiday season. With a clear plan, you can aim for holiday celebrations filled with warmth, understanding, and the season’s magic.

2. Prioritize Communication and Planning

Children flourish when they have stability. To create a harmonious holiday season, it’s vital to present a united front and communicate holiday plans clearly and calmly. Share your holiday plans, including travel details, accommodations, and emergency contacts. Stay updated on any changes or delays affecting the agreed schedule. Keeping the lines of communication open promotes transparency. By communicating effectively, co-parents can build trust between one another. This partnership can help reassure children that the holidays can still be joyful and celebratory despite changes in the family dynamic.

3. Be Flexible and Willing to Compromise

The holiday season is often unpredictable, and flexibility can be your greatest asset. While it’s important to stick to your parenting plan as much as possible, be prepared to make minor adjustments as needed. This could mean being flexible with pick-up and drop-off times or accommodating last-minute changes. The goal is to prioritize your children’s happiness and well-being, even if it means making concessions.

4. Establish and Maintain Traditions

Maintaining holiday traditions can provide a sense of continuity and comfort for children post-divorce. Work with your ex-spouse to determine which traditions to maintain and explore opportunities to establish new ones. Involving your children in this decision-making process can enhance their sense of inclusion and security. Here are some creative approaches to traditional celebrations:

  • Go out to eat instead of cooking.
  • Have a holiday picnic in a new part of the house.
  • Eat dinner while watching holiday movies.
  • Buy new holiday decorations.
  • Spend time with extended family.
  • Change your gift-giving routine.

5. Prioritize Your Children’s Needs

Parents, caregivers, and educators play a crucial role in helping children cope emotionally during and after a divorce. Studies show that children often encounter significant difficulties in these times, especially in the first year or two after the divorce. It’s essential to understand that each child is different, and what’s a big deal for one child might not be as important to another.

Pay attention to their feelings and needs, and be supportive if they struggle with the changes. Involve your child in the decision-making process where appropriate, giving them a sense of ownership and excitement about the holidays. Remember, the goal is to create lasting memories and positive experiences for your child. Lastly, try to keep negative feelings about your ex-spouse to yourself and maintain a positive attitude when discussing holiday plans.

How Masters Law Group Can Help

The holidays can be emotionally taxing, especially after a recent divorce or separation, which can intensify these emotions. It’s important to prioritize self-care to be the best parent you can be. Your family’s well-being is paramount, so don’t let the emotional strain of a custody case weigh you down.

At Masters Law Group, our family law attorneys focus on helping clients assert their rights to further the best interests of their children. Attorney Erin E. Masters is a court-appointed Child Representative with experience advocating for children in these high-conflict matters. Attorney Anthony G. Joseph is an approved Guardian Ad Litem/Child Representatives list for the Domestic Relations Division of the Circuit Court of Cook County.

With a strong focus on assisting clients in Chicago and Chicago’s Western Suburbs (Elmhurst, Hinsdale, DuPage, Oakbrook), we offer various services to help parents, children, and families through difficult times like Divorce, Parenting Time, and Allocation of Parental Responsibilities.

If you require legal assistance, contact a member of our legal team today. Our attorneys will work with you to develop an appropriate action plan for your unique needs and goals. We will work diligently on your behalf and provide regular updates.

Contact us today to set up a complimentary consultation.

Domestic Violence Awareness Month With Masters Law Group

October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month. It’s a time when communities throughout the U.S. come together to shed light on domestic violence and stand by survivors. 

Almost 20 people in the United States experience physical abuse from an intimate partner every minute. This adds up to over 10 million women and men in a single year. Domestic violence is a widespread problem that touches people from all backgrounds. Its effects cause physical harm and emotional wounds that are endured for years.

In this blog, we’ll dive into the significance of Domestic Violence and how a family attorney can help bring positive change to the lives of survivors and their loved ones. Here’s what you need to know.

The Role of Domestic Violence Awareness Month

Domestic Violence Awareness Month serves a multitude of crucial purposes. It plays a vital role in increasing awareness about the gravity of domestic violence, effectively dispelling myths and stereotypes. By understanding the indicators and effects of abuse, individuals become better equipped to recognize and confront it. This month reinforces the message that survivors are not alone and that help is readily accessible.

Furthermore, Domestic Violence Awareness Month emphasizes the importance of prevention through educational efforts and community involvement. It fosters conversations about healthy relationships, consent, and bystander intervention. Let’s look at different types of abuse and how to identify it.

Understanding Domestic Violence

Domestic violence is a pattern of abusive behavior in a relationship, typically characterized by one partner using power and control over the other. Unfortunately, domestic violence knows no boundaries and can affect people of all genders, races, and socioeconomic backgrounds. Its far-reaching consequences impact the immediate victims and children who witness such abuse. 

Domestic violence can manifest in various forms. Understanding how abuse occurs and intersects can help you safely respond to situations. Below are some ways to identify the different types of abuse.

  • Physical abuse: This form is one of the most easily identified types. It involves physical violence, or threats of it, to maintain power over an individual. Because of this, survivors are afraid and uncertain when more abuse will occur. Physical abuse often reinforces the regular use of other, more subtle types.
  • Emotional abuse: Has non-physical behaviors that are meant to control, isolate, or frighten someone. These behaviors are often more subtle and hard to identify but are just as serious as other types of abuse.
  • Sexual Abuse: Sexual abuse is when a partner controls the physical and sexual intimacy in a relationship. This often involves acting in a way that is non-consensual and forced.
  • Financial Abuse: Financial or economic abuse occurs when an abusive partner extends their power and control into your financial situation.
  • Digital Abuse: Digital abuse uses technology and the Internet to bully, harass, stalk, intimidate, or control a partner. This behavior is often a form of verbal or emotional abuse conducted online. 

The Role of Family Attorneys

Family attorneys are crucial in addressing domestic violence cases and helping survivors rebuild their lives. Family attorneys are well-versed in family law and can guide survivors seeking protection orders, custody arrangements, and divorce proceedings. They help ensure that legal measures are in place to protect survivors and any children involved. These plans include finding safe housing, accessing resources, and establishing communication protocols with law enforcement. Here are some of the following resources they can use to help:

Child Custody and Visitation: Family attorneys advocate for the child’s best interests in cases involving children. They work to secure custody arrangements that protect the child from further harm and facilitate healing.

Restraining Orders: Family attorneys can help survivors obtain orders of protection, which legally prohibit the abuser from contacting or approaching the survivor. These orders provide a crucial layer of protection.

Advocacy in Court: Family attorneys are the voice of survivors in legal proceedings. They present evidence, argue, and advocate for their clients’ rights and safety, ensuring the survivor’s perspective is heard and respected.

Attorneys often have networks of professionals and organizations in domestic violence support, including counselors, shelters, and support groups. They can connect survivors with these resources to aid in their recovery.

Working With Masters Law Group

When going through a domestic dispute, it is often beneficial to seek assistance from family law professionals who have experience navigating the legal aspects of separation, divorce, and mediation. The experienced family law attorneys at Masters Law Group can advise on the legal aspects of your divorce. We can help you understand your rights, obligations, and options for resolving disputes while providing valuable guidance and support. Our main goal is to ensure that your rights and the best interests of your children are protected. Here are some of the areas that can help you navigate:

Parenting Time: If you have children, work closely with your attorney to determine the best child custody and visitation arrangements. Ensure that the agreed-upon arrangements prioritize your children’s well-being and best interests.

Mediation: Explore options such as mediation or collaborative divorce to help you and your ex-spouse reach mutually beneficial agreements outside of court. Your family law attorney can guide you through these processes and represent your interests during negotiations.

Post-divorce disputes: After the divorce is finalized, there may be circumstances that require modifications to child custody, visitation, or support arrangements. Stay in touch with your attorney to address any changes or issues that may arise in the future.

Remember, during this challenging period, Masters Law Group is here to support you and your legal rights. Working with our trusted attorneys can help alleviate the stress associated with domestic disputes, ensuring a smoother transition for both you and your children.

COMMUNITY RESOURCES

Chicago offers a range of important community resources for those affected by domestic violence. The Domestic Violence Legal Clinic provides legal assistance and advocacy services, ensuring survivors can access legal remedies. Apna Ghar offers culturally sensitive support and shelter to immigrant and refugee survivors. The Chicago Metropolitan Battered Women’s Network serves as a comprehensive resource hub, connecting survivors to various shelters, counseling, and legal aid services throughout the city.

Additionally, the Illinois Domestic Violence Hotline operates 24/7, offering immediate assistance, information, and referrals to those in crisis. These organizations and many others in Chicago are vital in providing support, resources, and community connections for individuals affected by domestic violence.

Final Thoughts

Domestic Violence Awareness Month serves as a reminder that domestic violence is a grave issue that affects countless lives. At Masters Law Group, our attorneys play an essential role in helping survivors break free from abusive situations and rebuild their lives. As we observe Domestic Violence Awareness Month, let us reaffirm our commitment to raising awareness, supporting survivors, and working together to create a world free from domestic violence.

Contact us today to discover how we can guide you toward a brighter, safer future.

Divorce vs. Legal Separation

There are numerous options available for couples facing challenges in their marriage. Two common actions that couples consider are divorce and legal separation. Understanding the distinction between these two choices is crucial in Illinois when making life-changing decisions.

Navigating divorce and legal separation in Illinois brings up a multitude of legal factors and emotional concerns. In this blog, our experienced Illinois-based Divorce and Family Law attorneys explore the differences and provide insight into the unique aspects of each process. 

Divorce vs. Legal Separation

Before delving into the process, it’s essential to understand some fundamental differences in an Illinois divorce or separation. A divorce terminates marriages, freeing both parties to remarry. On the other hand, a legal separation does not dissolve the marriage. Instead, it provides a legal framework for spouses to separate while addressing child custody and property division issues. Let’s take a deeper look at what each option entails.

Illinois Divorce

Divorce is a legal process that results in the termination of a marital union, allowing both spouses to return to the status of single individuals. The primary aspect of divorce is that it terminates the legal relationship between partners. Divorces divide not only their physical assets but also their debts, responsibilities, and future rights.

To file for divorce in Illinois, at least one of the spouses must have been a state resident for at least 90 days. This residency requirement ensures that the case gets filed in the appropriate jurisdiction. It’s crucial to note that Illinois is a no-fault divorce state, which means that you don’t have to prove wrongdoing or assign blame for the marriage breakdown. 

The only recognized ground for divorce is “irreconcilable differences,” which signifies that the marriage has broken down beyond repair. After the legal proceedings, the court issues a divorce decree addressing the division of property, spousal support (if applicable), child custody (Parenting Time), visitation, and child support arrangements.

Illinois Legal Separation

A legal separation is an alternative option for couples who wish to live apart and establish legally binding arrangements while remaining married. Unlike divorce, legal separation doesn’t dissolve the marriage itself. Instead, it outlines each spouse’s responsibilities, rights, and obligations, similar to a divorce decree, but without terminating the marital status.

People in Illinois seek legal separation for various reasons, including religious or personal considerations. It allows couples to establish specific terms related to property division, spousal support, child custody, visitation, and child support. Legal separation protects both parties, as they can enforce the terms outlined in the separation agreement through court orders.

Key Differences and Considerations

Divorce can have various emotional effects on you and your family, depending on the separation’s circumstances. It is essential to be aware of these potential effects and address them proactively. Let’s take a look at how some of these issues vary.

  • Parenting Time: Parenting Time (formerly called Child Custody) and support are crucial in divorce or legal separation cases involving children. Illinois courts prioritize the child’s best interests when determining parenting time arrangements and support payments.
  • Emotional Impact: Divorce often carries a more profound emotional impact, given that it signifies the end of the marital relationship. Legal separation can be viewed as a temporary arrangement, allowing couples to reassess their situation.
  • Religious or Personal Issues: Legal separation allows couples with religious or personal differences another avenue for divorce. It offers them a middle ground between maintaining their marriage and living apart.
  • Financial Considerations: Both divorce and legal separation address financial matters, but the implications may vary. Consulting legal and financial professionals is essential to ensure that your rights and assets are adequately protected.
  • Property Division: Illinois follows the principle of equitable distribution, which means that marital property is divided fairly but not necessarily equally between spouses. We must consider factors like the length of the marriage, the contributions of each spouse, and their financial circumstances.

Divorce and Legal Separation Process

Divorce and legal separation: Each option has its outcomes and impacts. To start either process, one spouse (called the petitioner) must submit a request to their circuit court.

Both divorce and legal separation involve similar legal procedures. These procedures can include discussions, mediation, and court hearings. Opting for a legal separation lets spouses keep certain marital benefits, like health insurance coverage. On the other hand, divorce brings more significant changes, such as the freedom to remarry and the end of spousal benefits.

If you want a legal separation, you can submit a Petition. This document states that you and your spouse live separately, including information similar to a Petition for Dissolution of Marriage.

You must file for legal separation in the county where:

  • Your spouse resides; OR
  • You and your spouse last resided as husband and wife; OR
  • If your spouse cannot be found in Illinois, the county in which you reside.

Remember, every case is different, and the legal steps may vary. It’s a good idea to consult a family law attorney to understand the process and consequences of divorce and legal separation in Illinois.

Divorce Mediation

If neither divorce nor legal separation sounds like the ideal outcome to your situation, there is another way to settle disputes: mediation.

Mediation is a form of alternative dispute resolution (ADR) that involves a neutral third party who facilitates communication between the parties to help them reach a mutually beneficial solution. Unlike a judge, the mediator does not make decisions for the parties; instead, they help the parties reach their agreement.

Mediation typically begins with both parties meeting with their mediator to discuss the issues at hand. The mediator then facilitates communication between the parties, helping them to identify and address their concerns. Once an agreement is reached, the mediator will draft a written contract that both parties can sign.

In some cases, mediation may not be successful. However, even in these situations, the parties may better understand each other’s positions and concerns, making future negotiations more straightforward.

Working With a Family Law Attorney

If you’re looking for a top lawyer in Illinois, consider working with the skilled attorneys at Masters Law Group. Masters Law Group is located in downtown Chicago, covering divorce cases in Cook County and surrounding regions. Our focus areas include divorce, legal separation, mediation, and other family law issues.

Our senior attorneys, Erin E. Masters, and Anthony G. Joseph, have been recognized by prestigious publications such as Best Lawyers, Super Lawyers, and Leading Lawyers, ensuring you have someone you can trust during your divorce. Furthermore, Erin E. Masters has been approved as a Mediator for the Cook County Domestic Relations Division and offers private mediation services. If you want to settle your family law matter without court intervention, contact Masters Law Group to schedule a mediation appointment.

If you’re considering a divorce, legal separation, or mediation services in Illinois, you don’t have to go it alone. Our dedicated attorneys are ready to skillfully advocate for your position and provide your voice when needed. Servicing Cook, Will, Lake, and Dupage counties, our attorneys can help guide you through the process and protect your rights every step of the way.

Contact us today to schedule a complimentary consultation and learn how we can support you through your divorce or legal separation.

The Era of Cryptocurrency Divorce

Cryptocurrency divorce is a new phenomenon sweeping the nation and the globe. If you are facing these unchartered waters, an experienced family law attorney is a must.

The rise of the cryptocurrency market has seen exponential growth, which has led to the less navigated world of cryptocurrency divorce.

Crypto assets are notoriously difficult to trace and control, and the legal landscape surrounding cryptocurrencies is still full of gray areas, making them complex to handle in divorce proceedings. At Masters Law Group, we understand the complexities of uncovering hidden assets, such as cryptocurrencies.

In this blog, we’ll walk you through everything you need about crypto assets in divorce cases to ensure a fair settlement. Here’s what you should know.

Understanding Cryptocurrency 

Cryptocurrency, a form of digital currency, utilizes cryptographic technology to secure transactions and verify the transfer of assets. Initially attractive for its anonymous transactions, it has evolved to become widely used for everyday purposes such as bill payments and online purchases. According to a recent NBC News poll, approximately 20% of Americans have engaged in cryptocurrency investments, trading, or usage, showcasing its growing presence in the financial landscape. Notably, the demographic group with the highest participation comprises men aged 18 to 49.

While Bitcoin remains the most well-known cryptocurrency, the market has seen the rise of other digital currencies, such as:

These alternatives have gained popularity due to their unique features and potential for diverse applications beyond financial transactions. As the world becomes more familiar with cryptocurrency and its benefits, its integration into various aspects of daily life will likely continue expanding. Let’s look at how crypto affects divorces across the United States.

Why Cryptocurrencies Matter in Divorce

Cryptocurrencies have emerged as a noteworthy factor in financial settlements during divorce proceedings. However, with the rising popularity and widespread adoption of cryptocurrencies, more divorce cases involve these digital assets. CNBC recently reported that in 2023, crypto played a significant percentage in divorces that ranged from 20% to 50%.

As the landscape of financial assets evolves, it becomes essential for divorcing couples and their legal representatives to stay informed about cryptocurrencies and their implications in the division of assets. Failure to address these digital assets adequately during divorce proceedings may lead to complications and disagreements in determining fair settlements.

Cryptocurrencies’ decentralized nature and relative anonymity can make it challenging to track and value them accurately, complicating the delicate process of dividing marital property. Additionally, sudden price fluctuations in the cryptocurrency market can significantly affect the overall value of a couple’s assets, further complicating matters.

Asset Division In Illinois

If you suspect that your spouse may be concealing cryptocurrency assets, there are steps you can take to investigate the matter thoroughly. In divorce proceedings, fully and honestly disclosing all assets, including cryptocurrencies, is crucial. In Illinois, dividing cryptocurrency assets follows a similar process as any other marital property.

Illinois does not adhere to the community property principle. Instead, the court will distribute assets purchased, converted, or appraised during the marriage in an equitable manner. It is important to understand that equitable does not necessarily mean equal; various factors are taken into account in determining the distribution, including:

  • Age, health, and financial circumstances of each spouse.
  • Contributions made to the marital estate.
  • Obligations related to previous marriages, as ordered by the court.
  • Considerations regarding child custody.
  • Pre and post-nuptial agreements.
  • Tax implications.
  • Duration of the marriage.
  • Alimony arrangements.

If you ever find yourself uncertain about the ownership of assets, seeking legal counsel promptly is advisable to avoid any confusion or ambiguity.

Agreements on Dividing Crypto Assets

Dividing crypto in divorce cases can be challenging due to their fluctuating value. However, with careful consideration, the process can be made relatively straightforward. Here are some approaches to handle it:

  1. Simple Division: One party receives a portion of the cryptocurrency as it is at the time of the divorce.
  2. Custodial Holding: A third-party custodian receives and holds the share of cryptocurrency until the divorce is finalized.
  3. Cryptocurrency Owner Liquidation: The asset owner converts the other party’s share into cash based on the digital currency’s value on the day of the sale.
  4. Liquidation With No Claim Upon Remaining Cryptocurrency: Similar to option #3, both parties agree that the original owner retains full title to the remaining cryptocurrency.

It’s important to note that there are no loopholes in divorce proceedings concerning cryptocurrency. While courts are familiar with handling the volatility of traditional assets, cryptocurrency introduces a new level of complexity.

Work With Masters Law Group

Navigating the complexities of cryptocurrency asset division during a divorce in Illinois can be overwhelming. At Masters Law Group, we understand the intricacies involved and are here to assist you every step of the way. Our skilled attorneys, serving communities across Chicago and the suburbs of Elmhurst, Hinsdale, DuPage, and Oakbrook, offer experience and insights into the world of the crypto divorce and can help you navigate this complex process.

Whether you have inquiries about divorce proceedings or require guidance on discovering digital assets and asset division, we are ready to provide answers and support.

Contact us today to schedule a complimentary consultation and learn how we can support you through your crypto divorce.

Chicago Divorce Lawyer

Navigating Divorce in Chicago: Tips from a Top Lawyer

Divorce is never an easy process, and it can be especially difficult to navigate in a state like Illinois where a quick Google search for “Illinois Divorce Lawyer” brings up 18,100,000 results. Plus, the complex legal system, coupled with the emotional turmoil of separating from your spouse, can make the whole ordeal seem even more overwhelming.

However, with the help of a top Chicago divorce lawyer, you can navigate this challenging period and help achieve a positive outcome for you and your family. Here are some tips from our Chicago-based law firm, Masters Law Group, on how to navigate divorce in Chicago.

Choose the Right Lawyer

One of the most important decisions you’ll make during the divorce process is choosing the right lawyer.

When seeking a divorce lawyer, reliability is essential. It is vital to evaluate how effectively they communicate with you to establish a positive relationship. A strong rapport is crucial because divorce cases can take several months to settle. While the lawyer’s goal should not be excelling in personability and charm, (it should be excelling in family law, especially divorce law), it is important that you trust and respect their professional advice and want to work with them.

Throughout the process, you may have multiple questions, concerns, or disputes, and you require someone who can ease your worries. At Masters Law Group, we begin by understanding your goals for the divorce and how you wish to feel once the process is complete. We discuss your objectives in detail to provide exceptional legal representation. Additionally, we offer free consultations to help you evaluate if we are the right fit for your needs.

Gather Necessary Documentation

Once you’ve decided on a family law attorney, be prepared and gather any necessary documentation that your lawyer will need to build your case. This includes financial records, such as bank statements, tax returns, investment accounts, and real estate records. You should also provide your lawyer with any evidence you may have that supports your case. Such as text messages or emails that demonstrate your spouse’s infidelity or neglectful behavior.

When it comes to property division, it’s important to make a list of all assets and debts that you and your spouse share. This includes assets that are solely in your name or your spouse’s name. This includes everything from retirement accounts and investments to real estate and personal property. Having a detailed inventory of your assets will help your lawyer build a stronger case and ensure that you receive a fair settlement.

It’s also crucial to be honest with your lawyer about any challenges you may face during the divorce process. This includes concerns about child custody or your spouse hiding assets or income (including digital assets like cryptocurrencies. Being upfront and honest with your lawyer in the long run will only help you achieve a positive outcome.

Consider Mediation

Mediation can be an effective way to reach a settlement in a divorce case, without the need for a lengthy and expensive court battle. The mediator’s role is to facilitate the negotiation process, help both parties understand each other’s perspectives, and explore alternative options for resolving disputes. The mediator does not make any decisions for either party but instead works to ensure that both parties have equal opportunities to voice their opinions and arrive at a mutually agreeable outcome.

Mediation can be an effective option for couples who are willing to work together and compromise to achieve a positive outcome. It’s particularly useful for couples who have children, as it can help reduce the stress and trauma that children often experience during a divorce.

Working With Masters Law Group

If you’re looking for a top lawyer in Illinois, consider working with the skilled attorneys at Masters Law Group.

Masters Law Group is located in downtown Chicago, covering divorce cases in Cook County and surrounding regions. Our areas of focus include divorce, allocation of parental responsibilities, and other family law issues.

Our firm has earned a top spot on the list of Best Law Firms 2023 by Best Lawyers® and U.S. News & World Report, and we are highly esteemed and respected by leading peer review publications such as Best Lawyers, Super Lawyers, and Leading Lawyers. Furthermore, our senior attorneys, Erin E. Masters and Anthony G. Joseph, have been recognized by these prestigious publications year after year, showcasing their strong work ethic, character and skill in family law; ensuring that you have someone you can trust on your side during your divorce.

If you’re considering a divorce in the state of Illinois, you don’t have to go it alone. Having the right attorney fighting in your corner can make a significant difference to the outcome of your case. At Masters Law Group, we are dedicated to helping our clients achieve the best possible outcome in their divorce proceedings.

Contact us today to schedule your complimentary consultation.

Chicago’s #1 Divorce Law Firm

Whether you are going through a divorce, a child custody dispute, or other family law issue, you want to find the best family law attorney for your situation. Today we’ll tell you why we’re the #1 premier family law group in Chicago for those facing divorce.

As the vows are read aloud, no one anticipates a future divorce. Whether you’ve been married 50 days or 50 years, situations change, people change, and life simply doesn’t work out how you imagined it. And that’s ok.

Marriage and divorce are both common experiences for adults, although both can be challenging. About 90% of people in Western cultures marry by age 50. In the United States, about 50% of married couples divorce, the sixth-highest divorce rate in the world. Subsequent marriages have an even higher divorce rate: 60% of second marriages end in divorce, and 73% of all third marriages end in divorce.

So if you find yourself in the extremely tough position of ending your marriage, you need the right support on your side. There are many legal professionals to choose from, so it’s crucial to know what to do and who to ask for help.

A Little Bit About Masters

A premier family law group servicing Cook, Will, Lake, and Dupage counties, Masters Law Group LLC is a Chicago-based law firm that has a unique depth of knowledge, experience and talent in the Family Law and Divorce field

Masters Law Group’s dedicated attorneys have a unique depth of knowledge, experience and talent in the Family Law and Divorce field. including DuPage, Will and Lake. 

Our downtown firm and attorneys have won many awards for their work, including but not limited to, Best Law Firms by US News for years 2021 and 2022, Leading Lawyers recognizing Erin Masters, Super Lawyers recognizing Anthony G. Joseph, The Top 100 Lawyers, and the 10 Best Attorneys for client satisfaction.

As of last week, we have been formally recognized as 2023 Best Lawyers!

BEST LAWYERS 2023

Simply put, our commitment and dedication to clients is simply unmatched.

Let’s take a further look at our attorneys, and what we do best.

Our Attorneys

As you can see, our award-winning attorneys are highly experienced in their field of work. Especially when it comes to divorce in the state of Illinois.

Erin E. Masters is the principal of Masters Law Group, located in Chicago, Illinois. Masters Law Group concentrates in the area of domestic relations, which includes a heavy focus divorce and the relative legal subsidiaries that span from divorce (such as Divorce Mediation, Parenting Time, Allocation of Parental Responsibilities and Post-Divorce Disputes).

Erin E. Masters

Ms. Masters earned her Bachelors of Arts degree in Psychology from the University of California, San Diego, where she attended on a merit based scholarship. She would go on to receive her Juris Doctorate and Certificate in Child and Family Law from Loyola University of Chicago, School of Law, in May of 2004.

Erin was admitted to the Illinois Bar in November 2004 and to the General Bar for the United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois in 2005 and the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Wisconsin in 2020. Ms. Masters was admitted to the United States Supreme Court in March 2009.

Throughout her career Ms. Masters has represented a variety of clients, both pre-decree and post-decree. In addition to representing clients, Ms. Masters is also a court-appointed Child Representative and has experience advocating for children in these high-conflict matters. Further, she has also been appointed by the Circuit Court of Cook County to mediate complex family law cases.

Anthony G. Joseph is a senior and founding attorney at the firm and received his B.A. degree in Global Economic Relations from the University of the Pacific in Stockton, CA.

He obtained both his J.D. degree and Certificate in Trial Advocacy from The John Marshall Law School in Chicago, Illinois.

Mr. Joseph was admitted to the Illinois Bar in November 2010, the Federal General Bar and Trial Bar for the United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois in 2012 and the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Wisconsin in 2020.

Anthony G. Joseph

Furthermore, Anthony is an active trial lawyer whose practice focuses exclusively on Family Law, with a particular emphasis on International Child Abduction and cross-border custody issues pursuant to the Hague Convention of 1980 and the UCCJEA. Mr. Joseph also publishes in the area of civil litigation.

Mr. Joseph is “AV” Preeminent Rating from Martindale-Hubbell Peer Review, which is the highest peer review rating available and has been named a “Rising Star” by Illinois Super Lawyers in both 2019, 2020 and 2021. Mr. Joseph is also on the list of approved Guardian Ad Litem/Child Representatives for the Domestic Relations Division of the Circuit Court of Cook County.

Karly Armstrong is an associate attorney at Masters Law Group, she received her B.A. in Political Science & Interdisciplinary Social Sciences – International Studies from the State University of New York at Buffalo in 2016 and graduated magna cum laude. 

Throughout her time at the State University of New York at Buffalo, she was in the advanced honors program and wrote her undergraduate thesis on Middle Eastern women’s rights movements.

Karly Armstrong

Karly received her J.D. from Loyola University Chicago School of Law in May 2021. At Loyola, she was on the ABA Negotiations Team. She also was a student clinician at the Loyola Community Law Center where she served as a Guardian ad litem in contested minor guardianship proceedings. Karly took her Illinois bar exam in July 2021 and passed. She has been admitted to the Illinois bar since November 2021.

Karly is proactive in helping those who are seeking advice when it comes to divoce in the state of Illinois.

What Does a Divorce Attorney Do?

Divorce lawyers provide advice on marriage termination, including dividing assets, custody, and the options available to the client under the law. When looking for a divorce lawyer, word-of-mouth referrals from friends, family, and other professionals are a useful place to start.

Seeking out attorneys who specialize in areas such as custody or division of assets can also be beneficial.

Masters Law Group understands that divorce is a stressful situation and that our clients want to move on with their lives. As such, we move through settlement negotiations, mediation or litigation with our clients’ assurance and well being in mind.

Divorce cases involving substantial assets or complex estates require specialized knowledge.  Masters Law Group is skilled at identifying and valuing assets and wealth, including real estate, securities, business interests, retirement funds, pension plans, tax shelters (domestic and foreign), overseas accounts, stock options, trusts and other actual or potential sources of wealth.

Let’s Get to Work

We understand everyone’s individual needs are different, which is why our first step is getting to know you and understanding your unique situation. 

Whether you are facing a contested divorce, civil union, or series of different divorce-related issues, our firm’s attorneys are ready to skillfully advocate for your position and provide your voice when you need it most. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.