Tag Archive for: legal seperation

Oak Brook Divorce Attorney

If you are facing divorce in Oak Brook, Illinois, or the surrounding suburbs, you’ll want the support and guidance of a local skilled divorce attorney to navigate the process.

Divorce is undoubtedly one of life’s most challenging transitions, impacting not only the separating couple but also their family and loved ones, especially any children involved. In this blog, we’ll discuss the role of a local Illinois divorce attorney and how they can assist you through the new year and beyond. Here’s what you need to know.

Navigating Divorce in Oak Brook, Illinois

When you’re confronted with divorce in Oak Brook, Illinois, seeking the assistance of a knowledgeable and local divorce attorney is essential. Oak Brook residents can consistently depend on trusted divorce attorneys to embrace these changes with compassion and support. Our team of dedicated Oak Brook divorce attorneys is dedicated to remaining up-to-date with any alterations in divorce laws, helping to ensure that your case is treated in a professional manner and follows the most recent Illinois laws and legislations.

We celebrate the diversity of family structures in our community, understanding that families come in various shapes and sizes. This includes same-sex couples, blended families, and more. Our Oak Brook divorce attorneys are here to support you.

Moreover, we’re attuned to the growing preference for less adversarial approaches to divorce, such as mediation and collaborative methods. Our attorneys are here to be your dedicated guides through these alternative dispute resolution processes, helping you achieve a more amicable resolution that respects your unique circumstances and ensures a friendlier path forward. 

Oak Brook, Il Legal Separation

A legal separation is an alternative option for individuals with religious concerns or insurance issues who may be discouraged from seeking a formal divorce. A legal separation could be the preferred course of action.  With a legal separation, many of the same issues determined in a divorce can be adjudicated, but without the finality of a legal divorce being granted.

This approach 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.

Oak Brook, Il Civil Union Divorce

Civil unions offer a legal framework for two adults, regardless of gender, to form a recognized relationship. When it comes to establishing or dissolving a civil union, unique challenges can emerge. Therefore, having a knowledgeable Oak Brook Divorce Attorney by your side is crucial to navigate every step effectively.

Dissolving a civil union closely resembles that of dissolving a marriage. In Illinois, any couple seeking to dissolve their civil union has the legal right to do so. To obtain a certified copy of the Dissolution of Civil Union records, interested couples should visit the county circuit court clerk’s office where their civil union was originally granted.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) – Divorce in Oak Brook, Il

1. What are the grounds for divorce in Oak Brook, Illinois?

  • You can file for divorce in Illinois on fault-based and no-fault grounds. No-fault grounds typically involve “irreconcilable differences,” where the marriage has broken down beyond repair. Fault-based grounds can include adultery, abandonment, and cruelty.

2. How long does the divorce process usually take in Illinois?

  • The duration of a divorce case varies depending on various factors, such as the complexity of the issues involved and the court caseload. On average, it may take several months to over a year to finalize a divorce in Oak Brook. 

3. Can I modify my parenting plan or spousal support orders in Oak Brook, Illinois?

  • Yes, it is possible to modify support orders if there has been a significant change in circumstances, such as a change in income, employment, or the child’s needs. However, you must go through the proper legal process to make these changes.

While our frequently asked questions are for informational purposes, they should not replace legal advice tailored to your specific situation. Working with an Oak Brook divorce attorney can give you the proper personalized advice based on your unique situation.

Working With Masters Law Group 

If you’re currently residing in Illinois and seeking a divorce attorney to assist you in finalizing your divorce, Masters Law Group is here to provide the support you need. Our team of experienced divorce attorneys and mediators is fully prepared to advocate for you and your family.

Erin E. Masters and Anthony G. Joseph have consistently earned recognition from esteemed publications year after year (including Best Lawyers, Best Law Firm, Top 100 Lawyers and Leading Lawyers), a testament to their unwavering work ethic, strong character, and experience in family law. Our track record of success reassures you have a trustworthy ally throughout your divorce proceedings.

If you’re searching for further guidance and answers to questions about divorce, legal separation, child support, or any related family law matters in Oak Brook and its surrounding areas, don’t hesitate to reach out to us.

Contact us today to schedule your complimentary consultation.

Navigating Divorce and Social Media

Navigating divorce in today’s digital age of social media might seem impossible. But when it comes to your divorce, social media posting should be temporarily avoided.

Social media has seamlessly integrated into our daily lives, offering a platform for reconnecting with old friends and sharing life’s milestones.

Startling statistics underline the pivotal role that social media plays in divorce proceedings. Astonishingly, 81 percent of divorce attorneys report that spouses actively scour the internet in search of evidence to bolster their claims during divorce cases.

In this blog, we’ll explore some essential tips for managing your online presence during a divorce. We’ll also discuss how a divorce attorney can assist you in handling the complexities of divorce in the digital age. So, let’s dive into what you need to know about divorce and social media today.

Privacy Matters

Having everything at our fingertips can be a great advantage, and social media offers various options to control who can see your posts, photos, and personal information. Unfortunately, Social media usage has had a significant effect when it comes to relationships ending in divorce.

When a marriage does break down, information posted on social media can increasingly become a factor in divorce proceedings. A recent survey found:

  • 33% of divorce cases result from online affairs.
  • 66% of cases involved evidence found on Facebook or other social networks.

If you are going through a divorce, reviewing and adjusting your privacy settings to limit access to your profile is crucial. Emotional posts or comments made in the heat of the moment can quickly escalate conflicts and complicate divorce proceedings. Remember that anything you post online can be used as evidence in court, so use caution and avoid venting your frustrations on social media. By doing so, you can maintain control over your personal life and contribute to a smoother divorce process.

Avoid Sharing Financial Details Online

In the divorce process, you must provide comprehensive financial information. This includes income earned, real estate purchased, and investments made during the marriage. However, some things are separate property. These are things you owned before you got married or got as gifts or inheritances during your marriage.

It’s important to know the difference between marital and separate property to confirm everything’s divided fairly in your divorce. It’s important to recognize that your social media activity can be used to challenge the accuracy of the financial information you’ve disclosed. This can significantly impact the division of marital property. A divorce attorney with experience can guide you through this process and protect your rights.

Don’t Overshare Support Obligations

Suppose you anticipate paying or receiving spousal or child support (alimony). In that case, these payments are usually determined based on the income earned by both you and your ex-spouse. What you share online can be used to scrutinize the income you claim or the income you should realistically earn. Courts may use your online presence as evidence to establish your financial capacity accurately.

It’s advisable to prioritize constructive communication during this time and address sensitive issues in private rather than airing them on social media platforms. Seeking advice from a family law attorney is highly recommended when addressing support obligations. An experienced attorney can help you understand your rights and obligations, negotiate fair terms, and represent your interests in court if necessary.

Work With A Divorce Attorney

Navigating divorce and social media might seem difficult. At Masters Law Group, our experienced family law attorneys are here to provide valuable assistance, helping to ensure that your rights and best interests remain at the forefront of every decision. Here’s how a divorce attorney can help you effectively handle social media during divorce:

  • Parenting Time: If you have children, it’s essential to work closely with your attorney to determine the most suitable arrangements for child custody and visitation. We aim to help create arrangements prioritizing your children’s well-being and best interests.
  • Mediation and Alternative Dispute Resolution: We encourage exploring options like mediation and collaborative divorce, which can facilitate mutually beneficial agreements outside the courtroom. Our family law attorneys will skillfully guide you through these processes, representing your interests and helping you secure a smoother negotiation experience.
  • Post-Divorce Modifications: Life can bring unexpected changes even after the divorce is finalized. Circumstances may arise that require modifications to parental responsibilities, visitation, or support arrangements. Our attorneys are here to assist you in addressing these changes promptly and effectively, protecting your rights and the interests of your children.

Final Thoughts

Divorce is undoubtedly a challenging life transition, and social media can either exacerbate or alleviate its emotional toll. By carefully managing your online presence, you can minimize potential conflicts and maintain your dignity during this trying time. 

You don’t have to go alone if you’re considering a divorce, legal separation, or mediation services in Illinois. 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 you through the process every step of the way.

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