DeKalb Divorce Lawyers

Knowledgeable Attorneys Representing Clients in DeKalb, Illinois Divorce Cases

Ending a marriage is a significant decision that can impact nearly every aspect of your life. From financial security to parental responsibilities, the divorce process requires careful consideration, and legal experience is needed to ensure that these issues are addressed correctly. Whether you and your spouse are in agreement or have substantial disputes to resolve, navigating the legal system can be difficult, which is why it is important to work with a skilled divorce lawyer.

At Mevorah & Giglio Law Offices, we are here to guide you through the divorce process with professionalism and care. Our legal team understands that each case is unique, and we will work diligently to develop strategies that address your specific needs. We have a strong record of success helping our clients achieve fair divorce settlements, so you can trust us to help you move forward with confidence.

Asset and Debt Division in an Illinois Divorce

When dividing marital property, Illinois uses equitable distribution, meaning that assets and debts are divided fairly rather than equally. The court will assess multiple factors when determining an equitable split, including:

• Any existing prenuptial or postnuptial agreements
• The length of the marriage
• Each spouse's financial and non-financial contributions to the marriage
• The financial circumstances of each spouse
• Each spouse's earning capacity and financial resources

Marital assets may include real estate, retirement accounts, business interests, and financial investments. Marital debts may entail mortgages, credit card balances, and other loans. Regardless of your situation, our firm will fiercely protect your financial future by negotiating a fair distribution of assets and liabilities.

Spousal Maintenance and Financial Stability

Spousal support may be awarded in cases where one spouse is at a financial disadvantage due to their reliance on income earned by the other spouse. Courts will evaluate several factors when determining if maintenance payments are appropriate, including:

• Contributions made to the marriage, such as homemaking or childcare
• The lifestyle maintained throughout the marriage
• The income and earning potential of each spouse
• The duration of the marriage
• The time needed for the lower-earning spouse to achieve financial independence

Our firm can assist you in seeking or contesting spousal maintenance orders. We can also help with modifications if a significant financial change happens.

Parental Responsibilities and Parenting Time

Instead of the term "custody", Illinois refers to concerns involving a couple's children as the allocation of parental responsibilities. This phrase encompasses the decision-making authority regarding key aspects of a child's upbringing, including:

• Education
• Medical care
• Religious upbringing
• Extracurricular activities

When determining how parental responsibilities should be divided, courts will always prioritize the child's best interests. Factors like the child's relationship with each parent, each parent's capability to provide a supportive home, and any past incidents of domestic violence will be considered.

Parenting time, previously known as visitation, outlines how much time a child will spend with each parent. State law encourages agreements in which both parents can maintain meaningful relationships with their children whenever possible. School routines, work schedules, and other responsibilities must be considered when creating a thorough parenting plan. Our team can help you develop a schedule that supports your child's well-being while protecting your parental rights.

Child Support and Additional Expenses

Illinois determines child support payments using the Income Shares Model, which calculates support based on both parents' combined income and, in some cases, the percentage of time each parent spends with the child. Child support payments may also include contributions toward:

• Health insurance and medical expenses
• Childcare costs
• Educational expenses, including tuition and school supplies
• Activities and enrichment programs

Courts may sometimes order additional contributions to cover a child's college tuition and related expenses. If a parent experiences a substantial change in income, a child support modification may be necessary.

Addressing Post-Divorce Modifications and Enforcement

Circumstances can change after a divorce is finalized, sometimes requiring modifications to court orders. Common reasons for post-divorce modifications include:

• A change in income due to job loss, promotion, or disability
• A parent relocating for work or personal reasons
• Adjustments in parenting time due to a child's developing needs
• Medical emergencies or unexpected financial expenses

If one party does not comply with a court order, legal enforcement may be necessary. Our firm can assist with enforcing child support, spousal maintenance, and parenting time orders to ensure that legal obligations are met.

Contact Our DeKalb, IL Divorce Attorneys

Divorce is a complex legal process that requires careful planning and skilled legal guidance. At Mevorah & Giglio Law Offices, we are committed to helping clients throughout their divorce cases. Whether you need assistance with property division, spousal maintenance, child-related matters, or post-divorce modifications, we will advocate for your best interests. Contact us today at 630-932-9100 to schedule a free consultation. Evening and Saturday appointments are available.