DeKalb, Illinois Family Law Attorneys

Lawyers Providing Legal Support for Family Law Matters in DeKalb, IL

Family law issues can be deeply personal matters. These cases require not only a thorough understanding of Illinois law, but also a compassionate approach that emphasizes a family's well-being. Whether you need to establish paternity, modify child support, or secure guardianship, navigating the legal system can be overwhelming without the right guidance.

A family law attorney at Mevorah & Giglio Law Offices can provide essential legal support by explaining your rights, handling court filings, and advocating for the best possible outcome for your family. We have the skills to assist you, whether you are in the early stages of a case or are facing a complicated legal dispute. With our team by your side, you can feel confident that your case is in good hands.

Adoption

Adoption can be a fulfilling way to grow a family, but the process involves multiple legal steps that need to be carefully followed. The requirements vary depending on the type of adoption, and each case must comply with Illinois adoption laws. Our attorneys can assist with:

• Stepparent Adoptions: This common form of adoption typically requires the termination of the other biological parent's rights.
• Agency Adoptions: This involves working with a licensed adoption agency, undergoing home studies, and meeting specific state regulations.
• Private Adoptions: This may occur without agency involvement, requiring legal agreements to ensure that all parties' rights are protected.
• International Adoptions: Legal guidance is essential for this type of adoption, as it requires compliance with both U.S. and foreign adoption laws.

Paternity

Establishing paternity is crucial for securing parental rights and ensuring that children receive the support they need. In Illinois, paternity can be established in a few ways:

• Voluntary Acknowledgement of Paternity (VAP): If both parents agree on paternity, they can sign a VAP form, which grants legal rights withouta court order.
• Administrative Paternity Order: This may be issued by the Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services (HFS) when genetic testing confirms paternity.
• Court-Ordered Paternity Testing: If there is a dispute, a court may order DNA testing to establish legal parentage.

Once paternity is established, the father can seek custody or parenting time. The child also gains access to benefits such as inheritance rights and health insurance coverage.

Child Custody and Parenting Time

Child custody, legally referred to as the allocation of parental responsibilities, determines how parents will make major choices regarding a child's upbringing. Parenting time, formerly known as visitation, details when each parent will spend time with the child.

Illinois courts prioritize the child's best interests when making custody determinations. Some factors that influence custody decisions include:

• The ability of each parent to maintain a stable and secure living environment for the child
• The child's bond with each parent
• The child's preferences, depending on their age and maturity
• Any history of domestic violence or substance abuse

In many cases, parents will work together to create a parenting plan that specifies how decision-making responsibilities will be handled and provides schedules for parenting time. If an agreement cannot be reached, the court will decide based on what is best for the child.

Child Support in Illinois

Child support ensures that children receive financial support from both parents. Illinois follows an income shares model, meaning support amounts are based on both parents' incomes and the child's needs. An attorney can assist with:

• Calculating child support and ensuring payments align with Illinois guidelines
• Modifying support orders if a parent experiences a significant financial change
• Enforcing child support if a parent fails to pay

Mevorah & Giglio Law Offices can help make sure that child support obligations are accurately calculated, fairly structured, and consistently upheld in order to maintain financial stability for the child's well-being.

Guardianship for Minors and Adults

Guardianship is a legal process in which a person is appointed to care for a minor or an adult who cannot manage their own affairs. This type of arrangement may be needed when a child's parents can no longer care for them or when an adult becomes incapacitated due to age, disability, or illness.

There are two main types of guardianship in Illinois:

• Guardianship of a minor allows a responsible adult to make legal, educational, and medical decisions for a child when the parents cannot do so.
• Guardianship of an adult applies when a person can no longer make decisions for themselves due to mental or physical incapacity.

Obtaining guardianship requires filing a petition with the court and showing that the arrangement is in the best interests of the person in need. Our lawyers can help clients navigate this process and make sure they meet all of their legal requirements.

Contact Our DeKalb Family Law Attorneys

Family law matters can be legally complex and emotionally overwhelming. By having strong legal representation, you can help protect your rights and provide for the well-being of your family. At Mevorah & Giglio Law Offices, we are committed to providing clear guidance and effective advocacy in all family law matters. Contact our offices at 630-932-9100 to discuss your case in a free consultation and take the next step toward a resolution of the issues you are facing.