Lake County Divorce and Family Law Attorneys
Going through a divorce or child custody battle weighs heavily on all parties involved. Even a joyous event like adoption brings unexpected levels of stress and anxiety. Each family and situation is unique. When you have family or divorce-related legal needs in Lake County, choosing a dedicated Lake County family and divorce attorney is the right decision.
Whether establishing parenting time and custody or addressing financial support and asset division, you need a legal advisor skilled at keeping the lines of communication open between both parties. Sometimes talks break down, and an agreement fails to come to fruition. A skilled legal team, like Anderson Boback & Marshall, supporting you, increases the likelihood of reaching terms suitable to both parties. Our experienced attorneys in Lake County can help guide you in all areas of family law.
Family Law Matters You Might Face in Lake County
Reach out for legal guidance related to your family’s needs, such as when you’re faced with a major life decision.
Divorce
Many questions arise when a couple faces the prospects of divorce. For example, how will we divide assets, or would a mediator be the right choice for us? While there is no waiting period to file for an Illinois divorce, understanding the family and divorce laws aids in taking the next steps. Consulting your Lake County attorney ensures your rights are covered and a settlement can be reached quickly and efficiently. There are so many facets to a divorce that knowing the next best step is hard without trusted legal guidance. Consider where you may fit in these areas:
- High Asset Divorce
- Military Divorce
- Same-Sex Divorce
- Child Custody and Parenting Time
- Property Division
- Divorce Litigation
- Mediation
- Collaborative Divorce
- Legal Separation
Spousal Maintenance, Child Support, and Parenting Plans
Resolving financial support and determining parental responsibilities are two vital and often emotional aspects of divorce. Collaborating with your attorney in Lake County to outline needs and expectations as the foundation of an agreement will help make this part of the process smoother in court. You may need counsel about:
- Spousal Support (also known as Alimony or divorce maintenance)
- Child Support and Illinois’ evolving state guidelines
- Parental Responsibilities Allocation including parenting time and decision-making roles
Prenuptial Agreements and Post-Nuptial Agreements
Making a vow to love, honor, and cherish until death takes courage. While you hope for the best, the payoff of establishing a prenuptial agreement or post-nuptial agreement cannot be understated. Each option provides financial security and stability in the event of a divorce. Reasons to opt for post-nuptial and prenuptial agreements, include:
- Establishing a plan to divide property and assets
- Protecting the rights of children from a prior marriage or relationship
- Estate planning in the event of medical or health problems
- Outlining better financial outcomes in the event of infidelity
- Maximizing tax savings
- Avoiding a contentious divorce
- Protecting family businesses and future inheritances
- Unique issues relevant to millennial couples
Adoption
Choosing to give a child a loving home through adoption is a wonderful way to expand your family. The rewards outweigh anything you could imagine. Working with an experienced family law attorney makes the process smoother as you navigate the complexities that the adoption process brings. There are many types of adoptions, and each one requires the expertise of an experienced family law attorney. Here are some examples:
- Step-Parent
- Relative
- Agency
- Foster Parent
- Interstate
- Grandparent
- International
Schedule an online consultation
Compassionate and Results-Driven Family Law Attorneys Serving Lake County
Handle your family law matters with the assistance of a team dedicated to protecting your rights. At Anderson Boback & Marshall, our mission is to help solve your family law issues using our wealth of knowledge and skillful advocacy to get you the outcome you deserve. Let our commitment to honesty, integrity, and compassion set you at ease.
We continually strive to communicate openly with the personal attention you need during trying times. We’re not your average divorce lawyers. We listen with empathy and educate you on your rights so that you can make the best decisions for you and your family, and we stand up for children’s rights, focusing on their future well-being. When you need to put up a strong fight for your rights in the courtroom, count on us.
Contact us online or call us at 312-715-0870 to schedule a family law consultation in Lake County today.
Frequently Asked Questions About Divorce in Lake County
To file for divorce in Lake County, at least one spouse must have resided in Illinois for a minimum of 90 days prior to filing. Additionally, you can file in the county where either spouse resides.
The duration of a divorce varies based on factors like case complexity and court schedules. On average, an uncontested divorce may conclude within a few months, while contested cases can extend longer.
The cost of filing for divorce in Lake County includes court filing fees, which vary and may be subject to periodic updates. Additional costs could include service fees, attorney fees, court reporter fees, and expenses related to mediation or expert evaluations. For the most accurate and up-to-date filing fees, consult the Lake County Circuit Clerk’s office or speak with one of our attorneys, who can help you understand all potential costs involved in your case. You may also review our comprehensive divorce attorney fees guide for more details on attorney fees in Illinois.
Illinois follows the principle of equitable distribution, meaning marital property is divided fairly, though not necessarily equally. Factors considered include, but are not limited to: the length of the marriage, contributions of each spouse, and economic circumstances. Review our Divorce and Property Division Guide for mor detailed guidance.
It’s crucial to be aware of common mistakes that could compromise your emotional well-being or Preparing for divorce involves both legal and emotional readiness. Key steps include:
- Understanding Your Financial Picture: Gather documents like tax returns, bank statements, and marital asset records to ensure you have a clear view of your finances.
- Considering Custody and Parenting Plans: If children are involved, think about what custody arrangement would work best for them. Courts prioritize the child’s best interests.
- Choosing the Right Legal Guidance: A local attorney familiar with Lake County courts and family law can help you avoid costly mistakes and ensure your rights are protected.
Yes, high-asset divorces can present unique challenges, including complex property division and valuation of assets. It’s important to be aware of these challenges to protect your interests. Review our article on how to avoid the common mistakes in high asset divorce.
In an uncontested divorce in Lake County, both spouses must agree on all major issues, including property division, child custody, and support. Once agreements are finalized, the process typically involves:
- Filing the appropriate paperwork with the Lake County Circuit Court.
- Attending a brief hearing for the judge to review and approve the agreement. (Some courtrooms may permit finalization by affidavit in lieu of having a hearing.)
Uncontested divorces are faster and less expensive than contested cases but still require accurate legal documentation to avoid delays.
Some common mistakes during a divorce in Illinois include:
- Failing to gather complete financial information, which can impact property division and support calculations.
- Making emotional decisions, like agreeing to unfavorable terms to “end it quickly.”
- Neglecting to seek legal advice, which can lead to errors in agreements that may require costly modifications later.
Avoiding these pitfalls helps protect your rights and ensures a smoother process.
Protecting your rights during a divorce trial requires preparation and strong legal representation. Key steps include:
- Gathering Evidence: Ensure you have complete documentation of your finances, parenting involvement, and any other relevant issues.
- Working Closely with Your Attorney: A skilled divorce attorney will present your case effectively and address any claims made by the opposing party.
- Staying Composed: Avoid emotional outbursts during trial proceedings, as they can impact the court’s perception of your case.
By being prepared and working with an experienced attorney familiar with Illinois divorce laws, you can ensure your interests are fully represented.
The divorce process in Illinois typically involves:
- Filing a Petition: One spouse files a Petition for Dissolution of Marriage with the court.
- Serving the Petition: The other spouse is served the petition and given time to respond.
- Temporary Orders: The court may issue temporary orders for child support, custody, or spousal maintenance during the divorce.
- Discovery: Both parties exchange financial information and other relevant details.
- Negotiation or Mediation: Many cases are resolved through mediation or settlement discussions to avoid trial. (Note: sometimes this happens prior to temporary orders being issued or discovery exchanged, in certain situations.)
- Trial (if needed): If no agreement is reached, a judge will decide on contested issues.
- Final Judgment: The court issues a Judgment for Dissolution of Marriage, finalizing the divorce.
Each case is unique, and an attorney can help ensure the process goes smoothly while protecting your rights.
