Agreements Outside of Divorce Papers: What You Need to Know
If you are getting divorced, you know that there are a lot of details to consider. One important thing to remember is that any agreements outside of your divorce papers – even verbal ones – may not be enforceable. That’s because of something called the “Four Corners Rule” which applies to contracts. The settlement you reach with your soon-to-be ex-spouse is a contract so these rules will probably apply.
Digital Security During Your Divorce
Divorce proceedings involve sensitive and confidential information that must be protected from unauthorized access. To safeguard your digital life, here are some tips about best practices and considerations to protect your digital privacy, especially when it comes to confidential information you are sharing with your lawyer. Here are some good ideas and practices to use, both now and after your divorce.
No, your friends and google do not know more law than your attorney
When it comes to divorce, everyone has an opinion. From your sister’s dog-walker to your neighbor’s hairdresser, to Facebook and Google, and all the AI chatbots, it seems like everyone and everything has something to say about the best way to move forward with your case. While these opinions may be well-meaning, relying on them can be fraught with peril.
Will AI Replace Lawyers? Nope!
I was asked idly by a non-lawyer friend if I thought AI would replace attorneys any time soon. The answer is no and here is why.
Where You Live Matters – When It Comes to Your Divorce
Did you know that the place to file for your divorce might not be the same county where you got married? Yep – where you file your divorce is where you live now, which may or may not be where you said “I do”
Lawyers are Not Robots
In the age of technology, it’s easy to forget that lawyers are people too. They’re not robots who are waiting by the phone to answer any question 24/7. They have lives outside of work, and they can’t be expected to be available at all times.
50/50 Plans that Work
A divorce can be a complex and emotional time for everyone involved, especially children. Dividing assets and determining responsibilities can be overwhelming, but figuring out how to divide time with your children can be one of the most challenging aspects of a divorce. That’s why 50/50 parenting plans have become increasingly popular in Illinois, offering divorcing couples the opportunity to create a schedule that works for both parties without the harsh foundation of being a weekend parent
Missouri now has a presumption of 50/50 parenting (but Illinois does not)
There has been a growing trend to give parents equal time with their children. Its not quite the law (yet) in Illinois, but if you agree with your soon-to-be-ex, equal parenting can be your reality.
The Importance of Flexibility in Parental Allocation
When parents divorce, one of the most important decisions they have to make is how to allocate parenting time with their children. In Illinois, the law presumes that it is in the best interests of children to have a close and continuing relationship with both parents. This means that the court will generally order a parenting plan that allows both parents to have significant time with their children. While the plan itself has specific times when each parent is with their child, long term, flexibility is necessary.
The Best Interest of the Child and the Importance of Cooperation
The best interest of the child is the most important factor that the court will consider when allocating parenting time