Is it all marital property?
In Illinois, once you say “I do,” most of the things you acquire become marital property – even your socks. This means that in a divorce, it’s all subject to division. Yes, even that vintage t-shirt collection or your prized fishing gear. Why Most Things Become Marital Property It boils down to this: marriage is […]
Is there a difference between a simple divorce and no contested or uncontested one?
The short answer is no. In Illinois, “simple” and “uncontested” divorces are essentially the same thing. Let’s break down what that means and how it might apply to your situation. What’s Changed in Illinois Divorce Law When I first started practicing law, there were many reasons (or “grounds”) for divorce in Illinois. Today, there’s […]
HIPAA and non-medical businesses
The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) is frequently misunderstood, especially when it comes to vaccine status. Let’s set the record straight and clarify what HIPAA does and doesn’t cover. What HIPAA Actually Does HIPAA, enacted in 1996, serves several purposes: Protects health insurance coverage: It allows employees to continue coverage after leaving a […]
What is an amicable divorce?
When you think of celebrity divorces, images of bitter court battles and tabloid headlines might come to mind. But the truth is, even the wealthiest individuals often choose to settle their divorces amicably, out of court. Why? Because they understand the staggering financial and emotional toll that litigation can take. The Billion-Dollar Divorces: Lessons Learned […]
Divorce attorneys are too jaded to be judgy
If you’re considering divorce, you might be hesitant to open up about the details. Rest assured, after nearly two decades and countless clients, I’ve pretty much heard it all. Like most, attorneys, I am too jaded to be judgy. Your Secrets Are Safe with Me From every corner of the Metro East, I help people […]
Law Cats and Cats practicing law
Remember that viral video of the lawyer who appeared in court as a cat? It was hilarious, but it also highlighted a serious issue: many attorneys struggle to adapt to new technology. Here is the video https://www.nbcnews.com/news/us-news/i-m-not-cat-video-shows-lawyer-can-t-turn-n1257168 The “LawCat” Advantage Luckily, I’m not one of those attorneys. My trusty feline assistant, LawCat (the CatBot, […]
Divorcing in 2021 might affect your taxes next year
Taxes… even the word can make people shudder. Let’s face it, the tax code is confusing, especially when you throw divorce into the mix. I’m not a tax expert, but as an Illinois divorce attorney, I can help you navigate some of the tax issues that often arise during a separation. Tax Filing Status: Married […]
I am now offering negotiated, non-litigated divorces
The new year is off to a unique start, but one thing remains the same: I’m here to help families navigate divorce in Illinois. While the pandemic has thrown a few curveballs, courts have adapted with virtual hearings and streamlined processes for uncontested cases. One of the most common questions I get is, “How much […]
What is the difference between online divorce papers and a lawyer doing them for me?
We all have tasks we’d rather leave to the professionals. Maybe you don’t change your own oil, re-roof your house, or attempt a DIY haircut (especially after that quarantine disaster). You might know how to do those things, but you recognize the risks of getting it wrong. So, why would you take a DIY approach […]
Divorces are divorces, or are they?
Divorce law in Illinois might seem uniform on the surface, but the reality is far more nuanced. Each county has its own unique procedures, rules, and even legal jargon. What works in Cook County might get you laughed out of court in Madison County! A required form from St. Clair County filed in a Sangamon […]