What is a Flat Fee Lawyer? A flat fee lawyer is a lawyer who charges a set fee for their services. This fee is usually based on the number of hours the lawyer anticipates spending on your case. For example, if the lawyer expects to spend 10 hours working on your divorce, the flat […]
The High Cost of Divorce: Emotional and Financial Impacts Divorce isn’t just a legal separation, it’s an emotional earthquake. Even amicable breakups bring sadness, stress, and uncertainty, especially when children are involved. You may face difficult custody arrangements, relocation, and the overwhelming need to start over. This emotional turmoil can damage your mental health. If […]
Retirement Division in Divorce: What You Need to Know When a marriage ends, couples must confront the difficult task of dividing their shared assets. One major consideration is often retirement savings. In many states, including Illinois, retirement accounts accumulated during the marriage are part of the “marital estate.” This means both spouses have a claim […]
Knowing your marriage is over is just the beginning. Starting the divorce process can feel daunting, but taking proactive steps now can set the stage for a smoother, less stressful experience. I am asked routinely by people on how to begin untangling their marriage. Here is my list of ten additional starting points to help […]
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 […]
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 […]