When parents divorce or separate in Illinois, deciding where the child will live can be a major source of conflict. But what role do children’s wishes play in these decisions? The answer is not what you think. Kids do not decide where they live, even if they are 13 (or 17). The Judge’s Decision, Not […]
Divorce is an emotionally turbulent time, filled with raw feelings, complex decisions, and often contentious interactions with your soon-to-be-ex-spouse. In the midst of this turmoil, every text message, email, or phone call can feel like a minefield, triggering a sense of urgency to respond immediately. This urge to react falls under a concept called ‘ […]
Divorce is rarely easy. It’s a complex journey filled with emotional turmoil and uncertainty. Adding legal complexities to the mix can make the process feel even more daunting. At Flat Fee Divorce Solutions, I recognize these challenges and have chosen to focus my practice exclusively on uncontested divorces, which also includes negotiated and collaborative divorces. […]
Divorce, a storm of emotions that can leave even the strongest couples battered and bruised. But amidst the wreckage, a beacon of hope emerges – parallel parenting. For those entangled in the web of high conflict, this model offers a lifeline, a path towards stability and minimized harm for your most precious cargo: your children. […]
In Illinois, crafting a parenting time allocation plan that prioritizes the best interests of your child is key. The focus is on the child’s well-being, not on the wishes or rights of either parent. There are various 50/50 plans to choose from, and finding one that suits your family’s unique needs is essential. Popular 50/50 […]
The tide is turning in family courts across the United States. Traditionally, sole custody arrangements favored mothers, often leaving fathers with limited time with their children. But a growing body of research shows that children benefit from equal time with both parents, prompting states to consider a 50/50 parenting time presumption. Missouri Leads the Way […]
When parents are creating a parenting plan, flexibility can be just as important as the specific schedule itself. In fact, Illinois courts recognize that life is unpredictable, and children’s needs change over time. A rigid plan might seem secure at first, but it can lead to frustration and conflict down the road. Flexibility in Parental […]
When parents can’t agree on a parenting plan in Illinois, the Court steps in. They’ll consider 17 factors to determine what’s in the child’s best interests. Of those many factors, there is a special emphasis on the importance of cooperation between parents. Why Cooperation Matters Studies show that parents who cooperate raise children with […]
In the past, the typical parenting plan in Illinois often favored a traditional family structure.. Mothers were often assumed to be the primary caregivers, while fathers had limited visitation rights. This is the so-called “standard visitation plan”. But times have changed, and so have the courts’ views on parenting. Gone are the days of […]
If you’re a stepparent going through a divorce in Illinois, you might be wondering about your rights as a step-parent post-divorce to maintain a relationship with your stepchildren. Unfortunately, the legal landscape can be a bit complicated. Troxel v. Granville: A Landmark Case In the landmark case Troxel v. Granville, the U.S. Supreme Court […]
