I read an article the other day indicating that children who come from divorced homes ingest more sugary drinks than children who come from intact families. It led me to wonder how many other habits leading to potentially lifelong consequences are impacted by the break-up of a family. It also led me to wonder about…
We are more than pleased to announce that Mark Brent has been chosen for membership in the National Association of Distinguished Counsel. The recognition of Mark Brent for his dedicated service is an honor of the highest magnitude and follows from a professional life devoted to the advocacy of people often at the most vulnerable positions in…
Two months have passed since the new maintenance law took effect In Illinois on January 1, 2015, and Family Law attorneys are beginning to see how Courts are applying the new maintenance guidelines. What is clear is that the guidelines are here to stay and are being implemented throughout the State. Unfortunately, many questions and…
In my high school psychology class, my history teacher came and spoke to us one day about his disabled son. He read to us a short story in which he compared having a disabled child to a trip to Europe. The story began with a couple planning to go to Italy to tour all of…
Divorce mediation is a very cost effective, efficient way of handling a divorce. Many people would be better served by mediation than running into court and running up the cost of ending the marriage. Mediation can be chosen by the parties, though both parties must agree to it; and in some circumstances, mediation is a requirement. If…
The impact of new Illinois maintenance guidelines will be felt for cases divorce cases filed on or after January 1, 2015. Both payors and recipients of maintenance have long complained in Illinois about the lack of standards by which maintenance is established and the resulting substantial differences in maintenance awards from case to case and court to…
Today marks the beginning of National Pro Bono Week. “Pro bono publico” means for the public good and is usually shortened to “pro bono” (Wikipedia), which is often interpreted to mean “for free”. The term, “pro bono” has specific application to attorneys, and for good reason. While many people volunteer their time for charitable causes,…
As October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month, we continue our focus on the subject of domestic violence with a look at the four remedies against domestic violence available under Illinois law. Victims of domestic violence need the support of friends, family, churches and the community, but they also have legal remedies available to use against domestic violence.…
“Cases of Hope Solo, Ray Rice spotlight domestic violence stereotypes” reads the headline. “Domestic Violence and Celebrities -It Affects All of Us” reads another headline. Domestic violence is not just a problem in the NFL or for high profile celebrities. The problem of domestic violence problem is societal. If you are a victim of domestic…
Roughly half of all marriages end in divorce. If divorce seems like a real possibility for your marriage, for whatever reason, do some research and ready yourself by learning what to expect. Find an attorney who is experienced and is a “good fit” for you. In the meantime, here are ten quick tips about divorce in…