A Divorce Lawyer Can Help You Understand Your Rights and Achieve a Fair Outcome
If you are separating from your spouse, a good Divorce Lawyer is essential to guide you through the complex legal proceedings. A divorce is a major life event that can have significant implications for your future, especially if you have children. The guidance of an experienced attorney can help you understand your rights and achieve a fair outcome.
The first step in divorce is filing a petition with the county where either you or your spouse lives. Illinois does not require that a couple live in the state for a specific period before a divorce can be filed. Your Chicago divorce lawyer will help you prepare and file the necessary paperwork and start the process of dissolving your marriage.
When a divorce petition is filed, a court will review the evidence and determine if grounds for dissolution exist. Grounds could include irreconcilable differences, incompatibility, and other similar factors. If a judge determines that the marriage cannot be saved, they will enter a judgment that dissolves the bonds of marriage.
Once the judge has entered a divorce judgment, the next steps are determining issues like property division and child custody. The judge will look at the assets that were acquired during the marriage and divide them fairly between the two spouses. This includes both marital and non-marital assets. Non-marital assets may include property acquired by one party prior to the marriage, property that was gifted or inherited by a party during the marriage, and property included in a prenuptial agreement.
If you have children, the judge will need to address what was traditionally known as “child custody.” This involves decision-making (formerly called legal custody) and parenting time (formerly referred to as physical custody). Your lawyer will advise you on how the court will decide these issues and work to ensure that your rights are protected.
Most divorce cases are settled through negotiation or mediation, and your Chicago divorce lawyer will work diligently to secure a settlement that protects your interests. However, if a settlement isn’t possible, your attorney will represent you in court and argue on your behalf to obtain a fair outcome.
The Law Offices of Philip Brigham, LLC, handles a variety of family and divorce matters in the Chicago area. Brigham has experience in contested and uncontested divorces, child support, spousal support, and more. He has extensive law school classroom teaching, professional lecturing, publishing, negotiation, and courtroom experience, and is a certified family law mediator.
Davis and Associates limits their practice to high net worth individuals with assets of at least $1 million and a combined family income of $250,000. Their clients are high-achieving, successful professionals who want to preserve their wealth and quality of life. They have extensive knowledge of the complexities of high asset divorces and can provide the advice you need to achieve your goals. They can also assist with post-decree issues that may arise, such as modifying or terminating support. To find a good Divorce Lawyer, start by researching reputable firms and individual attorneys skilled in family law. Then, schedule initial consultations with a few attorneys to meet with them and discuss your case.