The divorce process can be emotionally taxing and complex if you are considering it. A competent divorce attorney in Chicago will provide you with guidance throughout the process and safeguard your rights. Property division, child custody, visitation, spousal support, and other matters may be resolved during a divorce. It is crucial to retain an attorney who is well-versed in Illinois law, as divorce laws differ from state to state. When conducting a search for an attorney, it is crucial to evaluate the attorney’s track record and experience, as well as client testimonials and reviews.
WARD FAMILY LAW, LLC, is a divorce and family law firm that serves Cook County, Illinois, and its neighboring jurisdictions. A diverse array of legal experience, such as professional lecturing, publishing, negotiation, courtroom experience, and law school classroom instruction, is represented by the firm’s team of attorneys. The lawyers at the firm are able to offer comprehensive representation for their clients’ requirements and concerns as a result of their diverse background.
The organization offers services in the following areas: divorce, domestic violence, child custody, and adoption. Additionally, it provides consultations to assist couples in negotiating a mutual accord regarding their separation. The firm assists couples in resolving their disputes through mediation or arbitration, and it litigates cases when necessary. The company has been in operation for over 50 years and provides services to consumers in the Chicago metropolitan area.
When selecting a Chicago Family Law Attorney, it is important to evaluate the scope of their practice and the specific areas of family law in which they specialize. Additionally, it is advisable to verify an attorney’s record with the Illinois State Bar. If the attorney has any significant violations, it may be a warning sign that you should not hire them. Nevertheless, minor infractions should not disqualify an attorney from consideration.
It is crucial to prepare yourself emotionally and financially prior to commencing your search for a Chicago Divorce Attorney. Compile an inventory of your assets, liabilities, and joint financial accounts with your spouse. Then, duplicate all critical documents and store them in a secure location that is inaccessible to your spouse. Tax returns, bank statements, investment account information, salaries, and benefit or retirement program information are the most critical financial documents to have on hand.
The court will distribute the responsibility for all debts and assets that you and your spouse have acquired during the marriage during the divorce procedure. This is referred to as “equitable distribution.” The court will consider the prospective financial requirements of both parties, the length of the marriage, and the contributions of each spouse to the property.
During the divorce procedure, a judge will determine whether spousal support (alimony) is appropriate. Previously, judges were granted a wide range of discretion in determining spousal support awards; however, Illinois has adopted new guidelines for calculating maintenance obligations. These regulations emphasize the capacity of both parents to support their children, and they consider the income of each spouse and the standard of living that would have prevailed in the marriage had it been maintained.