Family Law Lawyers Downers Grove
Family Law Lawyers Downers Grove
Family law is an important area of the law that addresses the legal concerns that families face. From divorce to post-divorce modifications, paternity, and beyond, family law matters are of primary concern for those who face them. If you have an issue related to family law, you need the professional legal counsel of an experienced family law lawyer in Downers Grove on your side.
Common Family Law Cases
No two family law cases are ever exactly alike, but there are several kinds of issues that are commonly addressed by family law, including:
- Parenting time
- Child support
- Modifications of parenting time and/or child support
- Spousal support (also known as alimony or spousal maintenance)
- Paternity
Parenting Time and Child Support
When children are involved, the State of Illinois always bases its decisions on their best interests, and this includes parenting time. While child support is calculated according to state guidelines, the court can order child support that varies from this calculation process if there is a compelling reason for doing so. Additionally, the need to modify existing parenting time and/or child support orders over the course of time is quite common.
Spousal Support
Spousal support or alimony represents payments that are intended to help balance any financial discrepancies between both spouses post-divorce. In other words, if divorce leaves one spouse without the financial means to fully support himself or herself and the other has the means to help, alimony may be ordered. Alimony is generally intended to serve as a steppingstone that helps the recipient gain the education and/or job skills that he or she needs to become more financially independent.Â
Paternity
The establishment of paternity can make a significant difference in the lives of children and both their parents. Unless the mother and father are married or are in a civil union when a child is born, paternity is not established – and the father’s name will not be included on the birth certificate. The options for establishing paternity include both parents completing and signing a Voluntary Acknowledgement of Paternity (VAP) or obtaining an administrative or judicial paternity order through Child Support Services or the court (respectively). There are a variety of important reasons for establishing paternity, including:
- It allows the father and child to forge a close familial bond.
- It helps to ensure that the child is supported financially by both parents.Â
- It ensures the child’s right to any inheritance flowing from the father.
- It can provide the child with benefits that may include insurance coverage through the father’s place of employment, military benefits, and/or social security benefits.
Turn to an Experienced Family Law Lawyer in Downers Grove for the Legal Guidance You Need
Cameron H. Goodman at Goodman Law Firm in Downers Grove is a seasoned family law lawyer with an impressive track record of successfully guiding cases like yours toward favorable outcomes. We’re here for you, too, so please don’t wait to contact us for more information today.
FAQs About Divorce in Illinois
What should I do if I have been served with divorce papers?
If you have received service of divorce papers, contact an experienced divorce attorney to review the documents, understand your rights, and plan your next steps. Time is critical in divorce proceedings, and having skilled legal counsel from the start can make all the difference.
How can I prepare for my initial consultation with a divorce attorney?
Bring documents such as financial records, prenuptial agreements, and a list of any questions you have. Be prepared to discuss your relevant goals and concerns openly and honestly. The more information you provide, the better we can assess your situation and develop a strategy that serves your best interests.
How are collaborative law, mediation, and negotiation different?
- Collaborative law is a structured process where both parties and their attorneys commit to resolving the divorce without going to court. It involves open communication and cooperation, with the goal of reaching a mutually beneficial agreement.
- In mediation, a neutral third-party mediator facilitates discussions to help divorcing parties reach a mutual agreement. Rather than making decisions, the mediator guides the negotiation process toward productive outcomes.
- Negotiation involves discussions between the parties directly or their attorneys to settle divorce terms. Unlike mediation, there is no neutral third party.
What should I expect during the divorce process?
The process typically involves filing for divorce, exchanging information, negotiating terms, and finalizing the agreement. If negotiations fail, courtroom litigation will become part of the process.
What happens if my spouse refuses to cooperate during the divorce?
If your spouse is uncooperative, the court may have to intervene to resolve disputes. At Goodman Law Firm, our attorney has experience in handling contentious cases and will advocate for your interests even in circumstances where spousal cooperation is limited.