Although children often turn 18 before freshman year of college, divorced parents may still be ordered to contribute to college expenses. Sometimes, though, other family members, like grandparents, will set aside money to contribute to their grandchildren’s post-secondary education.
Read MoreIn Illinois, the Department of Child and Family Services (“DCFS”) handles cases regarding abuse and neglect of minor children. When someone reports suspected abuse and neglect to DCFS, the department’s first step will be to conduct an investigation.
Read MoreDivorce can be a lengthy process that can take months or even years to finalize. Unfortunately, some people have to deal with the harsh reality of having their spouse die during the pendency of the divorce proceedings, but before their divorce is finalized.
Read MoreIn cases where parents live in two separate households, choosing the right school for the child often requires collaboration—or court intervention. If contested, how do you determine which school or district is in the best interest of your child?
Read MoreWhat happens if the non-residential parent wants to move? They actually do not have to seek permission, but it is likely a basis to modify the parenting time schedule. This scenario is commonly referred to as reverse relocation.
Read MoreTraditionally, in-person legal proceedings were the standard before the COVID-19 pandemic. However, following the COVID-19 pandemic, virtual court proceedings have remained available through video communication platforms and have become increasingly common.
Read MoreDuring a family law case, especially when getting closer to a trial, depositions are a valuable discovery tool that can be utilized. The main purpose of a deposition is to take testimony from a witness under oath, and the answers can be used as evidence in court.
Read MoreCoparenting after a divorce or separation may be challenging, and our role is to provide tools to assist in minimizing the conflict. The appointment of a parenting coordinator, pursuant to Illinois Supreme Court Rule 909, is a highly effective tool for coparenting with high-conflict families.
Read MoreWhen a Guardian ad Litem ("GAL") is appointed on a case, they must interact with many individuals to conduct a thorough investigation. This can involve having difficult conversations with individuals who are experiencing significant emotional distress, conflict, or just general challenges.
Read MoreSerious illnesses or accidents are often sudden and may occur at any moment. In the event you are incapacitated or otherwise can't make decisions regarding your health, it is important that you have someone who can speak on your behalf.
Read MoreCivility is deeply rooted in the ethical practice of law. In domestic relations proceedings, whether it be a divorce or parentage case, emotions can run high, which can create animosity and result in untoward behavior.
Read MoreA collaborative divorce process is a voluntary way of resolving divorce disputes outside of a litigation and court setting. Both parties and their respective attorneys work together in a cooperative team-like setting to reach a mutually agreeable settlement – all before even filing a divorce case.
Read MoreThere is a common misconception with the term legal separation. People often think it is a solution to a couples’ marital issues, providing the space and time to determine whether they want to get a divorce. However, legal separation and physical separation are two very different concepts.
Read MoreThe Law Office of Erin M. Wilson LLC knows and understands that family is the most important aspect of your life. Our office is here to give clients our full attention, responsiveness, availability, and cost-effectiveness.
Read MoreTherapy is a powerful tool to help individuals navigate the emotional, logistical, and relational challenges that come with divorce. When going through a divorce, change is inevitable, and therapy is a great way to manage your mental health during a major life transition and stressful process.
Read MoreOftentimes, during a divorce, it can be challenging to divide marital property, especially the marital home. Upon conflict, there are usually frequent questions about who will keep the marital residence when the divorce is finalized. However, one side may move to force a sale of the home while the divorce is still pending.
Read MoreAn order of protection (“OP”), also known as a restraining order, is a court-entered order to protect individuals or high-risk adults that have been abused, neglected, or exploited by a family or household member. 750 ILCS 60/214(a).
Read MoreChild support is usually paid through a child’s emancipation, which will generally be the later of a child turning 18 or graduating high school. However, a court may award financial support for a child with disabilities after what is a traditional emancipation.
Read MoreWhen it comes to the division of marital property, Illinois is an equitable distribution state. This means that any property acquired during the marriage, including retirement funds, is considered marital property and is subject to equitable distribution between spouses.
Read MoreHomeschool requirements vary from state to state. Illinois has a liberal homeschooling standard with little accountability. These minimal regulations on homeschooling offer a lot of flexibility for guardians to do what they choose.
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