The Law Office of Erin M. Wilson LLC strives for an amicable settlement when resolving clients' family law cases, yet sometimes settlement is not possible, and trial becomes necessary. Preparing for trial can be a long process, so it is important that you, as a client, know what to expect leading up to trial.
Read MoreIllinois law recognizes that children have a right to an education, and this includes post-secondary education. This means that both parents may be required to contribute to their child’s college expenses, even if the child is over the age of 18 and no longer a minor.
Read MoreUnder Cook County Local Court Rule 13.3.1, in any divorce proceedings and in any other proceedings where maintenance, attorney fees, child support or child expenses, including college expenses, are at issue, a financial affidavit must be completed by both parties. A financial affidavit is a snapshot of your current expenses, income, property, and debts, in that moment when you are filling it out.
Read MoreOccasionally, one or both spouses will have obtained professional degrees or licenses either before or during the marriage. It is important to understand what impact those professional degrees, and any loans associated with them, have on the divorce.
Read MoreWhen a case is filed in the Domestic Relations Division, a judge is automatically assigned to the case. In Illinois, parties in civil cases have the right to request a substitution of judge under certain circumstances. There are two specific types of ways that a judge can be substituted from a case.
Read MoreThe rise of social media and virtual communication inevitably gives people a new way to stalk or harass. Sometimes persistent contact online can be an issue before, during, or after a romantic or familial relationship. If your ex-partner continually contacts you and makes you feel unsafe, scared, or helpless, there are multiple precautions you can take to ensure your safety.
Read MoreAlthough 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.
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