Standby Guardian of a Minor Child under the Illinois Probate Act
If you have children, you have undoubtedly begun to realize how unpredictable life can be. From simple, day-to-day events, to major, sometimes catastrophic occurrences, there is just no way to plan for every possible eventuality. As a measure of security, some parents, however, take a more proactive approach, in consideration that they may not always be able to properly care for their children. This couldContinue reading
New Law Ends At-Fault Divorce and Reduces Separation Periods
A few weeks ago, a post on this blog discussed a newly signed law that promises to bring sweeping changes to the application of family law provisions in the state of Illinois. In addition to the major updates regarding parental relocation and child removal, as covered in that post, the new law—originally introduced as Senate Bill 57—also revamps the existing statutes related to divorce. Set to take effectContinue reading
Noted Author’s Case Brings Attention to Problem of Elder Abuse
Earlier this year, the literary world was abuzz with the news that, after more than a half century, author Harper Lee was set to release her second book. Unfortunately, however, public excitement was tempered by rumors and allegations of elder abuse against the aging writer by those who stood to profit from the book’s release. Exciting Announcement According to reports, the manuscript for Go Set a Watchman was writtenContinue reading
Defending a Dissipation Claim in Divorce
There are plenty of challenging aspects to any divorce situation. In addition to the unquestionably difficult emotional turbulence, most couples must also deal with a number of practical considerations as well, including arrangements regarding children, spousal support, and the division of assets and property. While each process, of course, includes its own unique intricacies, the dividing of assets and property can, in many cases, set the toneContinue reading
Studies Suggest Increased Risk of Suicide in Divorce Situations
It is well known by most people, whether through personal experience or a loved one, that divorce can often be the most trying time in your life. Effecting you socially, economically, and, more important, emotionally, these issues can weigh heavily on you, leading to severe and extremely dangerous psychological distress with consequences that can be deadly. The stress and emotional turbulence that divorce brings can prove toContinue reading
Forensic Accountants and the Divorce Process
In today’s media-driven society, the word “forensic” probably brings to mind episodes of CSI: Crime Scene Investigation or mini-documentaries like The FBI Files. Of course, forensic investigations certainly include the white-coated technicians equipped with blacklights, microscopes, and DNA-analyzing technology, but forensic science encompasses much more than crime scenes and lab work. Forensic scientists are trained to gather, analyze, and categorize pieces of evidence or information related to theContinue reading
Be Wary of Nursing Home Financial Responsibility Contracts
As you look to provide care for an aging parent or other loved one, there are many factors to consider. Should your parent remain at home? Does he or she require a full-time caregiver? Would a nursing facility or senior living center be a better option? Is there one nearby that you can trust? Of course, beyond the personal or health care questions, there isContinue reading
Understanding Intestate Succession
As many Americans begin to approach retirement age and beyond, estate planning starts to become more evidently important. If you are like most people, you have worked hard for the assets and property that you have accumulated and you would like to know that it will be properly allocated and cared for upon your death. It may be easy to simply assume that there mustContinue reading
Coming Changes to Child Removal and Parental Relocation Laws
As part of a bill that will overhaul a large number of family law provisions in Illinois, there are changes coming in regard to a custodial parent’s ability to move with his or her child. Many around the state are viewing the legislation as significant family law reform, and have lauded its aim to address evolving social ideals. Having already passed the Illinois House and Senate,Continue reading
Consider Eliminating Debt Prior to Divorce
If you are considering a divorce, you probably realize that your life is about to get fairly complicated, at least for a little while. You and your spouse will need to work out a large number of considerations, which, depending on your ability to work together—or lack thereof—may lead to stressful negotiations. For many couples, dividing the marital estate can be among the most challenging of allContinue reading