Money transferred between two phones Determining the amount and duration of spousal maintenance in Illinois is based on the income of each spouse and the length of the marriage. Spousal maintenance, also known as spousal support or alimony, refers to ongoing payments to an ex-spouse to help maintain the quality of life once enjoyed during the marriage. Determining Whether Maintenance Is Appropriate Spousal maintenance is not mandatory in Illinois. While maintenance is often awarded when … [Read more...]

A couple is tearing a dollar bill Injury settlements are generally classified as marital property when people divorce in Illinois, but there are exceptions. Although judges consistently rule that awards for injuries acquired during the marriage should be equitably divided, property interest begins on the date of the accident, not when the settlement check is received. Settlements may be determined to be non-marital property when people were hurt before they became married. How Marital … [Read more...]

A couple is quarreling at kitchen, their child is staying in front of them with ears closed Staying together “for the kids” carries many risks for couples and their children. This strategy often backfires, harming kids more than it helps them. Couples who are struggling in their marriages need to understand the risks of remaining married so they can make the best decision for their children. 1. Couples Teach Their Children Marriage Is About Separateness Children learn about … [Read more...]

White privacy word stands on the computer keyboard When one of the six million I-Pass users in Illinois faces divorce, their private and personal information is put at risk. Unfortunately, the transponders that track the movement of vehicles and conveniently take out the toll money when drivers drive on toll roads also record personal information, and that information is readily available to anyone who has a warrant, court order, or subpoena. This includes an ex-spouse in a divorce, raising … [Read more...]

A tearing Divorce paper with two marriage rings The way gifts are treated in an Illinois divorce depends on how they are classified, whether they meet the definition of "gift" under state law, and whether the assets were co-mingled with marital property. Gifts that are determined to be marital property are divided equitably. Assets that are non-marital property stay with the owner. Understanding what Illinois state law considers a gift will help divorcing spouses know what to expect. What … [Read more...]