Before we dive into this quick guide’s main topic, give yourself permission to imagine the following scenario: you have been married for over a decade to a spouse who is not giving you the intimacy you ask for.
Even though your marriage appears quite lovely, from the outside, you are being denied the intimacy you desperately crave. On top of that, your spouse has made it clear they do not want to reciprocate your needs.
You know that things are never going to change, and, as such, you’ve come to a decision: it’s time to divorce your spouse.
Going over three of the major issues you must deal with before getting a divorce and speaking with a Chicago divorce lawyer will make it easier for you to obtain the divorce you are seeking.
Issue 01: Property Division
The term “marital property” refers to all of the property you and your spouse have acquired throughout your marriage.
A good example of marital property is when you and your spouse buy a house after getting married. And, this house grows in value, meaning that the two of you have a rightful claim to this house, as well as its value.
The state of Illinois practices “equitable distribution.” This means that you will receive a fair share of the marital property and not necessarily an equal share.
By working with an attorney, you can outline your terms. Doing so and demonstrating the value you brought to the marriage will allow you to obtain a better share of the marital property you are entitled to.
Issue 02: Child Custody
If you have children, those children will, in most cases, need to spend some time with you and, then, some time with your other spouse.
The exact custody schedules you and your spouse will need to abide by is dependent on the terms and conditions you both agree to.
If you work with an attorney who knows how to navigate child custody, it will be much easier for you to obtain a favorable child custody arrangement.
Issue 03: Child Support
Child support is necessary when one parent has primary custody of a child. This could be you, and if it is, you may be entitled to some form of child support.
To obtain a favorable child support arrangement, you can go over your child’s expenses, along with their needs, with an attorney. And, if possible, you can work with your spouse, as well.
Doing the above will make it considerably easier for you to obtain the ideal child support arrangement. This will help you raise your children and sustain your current lifestyle.
Issue 04: Maintenance
In the state of Illinois, the term “maintenance” refers to spousal support. Or, as it is also known, alimony.
Three significant factors determine maintenance: your financial circumstances, your spouse’s economic circumstances, and the length of your marriage.
Just as an example, if you haven’t worked in over a decade and have, instead, been raising your children, your attorney can make a good case for you to receive a very favorable maintenance arrangement.
If you obtain a favorable maintenance arrangement, you can continue to enjoy the lifestyle you have been accustomed to without being bound to a marriage that is no longer working for you.
Get Qualified Legal Help Today
If you would like to obtain a divorce in Illinois, Glasgow & Olsson is uniquely qualified to assist you.
When you need an attorney, experience matters.
Speak with one of the Chicago divorce attorneys at Glasgow & Olsson today to obtain the divorce you need.