Family Law

Family Law

In the United States, 90% of Americans marry by age 50. While many of these marriages last forever, many do not. In fact, nearly 50% of all marriages end in divorce. In the second, third, and subsequent marriages, the divorce rate is even higher.

When a marriage ends, it leads to multiple family law issues. Not only is there the divorce to iron out, but there are also issues regarding property division and alimony. If children are involved, child custody, child support, and visitation are also issues that must be handled.

While couples can choose to settle their divorce amicably and negotiate on the terms of their divorce, some divorces are contentious. They involve name-calling, yelling, and refusal to negotiate. This causes the divorce to drag on for many months and even years. It also causes the cost of the divorce to increase, due to lawyer’s fees and court costs.

If you are an Illinois resident who is considering ending a marriage, you need someone on your side who understands your rights. Do not try to divorce on your own. Contact Forst Law Offices in Orland Hills today, our dedicated family law attorney is ready to help you.

Types of Family Law Cases

The most common type of family law case is divorce. Divorce is a legal action that occurs when both parties decide to end their marriage. The couple can also ask for a separation. In a separation, the parties decide on property division and child custody matters just like they would in a divorce. However, the parties are not legally divorced. Separations tend to occur for religious reasons. An annulment is also an option, but the courts do not grant these regularly.

When minor children are involved, the couple can decide on child custody and a visitation schedule. If the parents can not come to an agreement, the court will decide. When deciding on child custody issues, the judges look at the best interests of the child. They will aim for joint custody, although they will look at factors that could make a person an unfit parent, such as allegations of abuse or neglect, criminal history, and substance abuse. If the child is older, they will also take his or her preferences into consideration. If the parents were unmarried at the time of the child’s birth, then paternity issues may be at play. The alleged father can ask the court to determine paternity if there is any issue, especially since he will likely be forced to pay child support.

Get Help From an Illinois Family Law Attorney Today

If you are going through a divorce or are dealing with child custody, child support, or visitation issues, you need someone who knows the law inside and out. Family law attorney Richard J. Forst from Forst Law Offices has more than two decades of experience helping Illinois residents handle their family law issues in a cost-efficient manner. He can provide legal solutions that will meet your needs. To schedule a free consultation, call his Orland Hills office at 708-949-6440 or fill out the online form.

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