Recent Blog Posts
Chicago Family Law Cases on Hold Due to Coronavirus
The coronavirus pandemic continues to increase around the world, and various states, cities, and the federal government have taken steps to combat the spread. Schools, businesses, and government offices across the country are being temporarily shut down. If you are wondering if your Chicago or Cook County paternity, divorce, or other family law matter… Read More »
2020 Changes to Illinois Criminal History Expungement
A criminal conviction can follow you for years after you have paid your fines or served your time. Potential employers and landlords can look up your criminal history, affecting where you can live or work, and certain convictions can affect your professional licensing or immigration status. Thankfully, depending on the type of conviction, you… Read More »
Violating an Order of Protection in Illinois
An order of protection is a court order that restricts a target’s right to engage in certain behavior or be in certain locations. Typically, the order will prevent a target from contacting or being within a certain proximity to another person or that person’s home, work, or family members. Violating an order of protection… Read More »
Illinois Supreme Court Upholds Law Requiring Drivers to Take Sobriety Tests
Criminal defendants and suspects have rights protected by the federal and state constitutions. For example, the Fourth and Fourteenth Amendments to the United States Constitution protect citizens against unreasonable search and seizure of themselves and their property. Courts in different jurisdictions across the country have had different views as to how those protections apply… Read More »
What Can Your Illinois Prenup Include?
Prenuptial agreements (“prenups”) are no longer reserved for the rich and famous (to the extent they ever were). They are becoming more and more common among marrying couples across all demographics, and for good reason. They are an effective legal tool for protecting assets and managing expectations should unfortunate circumstances come to pass, and… Read More »
Helping Kids Adjust to a Divorce
Even when a divorce is the right call for a relationship, it can be a difficult process. Children of divorce, in particular, can have a tough time adjusting. Our clients often ask for advice on how to help their kids through the process. While every family is different, some steps are generally helpful for… Read More »
How Does Child Custody Work in an Illinois Same-Sex Divorce?
As of 2015, same-sex marriage has been legalized in every state around the country. With the influx of same-sex marriages in recent years comes the inevitable addition of same-sex divorces and attendant issues. The rules regarding custody for same-sex couples can be more complicated, as the circumstances typically involve alternate forms of parentage such… Read More »
Is “Bird Nest” Co-Parenting Right for My Kids After a Divorce?
Child custody can be one of the most contentious parts of a divorce proceeding. Decisions regarding child custody and child-rearing are often very emotionally-charged, and divorce can be a difficult transition for young children. It pays to be open to a variety of potential arrangements that best suit your family situation. Some Illinois parents… Read More »
Illinois Supreme Court Outlaws “De Facto” Life Sentences for Juvenile Offenders
The eighth amendment to the United States Constitution protects people against cruel and unusual punishment. Courts’ views on the Eighth Amendment have evolved over the years, leading to prohibitions on things like the death penalty or mandatory life without the possibility of parole for juvenile offenders. The Illinois Supreme Court recently issued a landmark… Read More »
Illinois to Decriminalize Cannabis, Expunge Convictions
On June 25, 2019, Illinois Governor Pritzker signed into law a bill that will legalize marijuana in Illinois. The bill will permit the licensed growth, sales, possession and consumption of cannabis for adults aged over 21 in the state. The law makes Illinois the 11th state to decriminalize marijuana for adults, although the Illinois… Read More »
