Recent Blog Posts
What is the Self-Defense Law in IL?
Most people understand that they are entitled to use self-defense to protect themselves and their loved ones if they are attacked. If you hurt someone while defending yourself, you are safe from prosecution for assault and other charges. But what actually counts as self-defense from a legal perspective? When are you protected from prosecution,… Read More »
What Are the Criteria for a Fit and Unfit Parent in Illinois?
Courts give parents wide latitude in deciding how to raise their children. There are circumstances, however, under which the courts may strip a parent of their parental rights. These criteria may be used to give one parent sole custody in a custody dispute or to remove a child from the care of both parents… Read More »
Common-Law Marriage in IL
“Common law marriage” is a term many people have heard, but few actually know what it entails. Clients often wonder how common-law marriages occur, whether common law marriage is something that can come about unintentionally, and if it has the same legal effect as a traditional marriage. Continue reading to learn about common law… Read More »
How to Fight Criminal Damage to Property Charges
Criminal Damage to Property is considered a very serious crime in Illinois. The punishment for Criminal Damage to Property varies depending on the specifics of the crime charged and facts proven. Penalties range from a misdemeanor and jail time to a serious felony conviction with a long-term prison sentence. If you have been arrested… Read More »
When Do Child Support Payments End? What Are Exceptions?
Parents have a legal obligation to support their children. When couples divorce, or when an unmarried parent petitions the court, the court will decide upon both child custody and child support obligations. Illinois courts follow certain general rules in setting the limits of child support, but there are exceptions. Read on to learn about… Read More »
What Are the Statutes of Limitation for Theft in IL?
Nearly every legal claim, whether civil or criminal, has a time limit. If a plaintiff or prosecutor waits too long to charge a defendant or file a civil claim, they lose the right to do so. The time limit for bringing a legal claim is known as a “statute of limitations.” Statutes of limitations… Read More »
What is Pro Se Divorce?
People hear a lot of legal phrases thrown around in connection with divorce–collaborative divorce, mediation, no-fault, etc.—but they are not sure what these terms actually mean, or what they involve. People may have heard the phrase “pro se,” or may otherwise be interested in the concept of self-representation. Below, we discuss what it truly… Read More »
Best Tips and Strategies for Fighting Burglary in IL
Residential burglary is a Class 1 felony under Illinois law. The punishment for a Class 1 felony is four to 15 years in prison and up to $25,000 in fines. If you are facing residential burglary charges, it is vital to get a zealous and experienced Chicago criminal defense lawyer in your corner as… Read More »
What Are the Grounds for Divorce in Illinois?
Illinois, like most states, allows for some form of “no-fault” divorce (typically called “irreconcilable differences”). Different states are more distinct in terms of whether other “fault” grounds for divorce are still on the books, as well as how no-fault divorce is precisely defined. In 2016, Illinois enacted a new law, firmly taking a position… Read More »
What Are the Child Custody Laws in Illinois?
Determining child custody is often the most heated part of a divorce proceeding. Illinois family law establishes both the types of custody and custody arrangements available to parents, as well as providing a guideline for how family courts should decide upon custody in a divorce or other custody dispute. Read on to learn about… Read More »
