This is the first post in a series which will discuss the process of litigating a divorce in Peoria, Illinois. I am writing on this topic due to the fact that many individuals do not know how to proceed when it is time to bring their marriage to an end. This is understandable. It is important, however, to take immediate steps to protect your interests. Failing to do so can have long-term consequences on your financial well-being as well as the relationship between yourself and your children. The goal of my coming articles is to provide information which will help people to fully understand their options. It is also my goal to provide information which will assist with the selection of a family law attorney. If you or a loved one are in need of assistance then contact my office today to speak with a lawyer.
I will be addressing several topics over my coming articles. The issues which I will cover include:
- The process of beginning an Illinois divorce
- How Illinois divides marital property and debt
- The need for discovery when it comes to financial issues
- How Illinois courts decide the issue of alimony or spousal support
- Taking a case to trial
These are important topics to address. First, many are worried that their life will be thrown into upheaval once the case begins. Fortunately, Illinois allows for the granting of “temporary relief” in order to ensure that the parties have a sense of structure while the case moves forward. Second, Illinois is not a “community property” state. This means that property and debts will not necessarily be split “down the middle.” Third, discovery is crucial to gaining evidence which shows interests you may have, or not have, in assets and debts. Fourth, there are few issues which cause as much disagreement between spouses as does alimony. Finally, knowing what to expect from the trial process can help to ensure that things go smoothly.
If you are going through the end of a marriage then it is important that you speak with an attorney as soon as possible. The decisions that you make today can have a dramatic impact on your financial future. As a Peoria divorce lawyer, I am able to assist with such matters. Contact my office today to schedule an initial consultation. I also service the cities of Bloomington, Eureka, Galesburg, Morton, Normal, Pekin, Springfield, and Washington. I also serve the counties of Fulton, Knox, LaSalle, Marshall, Mason, McLean, Putnam, Rock Island, Schuyler, Stark, Tazewell, and Woodford.