Posts By: MICHAEL C CRAVEN

Legalizing Marijuana and My Child Custody Case

Illinois first allowed marijuana for medical reasons through legislation enacted in 2013 and followed up this effort by legalizing marijuana for recreational use in May 2019. Though the most recent statute doesn’t become effective until January 2020, Crain’s Chicago Business has already predicted that revenue from recreational-use marijuana is expected to top $1.6 billion in the state.   Another issue regarding legal marijuana may come as a shock to anyone going through child custody pr...   Read more ...  

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How to Spot the Narcissist Holding up Your Case

  Published in the Thursday November 7, 2019 edition of the Chicago Daily Law Bulletin   “Just who do you think you are?”   If you find yourself constantly asking that question while handling a case or legal matter — you might be interacting with a narcissist, a personality type that craves and demands special treatment.   In our legal world, a narcissist can make our lives difficult. The problem person can be your client, another party or even opposing counsel. To get...   Read more ...  

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Cohabitation Agreements in Illinois

The days are long gone that cohabitation without marriage was a scandalous, immoral proposition. Data compiled by the U.S. Census Bureau reveals that more heterosexual and same-sex couples choose to enjoy unmarried relationships than ever before, with 13 and 30 percent increases in the respective groups from 2009-10. However, even as cohabitation becomes more mainstream, these relationships aren’t immune to conflict. As such, it’s just as important to plan for a break-up as it is for engaged...   Read more ...  

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How a Premarital Agreement Can Positively Impact Your Marriage

It may not be the most romantic topic of conversation, but having a realistic, honest conversation about premarital agreements may be the best decision you make. While prenups have traditionally been viewed unfavorably by soon-to-be spouses who would never even consider getting a divorce, there are multiple benefits that can be achieved through the use of a prenup. It’s essential to comply with legal requirements and understand the effect of the document, which is why you should discuss your c...   Read more ...  

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Why Proving Paternity Is Important

Establishing paternity means making someone the legal father of a child, along with all the responsibilities and privileges that come with that status. It is often necessary to do when children are born outside of official marriages. Completing the process successfully grants children and parents rights equal to those of married families. Please do not use anything in this article as legal advice. Also, please know that you may have already taken the first step by filling out some forms at the h...   Read more ...  

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What To Consider When Getting a Divorce Near Retirement Age

Getting a divorce close to retirement is often significantly different from getting one when you have your whole career ahead of you. You will probably have to deal with some unique situations, so please do not use this article as legal advice. You should involve an attorney and probably also an accountant or financial planner, when making these decisions.   That said, there is some good news: Divorcing near retirement often means less complexity surrounding your children. However, there is...   Read more ...  

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