Posts By: MICHAEL C CRAVEN

Changing law changes lives

Changing law changes lives Discourse on Divorce As featured in the November 14, 2018 edition of the Chicago Daily Law Bulletin By Michael C. Craven   In this column, I want to reflect on how the law has changed the world, and in particular, family law in Illinois.   There aren’t many occupations in the world that have the ability to change so many peoples’ lives, but one that does is law. As someone who has spent more than 30 years practicing law, I am constantly amazed and astound...   Read more ...  

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Asset Division in a Divorce

Divorce lawyers often focus a lot of attention on how divorce affects parental responsibilities. Parenting plans are one of the most important and contentious parts of divorce. However, splitting up assets is a close second. Equitable Distribution States handle divorces differently. Some states divide the assets 50/50 no matter what. This means that it does not matter what the cause for divorce was, the assets are equally divided. Illinois is an “equitable distribution” state, meaning the Co...   Read more ...  

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Co-Parenting During the Holidays: Religious Beliefs & Parenting Time

Divorce is never easy, but the holidays have a way of making it even harder. Especially when you are navigating religious waters while also trying to co-parent. It’s important to remember that the holiday season is supposed to be a time for togetherness. It’s when memories are created, so instead of dreading the upcoming holiday season, here are a few tips for working together to co-parent effectively. Make a game plan ahead of time Planning in advance who your children will spend the holi...   Read more ...  

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Parent’s Rights in an Adoption Decision

Whenever the question of adoption arises, the law must examine the rights of both biological parents. There are multiple situations in which an adoption may alter the biological parent’s rights. We will examine some common types of cases.   Stepparent Adoptions   In today’s world of blended families, there are many scenarios in which a stepparent would want to adopt a stepchild.   Illinois does not allow a child to have three legal parents, so there are two ways a stepparent w...   Read more ...  

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How Do I Petition for a Change in Child Support?

What does child support mean for your family? Is it something you feel was correctly determined or do you believe you deserve more or owe less? If you are looking for an increase or decrease, it is certainly possible, but it does require some legal intervention.   In Illinois, during the period in which a child support order is temporary and pending, it is possible to change it. However, after the final judgement, it will be harder to modify. In order to do so, your lawyer will have to prov...   Read more ...  

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You’re Going Through a Divorce: Why You Need to Meditate

Divorce is one of life’s most difficult transitions. You are not only breaking-up with the person you thought you’d spend the rest of your life with, but you are also probably dealing with custody and financial challenges.   As with anything in life, there will be ups and downs throughout divorce and if you are currently in a hard stage, I’ve heard many clients say that meditation helped them.   Just a quick FYI, if you read meditation and mediation, you’re not the only one. Bu...   Read more ...  

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