Posts By: MICHAEL C CRAVEN

Property Division in an Illinois Divorce

Once you decide to divorce, you face a number of issues that can either be solved quickly with a calm discussion or turn into a contentious battle. The division of property is one of those issues. Some spouses agree on how to divide their belongings, savings, and debt. They work it out by negotiation and present their plan to the court for approval. Other times there are arguments over who owns what, how much something is worth, and who deserves more. In these situations, you may need to ask the...   Read more ...  

Negotiating Spousal Support During a Divorce

Are you interested in receiving spousal support after your divorce? Will you be required to pay support to your ex-spouse? If so, you can negotiate the amount and duration of maintenance (the legal name for alimony or spousal support in Illinois) with your spouse with the help of an experienced Chicago divorce attorney. Two of the most common arguments for alimony are that one spouse earns less than the other because he or she stayed home with the kids and a spouse has become accustomed to a cer...   Read more ...  

The Pros and Cons of a Prenuptial Agreement

While a prenuptial agreement does not look romantic at first glance, there is nothing more loving than planning your future with someone. This contract is not entirely about what happens in the event of a divorce, though this may be an important aspect of it. It is also an agreement that can lay out how you plan to handle your finances and estate. To learn more about the advantages and disadvantages of prenuptial agreements, contact me today.   The Advantages of Prenuptial Agreements   The...   Read more ...  

How to Minimize the Impact of Divorce on Children

When you and your spouse decide it is time to end your marriage, you have to figure out when and how to tell your kids. It is hard to imagine a more difficult conversation. Then, once you have told your children, you must navigate the tumultuous waters of separating your life from your spouses, all while minimizing the impact of these changes on them. There are so many factors to think about, it is smart to discuss with your spouse exactly how you plan to handle your separation, future disagreem...   Read more ...  

Unique Challenges for Couples Divorcing After 50

It is not uncommon for decades-long marriages to end in divorce. You and your spouse have been together a long time. You have experienced the ups and downs of marriages, raised your children, and are now approaching retirement or are already retired. It is a different time of life now, and you may both look forward to moving on with your lives separately. Because your children are adults, you may be tempted to believe your divorce will go smoothly. However, there are a number of unique challenge...   Read more ...  

5 Common Divorce Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

There are many mistakes you can make when dissolving your marriage and they are all understandable. Divorce is an emotional time and usually a new, unexpected experience. However, you can work to avoid the most common errors by partnering with an experienced Chicago divorce attorney and understanding the best steps to take before, during, and after a divorce.   During your divorce, strive to avoid these common mistakes:   Not Planning for Life After Divorce. A divorce can absorb all of yo...   Read more ...  

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