Posts By: MICHAEL C CRAVEN

Almost a ‘Do It Yourself’ Divorce

Step by Step As a divorce attorney, I understand that the cost of a divorce can often be expensive. However, if someone cannot afford the full services of a divorce lawyer, there is a cost-efficient, yet still effective, option – Limited Scope Representation. The state of Illinois expanded the rules regarding Limited Scope Representation just over one year ago. These new rules allow people with limited means to pay for a portion of the legal services needed for their cases rather than hiring ...   Read more ...  

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MARRIAGE EQUALITY IN ILLINOIS

Marriage-Equality-Is-Here-In-Illinois Converting-Civil-Unions-to-Marriage-In-Illinois Marriage equality has reached Illinois and Cook County. As of June 1, the over 23,000 same-sex couples living in Illinois can legally be married throughout their state. Exactly two years before this date, Illinois began to recognize civil unions. However, on November 20, 2013, Illinois governor Pat Quinn signed the Illinois Religious Freedom and Marriage Fairness Act bill into law to legalize same-sex marr...   Read more ...  

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Careful, Someone May Be Listening

Recorded Words Can Be Used Against You in Court The phrase “Think before you speak” now holds more meaning in the divorce world than ever before. This year, the Illinois Supreme Court lifted restrictions for recording any part of a conversation or electronic communication without the consent of all parties involved. As a result, everyone, but especially spouses involved in the divorce process, need to think about how their words can be used against them. Everyone needs to be careful when th...   Read more ...  

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Child Advocates in Illinois Divorce Cases

Child with Divorcing Parents When children are involved in a divorce case and there are parenting issues regarding the children, divorcing clients often ask their divorce lawyer the following questions: What is a Child Representative (Child Rep)? What is a Guardian Ad Litem (GAL)? When are they assigned? Why are they assigned? Who is responsible for paying their fees? I posted a blog on this subject in 2012, but thought it was time to revisit this topic. When Might a Child Rep or a GAL be Ass...   Read more ...  

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How Do I ask my Fiancé for a Prenuptial Agreement?

Prenuptial Agreements Many individuals nervously contact me before their wedding date to ask about a “prenup” agreement.  They might have been advised by a family member or a friend to investigate signing a prenuptial agreement, but aren’t sure whether or not they need one.  Even if the person knows that they should have an agreement drawn up, they are concerned about the emotional ramifications of approaching their soon-to-be spouse and his or her family about it. ...   Read more ...  

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Hiring a Lawyer in Your Divorce Case

Divorce Questions There are many people who question whether or not to represent themselves in their divorce case, instead of hiring an attorney. In most cases, lawyers would advise against representing oneself, especially when children, maintenance (alimony), and assets are involved. As we know, there are many reasons why some choose to represent themselves. The most commonly heard reasons are related to the cost of a divorce. Those who represent themselves in court without lawyers are referre...   Read more ...  

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