Posts By: MICHAEL C CRAVEN

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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Less Common Triggers for Divorce

Lack of Communication Can Trigger Divorce I have been a Chicago divorce attorney for many years now. In my time, I have counseled a sea of both divorced spouses, as well as, spouses contemplating a divorce. The vast majority of these parties, at some point, come to focus on the main reasons for why they are even considering, or going through, a divorce. Finances and infidelity have traditionally been at the top of the list. The truth of the matter, however, is that there are a host of facto...   Read more ...  

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Discovery: A Helpful Tool for Chicago Divorce

Divorce Discovery Paperwork In Illinois divorce cases, a crucial element is how to divide marital assets. Each divorce is unique and there are a number of ways to resolve this key issue. But one thing common to all Illinois divorce cases is that complete information is imperative. As a Chicago divorce lawyer, I know that in many cases, this isn’t a major problem. Some spouses come into the divorce with shared financial responsibilities, jointly owned accounts, and no secrets. For others, ...   Read more ...  

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