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Divorce is a complex process, especially when intellectual property (IP) assets are involved. Whether you own patents, trademarks, copyrights, or business-related trade secrets, it is important that you understand how Illinois divorce laws impact these assets. Under 750 ILCS 5/503, Illinois follows an equitable distribution system, meaning the marital property is divided fairly but not necessarily equally. If intellectual property was created during the marriage, it may be considered marital pro...   Read more ...  

Divorce can be incredibly complex when one or both spouses own a medical practice. In Illinois, business assets—including medical practices—may be considered marital property, subject to equitable distribution under 750 ILCS 5/503. Whether a practice was established before or during the marriage, its value, ownership structure, and revenue streams can significantly impact the division of assets. Michael C. Craven works closely with his clients to protect their financial interests during divo...   Read more ...  

Enforcing an out-of-state custody order in Illinois can be complex, especially when parents live in different states. Many families face challenges when custody arrangements made in one state must be honored and enforced in another. Fortunately, the Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction and Enforcement Act (UCCJEA) provides a legal framework to handle these situations. As family law attorneys in Chicago, we help parents understand their rights and take the necessary steps to enforce valid out-of-st...   Read more ...  

A financial affidavit plays a critical role in Illinois divorce proceedings, providing the court and both parties with a comprehensive overview of each spouse’s financial situation. This document ensures transparency in matters such as income, expenses, assets, and debts, which is crucial for determining issues like spousal maintenance, child support, and the division of marital property. The accuracy and honesty of the financial affidavit can significantly impact the outcome of a divorce sett...   Read more ...  

Divorce is a challenging process for any family, but it is particularly difficult when children are involved. The end of a marriage changes family dynamics, and children often struggle with feelings of confusion, sadness, and fear. As a family law attorney who has handled countless divorce cases in Illinois, I understand that prioritizing the parent-child relationship during and after divorce is very important.  Children require stability, emotional support, and reassurance that they are loved ...   Read more ...  

Protecting your child custody rights in Illinois requires careful attention to the law and your actions during and after the divorce process. Parents often underestimate how certain behaviors can negatively affect their custody rights, even when they have the best intentions. Courts in Illinois prioritize the best interests of the child when determining custody, and specific mistakes can lead to losing or restricting parental responsibilities. The Illinois Marriage and Dissolution of Marriage Ac...   Read more ...