Divorce

A divorce is likely one of the most emotionally stressful and traumatic times in one’s life, and there is no need to compound that stress with concerns about one’s legal representation. Employing a skilled attorney to represent your interests can make the transition easier. A dedicated, experienced, and compassionate divorce attorney can guide you through the divorce process while working both to protect your interests and to achieve the best possible result for you and your children. Jennifer L. Lavin, P.C. is experienced regarding the issues frequently involved in Illinois divorce cases, including property division, child support, allocation of parental responsibilities and parenting time (formerly known as custody), spousal maintenance (formerly known as alimony), and the enforcement and modification of court orders regarding child support, spousal support, and property.

In an uncontested divorce, spouses are able to reach an agreement on the issues involved in their matter without extensive, protracted, and often costly litigation. Uncontested divorces are advantageous because spouses can retain greater control over the decisions to be made in their cases, rather than seeking intervention from the courts, which are far less familiar with their specific facts and circumstances. Additionally, uncontested divorces are generally less costly and resolved more quickly than contested divorces.

When spouses cannot solve their issues through negotiation and settlement, however, it is important to have a skilled attorney who is prepared to litigate. Contested divorces are those in which spouses are unable to reach an agreement on their issues and require intervention of the courts to adjudicate their matters. Contested divorces are generally far more time-consuming and costly than uncontested divorces. Alternative dispute resolution methods, such as mediation, are one way to reduce litigation expenses. However, in the event that a contested divorce is unavoidable, it is essential for your attorney to vigorously litigate to protect the interests of both yourself and your children.

Divorces involving parties with a high net worth often involve complex financial issues regarding the division of assets and liabilities. Issues that may arise in a high net worth divorce include hidden assets, dissipation of marital funds for non-marital purposes, complex taxation, valuation of businesses and real estate, trusts, retirement accounts, stocks and investments, and prenuptial and postnuptial agreements. Asset protection is of the utmost importance in a high net worth divorce, and it is essential to retain the services of an attorney who is sensitive to this objective.

Jennifer L. Lavin, P.C. is dedicated to providing clients with the tailored divorce strategies they need, as no two divorce cases are identical. If you are contemplating divorce, please contact me at (312) 919-8857 to schedule a complimentary consultation to discuss your unique facts and circumstances.