Lake County and Cook County Divorce Law Blog

When a couple in Illinois chooses to walk down the aisle, they likely do so with every intention of spending the rest of their lives together. Over the years that follow, they may have children and become professionally successful, even opening their own business, all while saving for retirement. However, some couples drift apart, leaving them with the prospect of a high asset divorce.

Couples facing asset division in a divorce sometimes quickly realize the complexity of the task facing them. As such, many turn to Lois Kulinsky & Associates, Ltd. for guidance. Our attorneys have over 45 years of combined experience helping address the issues associated with asset division as part of a divorce. We are dedicated to our clients, ensuring that they are informed throughout the process.

The vast majority of people in Illinois would likely agree that divorce is difficult for all parties involved. In fact, some people may choose to delay or avoid a divorce because they are worried about the overall well-being of the children. While a contentious divorce can have a negative impact on children, there are certain child custody and other considerations that could help children with the transition to two homes.

As parents shift from one family home to two, there is some inherent upheaval. While there are often negative feelings associated with the end of a marriage, some reports indicate that parents who can work together to reduce the conflict can make the experience easier for children. Parents who can prioritize their children's well-being over their emotions can be successful in this.

Facing the prospect of divorce can be daunting -- you may have serious concerns over how this process will impact your financial security and your plans for the future. As you move ahead with your Illinois divorce, it can prove beneficial for you to think about what is ahead and how you can protect yourself. This can be particularly important in high-asset divorces.

When there is a lot of money and significant assets on the line, your spouse may be tempted to hide money and bank accounts. Hidden assets can lead to grossly lopsided divorce orders and final resolutions that are not fair to the other side. If you suspect this is happening, there are things you can do to fight back and work for your fair share of all marital assets. 

When an Illinois couple or one elsewhere around the nation decides to get a divorce, there are a multitude of decisions that must be made. Typically, many of the decisions deal with property division and determining who gets what after the couple is no longer together. In the past, most courts viewed a couple's pets as property and made their determination as to where a pet would reside with that mindset. However, many states have enacted laws -- or are planning to -- that will consider custody of pets in the same manner as child custody.

Pets are often considered to be members of one's family. Therefore, the shift in how pet custody is determined is a welcome change. Another state has passed a law that will go into effect in 2019 that will make decisions based on the best interest of the pet, not simply seen as property to be divided.