Homer Glen Family Lawyer

Family law encompasses a broad range of legal issues concerning family relationships. This includes matters such as divorce, property division in divorce, child custody, and mediation. We understand that family law cases can be emotional and complicated. If you or a loved one is facing a legal matter, contact an experienced Homer Glen family lawyer.

Connect with our professional and compassionate legal counsel at Vahey Law & Mediation to discuss how our team can serve you with your family law matters. From divorce processes to custody proceedings, we adjust our strategies and solutions to match your specific circumstances and needs.

Family law matters comprise 6%, or nearly 4 million cases, out of the 66 million handled by state courts in the U.S. each year. Family law covers divorce, child custody, child custody relocation, property division, and mediation. Understanding these areas can help you determine which legal services match your specific needs. 

• Dissolution of marriage: In Illinois, divorce or dissolution is granted based on “irreconcilable differences” that have led to the irretrievable breakdown of the marriage. Illinois is a no-fault divorce state, which means fault is not required to be proven by a spouse to obtain a divorce. Illinois also recognizes civil unions and dissolves them under the same laws as marriages, addressing similar issues like property division, support, and child-related matters. 
• Child custody: Child custody is determined based on the best interests of the child, with a preference for both parents having ongoing relationships with the child. The state supports joint parental responsibilities, where both parents participate in major decisions and shared parenting time, based on the expectation that parents can cooperate in raising their children together. 
In Illinois, custody is now known as allocation of parental responsibilities and includes parenting time and decision-making power. These may be divided between the parents, but may not be equal, or certain elements may be allocated to only one parent if it is best for the child.
• Child custody relocation: In Illinois, relocating a child when there’s a custody order requires following specific legal procedures. The court’s primary concern is always the child’s best interests, and factors like the impact and benefits of a potential relocation will be evaluated. 
• Property division: Property division in divorce follows equitable distribution laws, which means the division of assets must be fair, but not necessarily equal. The court determines what is fair based on various factors, not just a 50/50 split. High net worth divorces or divorces involving a family business entail complex determinations that are crucial to have a skilled attorney assist with. 
• Mediation: In family law, mediation is a process where family members can reach agreements on issues such as property division, parenting time, or other disputes with a neutral third party advising. It’s a confidential process aiming to find solutions that work for the family. If family members are open to amicably resolving solutions in this manner, it can be a cheaper, faster resolution process that keeps family matters private.
• Spousal maintenance: Illinois courts award spousal maintenance (alimony) when there is a significant financial imbalance between the spouses after divorce, particularly when one spouse will struggle to support themselves. Your family attorney can ensure fair terms are granted, whether you are the paying spouse or the spouse receiving maintenance.

As a top-rated lawyer, Attorney Sarah M. Vahey provides exceptional counsel and support to a diverse range of clients and their individual circumstances. Sarah Vahey strives to deliver highly personalized and dedicated legal assistance. Our client reviews and testimonials often note her unwavering guidance, prompt action, and professionalism. 

We serve many locations across Illinois, including Joliet, Will County, Naperville, Bolingbrook, and other surrounding areas, and regularly represent and provide advocacy for clients at the Will County Courthouse, where our team is familiar with procedures and highly respected.

Q: How Much Does a Family Lawyer Cost in Illinois?

A: The cost of hiring a family attorney in Illinois depends on various elements, with case complexity being a primary factor. Divorce cases involving significant assets or disputed custody arrangements typically require higher fees because of the additional time and resources needed. Whether or not the case proceeds to court will increase the cost. The location and experience of the lawyer may also influence the cost of your case.

Q: What Is the Average Duration of a Family Law Case in Homer Glen?

A: The duration of family law cases in Homer Glen can vary, depending on the circumstances involved. The duration is influenced by the case’s complexity and whether it is contested or uncontested. State regulations mandate that child custody cases, specifically, reach a conclusion within 18 months after the respondent is formally served with the legal papers. Mediation can sometimes be a quicker method to resolve your family law matter if applicable to your circumstances.

Q: What Errors Do People Frequently Make in Family Law Cases?

A: In family law cases, common errors include poor communication, emotional decision-making, lack of preparation and documentation, and neglecting the children’s best interests. Specifically, this can manifest as using children as leverage in disputes, failing to disclose assets, or not following court orders. An experienced Homer Glen lawyer can help guide you so that you avoid making errors with your family law case. 

Q: How Do I Make Sure My Child’s Needs Come First During Family Law Proceedings?

A: To prioritize your child’s needs in family law proceedings, focus on maintaining a child-centered approach, demonstrating your ability to provide a stable and nurturing environment, and communicating constructively with the other parent. Additionally, being prepared for court by gathering necessary documentation, being truthful and transparent, and trying to remain respectful and composed throughout the proceedings can help keep your approach focused on your child’s needs, strengthening your case.

Having a family law attorney is vital when dealing with complex legal issues involving domestic relationships, as an experienced Homer Glen family law attorney can offer direction, advocacy, and emotional support throughout difficult circumstances. A knowledgeable legal advocate can work to minimize conflict, encourage efficiency in reaching agreements, and defend your rights in your personal and parental roles. 

Contact Vahey Law & Mediation, LLC, today to schedule a confidential consultation to see how our dedicated and committed team can serve you. Our team is committed to finding cost-effective solutions that our clients are happy with and providing a positive future path for their families.