Illinois Family Law Blog

Family law blog by Patrick Markey, Attorney at Law

Welcome to our divorce and family law blog, updating you on the law, trends and issues affecting relationships and families.

Divorce: Why Does it Take So Long?

The divorce process can seem like it will never end and there are some divorces that can even stretch out for several years. Why does this happen? The answer lies in a mix of human factors, legal system dynamics, and the approach chosen to resolve disputes. The Human [...]

Divorce: What is Equitable Distribution?

Property division is often one of the most challenging issues to resolve in a divorce. In Illinois, this division is guided by the principle of “equitable distribution,” a term that doesn’t necessarily mean a strict 50/50 split of marital assets. Instead, equitable distribution refers to a fair allocation [...]

Pros and Cons of Mediation for Divorce

Mediation is an increasingly popular alternative to the traditional divorce process that ends up in court. Resolving disputes outside of court offers several benefits. However, like any divorce process, Mediation has its strengths and weaknesses. Understanding both the pros and cons can help you decide if mediation is [...]

Health Insurance in Divorce: Key Considerations

An important, yet overlooked, aspect of a divorce is how to handle health insurance for both the divorcing spouses and their children. During the divorce process, you will need to make decisions about how you, your spouse and your children will continue to be covered by a health [...]

Why No-Fault Divorce Matters

One of the benefits of a no-fault divorce is that it simplifies the legal process. Prior to no-fault divorce becoming the law, there was a requirement that for a divorce to be granted that fault had to be assigned to you or to your spouse. Which is to [...]

Common Divorce Fears: Will My Divorce Harm Our Children?

One of the most common fears people have about divorce is the potential harm it may cause to their children. While it is true that divorce is hard on children, staying in a toxic relationship can also have detrimental effects. So how can you protect your children during [...]

How To Have a Positive Co-Parenting Experience For Your Kids

Co-parenting is an important part of how you handle your divorce and more importantly how you will handle your post-divorce life. A good working co-parenting relationship is crucial for the well-being of your children. The starting point for co-parenting is to focus on effective communication, prioritizing the children’s [...]

Divorce When a Special Needs Child is Involved

There are unique considerations and decisions that come with divorcing parents of a special needs child should be carefully examined. There is no standard solution for parents with a special needs child because each situation is different and requires customized solutions. Here are some of the key decisions [...]

Advantages of Co-Parenting Apps During and After Divorce

Co-parenting during and after a divorce can be an enormous challenge, but modern technology has brought forth a solution: co-parenting apps. These apps, such as Our Family Wizard and Talking Parents, offer a plethora of advantages to make the co-parenting journey smoother and more organized for you and [...]

What is “Joint Custody” in Illinois

In divorce and child custody matters, the term “joint custody” has undergone a transformation in Illinois, where it is now referred to as “parental responsibility.” How does parental responsibility impact divorced parents and their children? Parental responsibility in Illinois consists of two primary components: decision-making and parenting time. [...]

Divorce with Respect Week - March 4-8, 2024

Why I am Participating in Divorce with Respect Week

Participating in Divorce with Respect Week holds profound significance for me, rooted in my strong belief in the power of collaborative methods and mediation. Over the years, I’ve come to understand that the essence of a respectful divorce lies in resolving conflicts outside the courtroom—a task demanding considerable [...]

Pros and Cons of Prenuptial Agreements

You have just gotten engaged, and the excitement is exhilarating. In the midst of the wedding preparations and dreams of a shared future, the question of a prenuptial agreement (prenup) might arise. But what are the pros and cons of taking this legal step? Having Important Conversations Before [...]