Dual agency, or representing both parties in a real estate transaction, places legal limits on a real estate agent’s ability to represent the interests of their client. Sellers and buyers should protect themselves by understanding the effects of dual agency. Is Dual Agency Legal? Unlike a real … [read more]
Courts award child custody based on the best interests of the children. While having a live-in companion does not disqualify parents from winning custody of their children, the companion is another factor the court must consider. Live-in relationships should be factored into the divorce settlement … [read more]
Filing first in a divorce proceeding offers several significant advantages to the petitioner. By filing first, the petitioner and divorce lawyers set the pace of court proceedings and deadlines. The petitioner may also have the ability to establish temporary maintenance and child custody … [read more]
An allegation of misbehavior or non-traditional conduct is not enough to show that a parent is unfit. To establish parental misconduct, the behavior must result in a lack of proper care for the children or negatively impact the parent-child relationship. Parental Misconduct and Loss of … [read more]
Penalties for violating Home Owner Association (HOA) rules can include fines, legal costs, and even liens against the property. To protect themselves, homeowners must understand the HOA’s regulations and their obligation to comply with them. Take HOA Violations Seriously HOAs in Illinois are … [read more]
Parenting and custody disputes during holiday seasons disrupt families and are emotionally upsetting to children. A detailed parenting plan that includes provisions for the holidays can ease the stress on children and eliminate parental disputes. Holiday Disputes Increase Anxiety While spouses … [read more]
Real estate investment scams can cost investors thousands in lost assets. Understanding how they operate and how to recognize them can protect investors against financial loss. Losses Rising As they take advantage of a recovering real estate market, investors continue to add real properties to … [read more]
Couples who attempt to dissolve their marriages without divorce lawyers often make crucial mistakes in their settlement agreements. These errors can result in financial hardship and child custody disputes. Do-It-Yourself Does not Equate to Fair Illinois law allows married couples to … [read more]
Although it’s difficult to predict in advance whether a divorce will be amicable or contested, a few warning signs can help divorcing spouses understand what they might be facing. For the unprepared, a contested divorce can result in financial loss, inequitable distribution of assets, and loss of … [read more]
Orders of protection may name children and other family members to safeguard them from physical harm or other abuse by a family member. When necessary to protect a child, courts may also grant temporary emergency custody to a petitioner to care for the minor until the full court hearing can … [read more]
