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]
The Chicago City Council revised the city’s building code for the first time in more than seventy years, bringing it in line with the International Building Code (IBC) construction and use practices. These changes affect property owners, buyers, and developers. What Changed Construction technology … [read more]
Illinois law outlines the manner in which spousal maintenance is awarded in a divorce. Understanding the law's requirements can help ensure that the final divorce settlement and maintenance arrangements are fair to all parties. Maintenance Award Determined by Court Spousal maintenance is not an … [read more]
Spouses and family members enrolled in a government employee’s benefit plans are officially linked to the government entity and may be entitled to benefits and retirement income even after a divorce. In cases where the government employee fails to enroll them in their benefit plans, they may still … [read more]
Unwed parents do not always share equal rights of custody and parenting. Parentage must be established to support custody rights or claims of responsibility for support. Questions of Custody and Responsibility The rise in the number of unwed parents has raised questions about parental custody rights … [read more]
Balloon Mortgages generally feature lower interest rates, smaller monthly payments, and lower down payment requirements but the large balance that comes due at maturity may make them too risky for some homebuyers. The inability to pay the balloon payment due at the end of the mortgage term may … [read more]
Divorce sometimes motivates a spouse to use unfair tactics to delay proceedings or hurt the other party. It is essential to recognize these unfair tactics and overcome them as the parties move toward a fair divorce settlement. Games Hinder a Fair Settlement Anger is a common part of the grieving … [read more]
The American Dream of homeownership is once again a reality for those who may have been excluded from the housing market in the past. Buyers who do their homework and understand the local real estate market can avoid disappointment and be ready to close on the home of their dreams. With more buyers … [read more]
When sellers back out of a sale, buyers may be entitled to compensation for their losses. A contract to sell real estate is legally binding on buyers and sellers. Once the agreement is signed and funds are deposited in escrow, neither party can back out without consequences. Why Sellers Back Out On … [read more]
Proving that a parent is unfit to retain custody of their children is often difficult and requires more than disagreement with a marital partner about parenting. Understanding of the criteria courts use is essential in establishing that a parent is unfit. The Best Interests of Children Courts … [read more]
