Practice Areas: Divorce, Child Support, Custody & Visitation
Divorce Law in Chicago
It is a commonly known statistic that close to half of all marriages in the United States end in divorce. Even under the best circumstances, when a divorce is a decision that both parties amicably agree to, the process of obtaining a divorce in Chicago can be emotionally devastating to everyone involved.
In some cases, couples may be able to dissolve their marriage through a simplified process. However, most divorces require the services of an experienced family law attorney to help resolve complex issues concerning child custody, child support, and visitation; the division of the parties' property and alimony. With the aim of minimizing the financial and emotional strain of divorce, the knowledgeable attorneys at the Muller Firm work with their clients to reach property settlements, make child custody and support arrangements, and resolve other divorce issues.
Child Support Law in Chicago
It is the duty of every parent to provide for his or her children, both before and after a divorce. A child's right to support from a parent normally does not end until the child reaches 18, marries, or otherwise becomes emancipated. In general, the starting point for child support is determining the amount of income that is available to provide for the child, including the custodial parent's income. The State of Illinois has guidelines for determining the amount of child support payable by parents. The amount also usually reflects the ages of the parties' children and any special needs they may have, including educational expenses, health insurance, and any payments not covered under the health insurance. A court may also order formation of a trust for the support and education of the children.
The skilled family law attorneys at the Muller Firm can assist you in determining the amount of child support due, the method of payment, identify which spouse is entitled to tax deductions for dependents, the enforcement of support obligations and many other issues related to child support in Chicago divorce proceedings. To learn more about child support law in Chicago, click here...
Child Custody Law in Chicago
One of the most emotionally charged issues in a divorce is determining who will have custody of the parties' children after a divorce or separation. Custody awards typically are based on a child's best interest and welfare, which has priority over the claims and personal desires of the parents. Fitness for custody can be determined by considering the financial wellness, physical health and moral fitness of the parent, the dwelling or residence of the parent, ability to provide medical care and education. The child's preference, to the extent it is not opposed to his or her welfare, may also be considered by the court.
In many cases, joint custody will be awarded; under such an arrangement, both parents have the right to have full information about the children and to share in making major decisions for the children. To learn more about child custody law in Chicago, click here...
Visitation Rights Law in Chicago
Visitation rights involve the rights of a non-custodial parent, a grandparent, or a friend to visit a child. Courts generally allow reasonable visitation rights, but can refuse visitation upon evidence that contact with the petitioning parent or visitor is likely to harm the child or is not conducive to the child's welfare, or the child objects to such a visit.
