In Illinois, more than 40 percent of women and 25 percent of men say they have been victims of domestic violence. It is these statistics that have propelled the state to enact stringent domestic violence laws. Part of these laws includes the right of an alleged victim to request the court issue an order of protection against the person they say has abused them. Violating an order of protection can result in serious consequences, including automatic jail time. If you have been accused of domestic violence, you need an Illinois criminal defense attorney representing you.

One of the most critical issues a divorcing couple has to come to an agreement on is child custody, referred to as the allocation of parental responsibilities under Illinois law. While some couples are able to work together to come up with a custody and parenting plan that they both agree on, the relationships of many other couples have broken down so irretrievably that they cannot agree on anything.

Every state makes its own laws when it comes to divorce, child custody, and child support. This also includes whether or not a parent will be responsible for any contributions towards their child’s college education. In Illinois, the state is committed to ensuring that every person has the opportunity to obtain an education. This can also include requiring a parent who has the means to pay towards their child’s college education.