Divorces that involve children have many more complex issues than cases that do not. It is natural for parents to first become concerned with child custody issues, but child support is another contentious issue that must be addressed. Divorce is already an expensive process which is made even more costly when one spouse learns they will have to pay child support. Some people may want to avoid paying child support so much that they take drastic measures such as quitting their job. In these cases, their former spouse is typically left wondering if that is even allowed.

While no one can force someone to go to work every day, there are measures you can take if your former spouse is refusing to pay child support. A Lombard family lawyer can help ensure you receive the payments you are owed.

If you have received a traffic ticket for failing to stop at a stop sign or speeding, you may think it is easiest to simply check the ‘guilty’ box on the back of the ticket and pay the fine. However, even if the traffic violation will not result in a conviction on your driving record, you should not immediately concede that you are guilty. There are many ways a DuPage County criminal defense lawyer can help you fight the traffic ticket, and you will realize many benefits when working with one.

Avoid High Fines and Possible Jail Time

While a traffic violation may seem like a minor offense, there are times when one could result in very high fines and possibly even jail time. For example, if you are charged with driving 26 to 34 miles per hour over the speed limit, you will face a Class B misdemeanor charge. This type of offense is punishable by a maximum of 180 days in jail and a fine up to $1,500. If you are accused of speeding more than 35 miles per hour over the speed limit, the charge is upgraded to a Class A misdemeanor. This offense is much more serious and carries a sentence of up to one year in jail and a fine of $2,500.

If you are going through a divorce, you likely have a lot of questions. It is critical to receive the answers you need so you fully understand the process and can better protect your rights. Below are some of the most frequently asked questions about family law in Illinois, and the answers to them.

Is a Legal Separation Required?

Unlike some states, Illinois does not place a mandatory separation period on couples before they can file for divorce. If one party does not agree to the divorce, you may have to live separate and apart from your spouse. This does not necessarily mean that you have to live under separate roofs. You simply must show that you have lived independently from your spouse.

Divorce is not only an emotional process, but it is also a legal one governed by many laws and procedural rules. People going through issues such as child custody, property division, and more are often not aware of how the legal process works and so, they make mistakes that end up hurting their case. To ensure you receive the fair settlement you deserve, read the most common mistakes made below, and how to avoid them.

Choosing the Wrong Kind of Divorce

Many people think that to get a divorce, they must enter litigation and go to trial. While this is sometimes the only option, it is not the first one you should consider. Litigated divorces take much longer, are more costly, and a judge may not return a decision in your favor. Options such as collaborative law and mediation allow you and your spouse to control the process, which can reduce the stress of the process and still help you recover a fair settlement.

At Aldrich & Siedlarz Law, P.C, we are so proud to announce that Attorney Marlene E. Siedlarz has been recognized for her volunteer work. Each year, the DuPage Legal Aid Foundation recognizes attorneys dedicated to helping individuals in need and Attorney Siedlarz has been awarded for the year 2021. For years, she has used her in-depth knowledge of the law to help those in need. Today, she focuses on family law, helping families through issues such as child custody, grandparents’ visitation rights, and more.

About the DuPage Legal Aid Foundation

The DuPage Legal Aid Foundation was founded in 1975 and since that time, has been committed to helping clients in need by offering pro bono services. To do this, the Foundation relies on support from DuPage County, the State of Illinois Lawyers Trust Fund, the Eighteenth Judicial Circuit, and the DuPage County Bar Association, along with other sponsors and donors.