Orland Park Divorce Lawyer

Experienced Divorce Lawyer Protecting Clients in Orland Park, IL

If you are considering divorce, you are not alone. There are nearly 700,000 divorces annually in the U.S., and the rate appears to be rising. Whatever your reasons for divorcing, you are probably under significant stress, and you may be worrying about various details that could complicate the process. You may wonder if your soon-to-be ex will somehow take advantage of you. You need an effective lawyer by your side to help you get the best possible results in your case.

When you work with an experienced family law attorney from the Law Office of J. Francis Barker, P.C., we will provide skilled legal guidance and compassionate support while ensuring that your rights and best interests are protected. From our office in Orland Park, Attorney Barker will handle your case personally. His dedication and determination can make a real difference for you.

Asset Division in a Divorce

When couples split, they must decide how to divide their marital assets and debts. Illinois requires an equitable division, which is not necessarily 50/50. Your first step is to create a detailed inventory of things you own, which may include:

• Your residence, rental properties, land, and commercial real estate
• Vehicles, including cars, trucks, motorcycles, ATVs, and boats
• Bank, investment, pension, and retirement accounts
• Your personal belongings, such as clothing and phones
• Your household items, such as appliances, cookware, furniture, yard equipment, and artwork
• High-value items, including jewelry and collectibles
• Businesses

You also need to list debts, which might include a mortgage, car loan, credit card debts, or student loans. The Law Office of J. Francis Barker, P.C. will help you determine the best way to split your debts and assets fairly and negotiate a fair and reasonable settlement. If your ex disagrees, we will help you fight to protect your interests and ensure that you will have the financial resources you need going forward.

Spousal Support in a Divorce

For many couples, one spouse may earn significantly more money than the other. In these cases, the spouse with the lower income may request spousal support, also called alimony or maintenance. The purpose of these payments is to ensure that both spouses can their standard of living and meet their financial needs going forward. These payments can be short- or long-term, and the amounts will depend on the income earned by both parties. Factors that may play a role in divorce cases involving spousal support include:

• The length of the marriage
• Each spouse's income and future earning capacity
• The standard of living during the marriage
• Each spouse's age and health condition
• Contributions a person made to their spouse's income, education, or career
• Valid legal agreements, such as a prenuptial agreement

The Law Office of J. Francis Barker, P.C. can help you determine whether spousal support may be an issue to address in your divorce. If so, we will work to ensure that the amount of payments and the duration they will last are calculated correctly according to Illinois law.

Child Custody and Support

If you have minor children, you will need to develop a comprehensive parenting plan during the divorce process. Because of the strong emotions involved in your divorce, it can be challenging to make the best decisions for your children's future. Nevertheless, you will need to determine the best ways to handle concerns related to child custody, decision-making authority, parenting time, and child support. When drafting and negotiating the terms of your parenting plan, Attorney Barker will carefully consider various factors such as:

• The distance between parental residences
• Any special needs of your children
• Whether either parent has a history of drug or alcohol use, abuse, domestic violence, or criminal activities that may endanger your children
• Work schedules and obligations
• Each parent's income
• The standard of living your children are accustomed to

Depending on their ages, your children's wishes may also be a factor in the decisions made regarding child custody. We will work to help you put a parenting plan in place that focuses on the best interests of your children.

Unforeseen Challenges in Divorces

Divorces are rarely neat and tidy. During the process, you may encounter various problems. The Law Office of J. Francis Barker, P.C. can help you overcome these potential challenges, which may include:

• Your spouse spending money extravagantly
• Your spouse hiding, selling, or giving away assets
• Your spouse trying to turn your children against you
• Your spouse threatening or abusing you or your children
• Your spouse's intention to file bankruptcy

Whatever complications may arise, Attorney Barker will be here to explain the legal implications and help you determine your best course of action.

Contact Our Orland Park Divorce Attorney

Even in an amicable divorce, you will need to take steps to protect your rights and best interests. Let the Law Office of J. Francis Barker, P.C. be your advocate. Attorney Barker will guide you through each step of your case, helping you take steps to achieve the best possible outcome. Contact us at 708-321-1223 today to speak with our Orland Park, Illinois divorce lawyer. We will provide you with a free consultation, and we will work closely with you to address the legal issues involved in your divorce.