Illinois Divorce Law

 Posted on October 04, 2019 in Family Law

There have been some major changes to Illinois divorce in the past few years, which have caused some confusion for divorcing couples. Three of these family law statutes are outlined below. If you are going through a divorce or a custody/support disagreement, a Hinsdale divorce attorney can help you understand your rights and responsibilities during the coming months, and will be in your corner ensuring that your best interests are upheld.

Grounds for Divorce No Longer Relevant

One of the most important changes in Illinois divorce law is the elimination of grounds for divorce. Illinois used to require divorcing couples to provide grounds, or legal reasons, for divorce. These included, infidelity, abandonment, spousal abuse, alcohol or drug abuse, and more. A married couple can now get a divorce for no specified reason and do not have to rationalize their decision for the court.

College Expenses Now Mirror the Cost of The University of Illinois at Champaign-Urbana

For parents ordered to pay child support for college admission, Illinois used to base the level of financial support on the child’s needs and the parent’s ability to pay. While that is still taken into account, the maximum that a non-custodial parent has to pay is the cost of attending the University of Illinois at Champaign-Urbana, whether or not the child is attending another college in Illinois or outside of the state. The total average costs for tuition, books, fees, room and board, and other expenses come to $31,390 to $36,394 Moreover, the child must maintain a C average and complete their degree before they turn 23.

No More “Alienation of Affection”

Alienation of affection is a legal term used to describe the punitive and other damages awarded to a spouse whose partner cheated on them and therefore destroyed the marriage. For example, in states that still adhere to the doctrine of alienation of affection, a wife could sue the mistress of her husband as long as she is able to prove that their marriage was going fine before that third party came along. Alienation of affection, however, is no longer practiced in Illinois.

Reach Out to a Hinsdale Divorce Attorney

The statutes governing divorce and family law are constantly changing in Illinois. You need an attorney who is up to date on the most recent laws so that you are able to take full advantage of this constantly evolving legal process. A skilled divorce or family law attorney will ensure that your best interests are represented and will put you in the best position to win your custody, division of assets, or support case. To schedule a consultation at no cost with an experienced DuPage County divorce lawyer at the Law Office of Martoccio & Martoccio, call 630-920-8855 today.

Sources:

https://admissions.illinois.edu/invest/tuition

https://www.law.cornell.edu/wex/alienation_of_affections