Van talked about how his practice has changed since Illinois declared this year that the only reason for divorce is “Irreconcilable Differences”. Discussions with parties now mostly involve the division of marital property including retirement accounts and inherited property. Illinois usually divides 50/50 but judges may take individual circumstances into account.

Maintenance (alimony) is now calculated based on years of marriage. If less than 20, it’s based on income and other expenses such as children from other marriages. If more than 20, it could be permanent payment.

Custody is now called Allocation of parenting time and includes doctors appointments, sporting events not just where the child is staying for a given amount of time. 

Give Van a call if you hear someone talking about their marital problems and wants to talk to a lawyer.