When The Power Play Becomes Too Much For You
Seeking a fair and just outcome following your divorce or parenting plan disputes may sound like a straightforward goal. But achieving that objective can have unexpected twists and turns when conflicting emotions suddenly become part of the equation. You can count on Thomas Bernikowicz, Attorney at Law to protect your rights for legal matters relating to:
- Contested or uncontested dissolution of marriage
- Domestic violence and orders of protection
- Spousal maintenance – alimony/spousal support
- Equitable distribution of marital property
- Parental responsibilities, formerly known as custody and visitation
- Accurate child support
When you and your spouse agree to all terms of your dissolution of marriage, you may create your own settlement agreements without the intervention of the court. This is the ideal situation. But many people find themselves in less than an ideal divorce. One spouse may be veiling assets or hiding income. An equitable division of marital property may be impossible to calculate if this is the case.
Disagreement over nonmarital assets may also complicate splitting marital property. When conflicts arise, the court steps in and considers several factors, including length of the marriage, contributions both spouses made to purchasing or maintaining disputed assets, tax consequences and several other circumstances to determine how to fairly resolve dividing the property.
What may seem relevant to the court is not always relevant to an individual. That is why it is critical to work with an attorney who is a skillful negotiator and has in-depth experience litigating in court.
Allocating Parental Responsibilities And Creating A Parenting Plan
Whether you are a divorcing couple or unwed parents with children, Thomas Bernikowicz ensures both parents understand that the best interests of their children must be put at the forefront of all decisions. Here again, when parents can agree to parenting time arrangements and decision-making that supports their child’s best interests, the court will incorporate their schedule into the court order.
For divorcing parties as well as separating couples who were never married, their parental responsibility agreement designates where the child will live and which parent will make certain critical decisions, including those relating to the child’s education, medical care and other choices. Their agreement includes how much time each parent will spend with the children. Parents can agree to joint legal and physical custody or make other arrangements for their parental responsibilities in the best interests of the child. Allocation of parenting responsibility is necessary to establish child support for the child. If you were not married but are separating, paternity will need to be established.
When parents cannot agree and submit separate plans, the family court judge gets involved to establish allocation of parental responsibility. The court considers multiple factors to arrive at a schedule it deems in the best interest of the children. Working with an experienced family law attorney is often the best method to protect your rights and preserve your family relationships.
Contact An Attorney Who Provides Fine-Edged Advocacy In And Out Of Court
Thomas Bernikowicz draws insight for the legal advocacy he offers from more than three decades of experience. Staying abreast of updates in Illinois’ domestic relations statutes and case law, he presents his clients with clear information about their legal options. He provides transparent communication and aggressive advocacy in and out of the courtroom to efficiently resolve their family law issues, including adoption. Call Thomas Bernikowicz, Attorney at Law at 312-815-6322 to schedule a consultation. You may also email the firm.