Category Archives: Collaborative Divorce

A process in which both spouses and their attorneys commit to resolving disputes through cooperative negotiation rather than litigation, often involving financial and child‐focused specialists.

Why Should I Have a Lawyer in my Divorce?

Seeking Advice from Divorce Lawyer

No one gets married with the expectation that someday they will be divorced, but couples get divorced every year in Illinois. If it happens that you and your spouse decide to go this route, do yourselves a favor and find family law attorneys who focus their practice on family law issues. There are many attorneys […]

Divorce: When One Spouse Wants Out and the Other Does Not

Divorce - One Spouse Wants Out, Other Doesn’t

The divorce rate in the U.S. is high and in a large percentage of cases we see at The Law Offices of Patrick Markey, P.C., one spouse wants a divorce and the other on does not. We are just as likely to represent the person who does not want the divorce as we are to […]

Key Questions To Ask Your Prospective Divorce Attorney

Questions to ask lawyer

Selecting a divorce attorney is not always easy. You are likely upset and emotionally reeling from the fact that you have decided to get a divorce, but you need to set aside your emotions and choose to work with an attorney you trust and believe is looking out for your best interest. To make that […]

How to Know When It Is Time for a Divorce

time for a divorce

Marriage is complicated. Some spouses have thought about divorce for years before they take the step and file a petition for divorce. As for a list of reasons why a person should get a divorce, there is no one-size-fits-all criteria. Each case is unique, and the best advice is for the couple to see a […]

The Advantages of Having a Financial Neutral in a Collaborative Divorce

Financial Planning Meeting with Four People - The Advantages of Having a Financial Neutral in a Collaborative Divorce

A financial neutral has an important role on the Collaborative Divorce team, especially when the parties have complicated business, financial, or tax issues. They have experience in running financial scenarios, understanding maintenance buyouts, or other complex matters. Financial neutrals are usually CPAs or professionals with extensive financial background. They are generally better with numbers and […]

What is Co-Parenting After A Divorce?

Co-Parenting Father with Daughter

When parents’ divorce, a major concern is how to best provide for the interests of the children. Good co-parenting with your ex-spouse can be extremely effective, and help you and your children mentally, emotionally, and financially. Co-parenting fills the gap of how to best provide for your kids.  Here are a few common questions and […]

Tips for Surviving Divorce During The Holidays and COVID-19

Man contemplating divorce during holidays

Going through the holidays after separating from your spouse often raises stress levels. With COVID-19, separated parents may worry about the safety of their children while under the other parent’s care. Communication and flexibility can make the holidays easier for you and happier for your child. Here are some tips that might make things easier. […]

Common Misconceptions of Collaborative Divorce

Woman Discussing Divorce Options With Attorney

Many people, including divorcing couples and some attorneys, have misconceptions about how the process of collaborative divorce works in Illinois. They confuse it for an uncontested case, which is where the parties agree to all the issues before the case starts. If you are considering divorce or are in the process of it, we encourage […]