Dividing assets is one of the most important parts of the divorce process. To reach a fair resolution, both spouses must have an accurate understanding of the family’s finances, including income, property, accounts, and debts. Unfortunately, some divorces involve concerns that one spouse may be hiding assets or failing to fully disclose financial information. […]
Category Archives: Divorce
The legal process by which a married couple formally ends their marriage, involving court orders on asset division, support obligations, and, if applicable, child custody arrangements.
Divorce does not always mark the end of financial obligations between former spouses. In some cases, one spouse may be required to pay spousal maintenance (also known as alimony) to the other after the divorce is finalized. However, life circumstances can change over time. Income may increase or decrease, employment situations may shift, or […]
After a divorce is finalized, many people focus on moving forward emotionally and financially. However, one of the most important post-divorce steps is often overlooked: updating estate planning and legal documents. Without these updates, an ex-spouse may still remain listed in roles that control financial, medical, or inheritance decisions. Why Updates Matter Even after […]
Divorce is often viewed as an emotional process, but it is also a financial one. One of the first questions many people ask is, “How much will this cost?” The answer depends largely on the path a couple takes to resolve. In Illinois, divorce can proceed through traditional litigation or through alternative methods such as […]
“Equitable Distribution” Explained: Why a 50/50 Split Isn’t Guaranteed in Illinois One of the biggest misconceptions people have about divorce is the belief that everything automatically gets split equally between spouses. Many assume that divorce means a simple 50/50 division of all assets and debts. In Illinois, however, that is not how the law works. […]
Not all divorces follow the same path. Some couples reach agreement early and move forward smoothly, while others face disputes that require court involvement. Understanding the difference can help you set expectations and make informed decisions. Uncontested Divorce An uncontested divorce occurs when both parties agree on all major issues, such as property division, parenting […]
AI companions are increasingly influencing relationships, sometimes even contributing to divorce, by creating a new dependent relationship that is replacing real relationships. While AI can help with organizing thoughts or drafting materials, relying on it for emotional support, legal guidance, or major relationship decisions can create conflict, misinformation, and strain. Use AI carefully and always […]
Divorce isn’t just a legal process; it is an emotional one. A sincere apology can bridge the gap between conflict and closure by acknowledging each spouse’s contributions, easing tension, and unlocking stalled resolutions. An apology can shift the tone from adversarial to understanding, helping both parties move forward with greater peace and emotional healing. Divorce […]
Patrick Markey was recently a guest on The Respectful Divorce podcast highlighting Collaborative Divorce and Divorce With Respect Week®. Markey is a Chicago divorce attorney and president of Collaborative Divorce Illinois. “What I hear when I talk to someone about divorce is that they just don’t know how to get started,” said Markey. “Most people […]
The divorce process can seem like it will never end and there are some divorces that can even stretch out for several years. Why does this happen? The answer lies in a mix of human factors, legal system dynamics, and the approach chosen to resolve disputes. The Human Factor: Divorce Moves at the Pace of […]









