One of the biggest misconceptions people have when it comes to dividing assets in a divorce is that everything will be split equally or 50/50. Yet, that’s not always the case. Depending on where you live and your particular situation, equitable may not necessarily mean equal. Most states, including Illinois, divide assets by equitable distribution […]
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Forego the Fighting: How to Use a Conflict-Wise Approach to Get the Divorce Outcome You Want
As family law professionals, we never forget that divorce is a family matter with legal consequences, not the other way around. Yet, all too often, divorce attorneys are perceived as aggressive “sharks” who want to fight it out in court and care more about their hourly fees than their clients. For decades, this stereotype has […]
Read MoreBerger Schatz’s Lasting Legacy
There was no doubt in my mind that I would be a lawyer someday. It was almost meant to be. As a young kid, I envisioned being a trial lawyer. As I got older, my goal was to be a lawyer’s lawyer, and while I trained as a trial lawyer, I found myself drawn to […]
Read MoreWho Can See my Divorce Records?
Illinois divorce records are generally public record. These records are available for all to see. Divorce records often include personal information that could potentially be damaging to you or your spouse. In limited circumstances, a party’s privacy concerns may justify sealing the divorce file from public view. Alternatively, there are steps your lawyers can take […]
Read MoreMediation vs. Collaboration: What’s The Difference?
Alternative Dispute Resolution methods have become increasingly more popular the past 20 years. Many couples seek these methods to amicably end their marriage and remain out of court. Two popular Alternative Dispute Resolution methods are Mediation and Collaboration. Although similar, there are key differences. We’re breaking down the differences, so you and your spouse understand […]
Read MoreWhat to do Before Filing for Divorce
Filing for divorce is complex. You’re not only flooded with emotions, but you also must consider the logistics of separation. What happens to your finances? What happens to your children? Do I tell my spouse my feelings? If filing for divorce is your best option, we suggest that you first perform an internal audit and […]
Read MoreParenting Time During the Holidays
Holidays are a special time for children and their parents. Many families have unique traditions that they look forward to all year. After divorce, the holidays can stir up mixed emotions. Adjusting to a new parenting schedule and sudden child-less holidays can be difficult. I advise my clients who are going through a divorce to […]
Read MoreHow to Select Schools for Your Children In Divorce
It’s that time of year. Back to school. Between back-to-school shopping, registering your children for extracurricular activities, and cramming in all the last-minute summer events, prepping for a new school year can be chaotic. Not to mention, if you are divorced parents, or going through the divorce process, that adds additional stress. In that context, […]
Read MoreCan Attorneys Represent People They Know?
Nearly 70,000 attorneys actively serve the Illinois public, according to The State of Legal Profession for Illinois Lawyers. We all know someone who is an attorney, or we know someone who “knows” an attorney. This may be a close friend, a family member, neighbor, someone in your community, etc. When going through a stressful experience like […]
Read MoreEverything You Need to Know About Adoption
Adoption has been a legal process in the United States since 1850. 6 in 10 Americans have had personal experience with adoption, according to Adoption Network. In conjunction with Pride Month, we would like to share how Berger Schatz has helped couples, including the LGBTQ+ Community navigate the adoption process. This is important because there […]
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