Statistics show that more and more same-sex couples are adopting. In fact, homosexual couples are four times more likely to be raising an adopted child and six times more likely to be raising foster children than their heterosexual counterparts. LGBT families are most commonly created through the adoption process, and same-sex adoption is now legal in all 50 states. If you are in a same-sex relationship and wish to adopt a child in Illinois, a family law attorney can help you navigate the legal proceedings to realize your dream of becoming a parent.   

The Adoption Process

In general, the adoption process for same-sex couples is no different than it is for heterosexual couples. Under Illinois law, adoption placements (as well as foster care placements) are determined based on what is in the best interests of the child. The sexual orientation of the potential parents is not a factor in determining whether to grant consent for adoption.

Divorce can disrupt the lives of those involved in many ways. Mental health professionals say it is among the most traumatic emotional experiences a person can endure. It can also provide a significant change in an individual’s financial situation. In most cases, where there were once two incomes supporting a single household, the former spouses must now maintain separate residences and lives on their income alone.

While this may not impact a high-earner, it can have a major effect on someone who does not make a large salary. That is where spousal maintenance comes in. Also known as spousal support or alimony, spousal maintenance is a recurring financial payment from one former spouse to the other to offset the loss of income for the lesser-earning individual. While often temporary, it gives that person a chance to build their career so they can eventually support themselves.

Going through a divorce can make you feel lost in an unfamiliar world. You did not get married thinking it would end this way, but know that your situation is common, and stability returns with time. 

While the stress of divorce may be hard on you, it can be especially difficult on any children you may share with your soon-to-be ex-spouse, regardless of their ages. It is easy for children to get caught up in the middle of a divorce, but by following these tips, you can successfully move on to the next chapter of your lives together.

When an unsuspecting spouse receives notification that their partner has filed for divorce, it is often devastating. Even when a spouse has seemed disinterested or removed from the relationship for some time, nothing can fully prepare someone for the pain of when the official news arrives. 

If your spouse’s divorce filing caught you by complete surprise, you may be considering various ways to keep your marriage together, including whether you can fight your divorce in court. Experienced divorce attorneys agree, in Illinois, this is a complete waste of time and money.

If, after your divorce, you have had an income increase or decrease, or if the needs of your children have changed, you may need to consider asking for a child support modification. Generally, a support order may only be changed every three years in Illinois. However, if you can show a significant change of circumstances that requires a modification, a request can be considered at any time.

What Are Some Reasons for Modification?

As life goes on, everyone faces ups and downs. Parents can run into any number of issues that may qualify for a change in child support. These reasons may include:

• Either parent’s income has increased or decreased significantly.
• The child’s medical or educational needs have changed and become more or less expensive than in years past.
• A change in either parent’s work schedule requires that the child be cared for by a day care center or babysitter, and these costs must be divided between the parents.

Those are just a few situations that could warrant a support modification. An attorney can help you determine whether you have reason to file a request for a change.