The Stephan Law Firm Blog
Co-Parenting Plans May Have Expired, But Co-Parenting is a Lifelong Commitment
The time is coming soon that your recent high school graduate will be leaving the nest to embark on their next adventure. You've probably created a mental list of all the conversations you need to have. How to change a flat tire. The importance of a budget. How to...
UNDERSTANDING MEDIATION
Author: Kelly Stephan | Stephan Law Firm Mediation is a process where the parties can attempt to amicably settle the pending issues in their divorce, or even child related issues that occur after the divorce is finalized. Mediation may be voluntary or court ordered....
Divorce and Family Law in Light of COVID-19
By Kelly Stephan of Stephan Law Firm The practice of law is based on the fundamental principles of precedent. In other words, as lawyers, we often look to history and relevant past examples to set a standard for how current events should be decided. And, as humans, we...
DO WE NEED A GUARDIAN AD LITEM?
Author: Kelly Stephan | Stephan Law Firm In many divorce cases with minor children, the Court may, at their discretion, appoint a Guardian Ad Litem. The role of the “GAL” in Illinois parenting/custody matters is governed by 750 ILCS 5/506(a)(2). The GAL shall submit...
DIVORCING. WHEN TO STAY OR MOVE?
Author: Kelly Stephan | Stephan Law Firm Staying in the same home as your soon to be ex-spouse can be emotionally draining and sometimes downright dangerous. Deciding whether or not to stay can be extremely difficult, but it is important to know what the repercussions...
BIRD NESTING. A GOOD OPTION FOR YOU AND YOUR CHILDREN?
Author: Kelly Stephan | Stephan Law Firm Bird-Nesting is when, during a divorce or parentage battle, the parents move in and out of the home and the children stay put. This could mean that the parties each have their own residence or are sharing the second. This...
TIPS FOR EFFECTIVELY COPARENTING DURING AND AFTER A DIVORCE
Author: Kelly Stephan | Stephan Law Firm The goal in every divorce should be to lessen the impact on the children. So how do we effectively coparent? Perhaps we start with the things we SHOULD NOT do. We should not: Say negative things about the other parent to the...
SOCIAL MEDIA AND DIVORCE PROCEEDINGS
Author: Kelly Stephan | Stephan Law Firm Almost everyone is on social media. It is a useful tool to keep up with the people in our lives. However, especially during divorce proceedings, it is important to be careful about what you post. Anything that is posted can be...