Divorce and Taxes: Who Gets the Credit?
Going through a divorce is difficult enough without worrying about tax season. But understanding how divorce affects your taxes is important for protecting your financial future. From filing status to dependent exemptions, the way you handle taxes during and after divorce can have a real impact on your wallet. If you’re facing divorce and have […]
Rebuilding After Divorce: Legal Tips for What Comes Next
Going through a divorce can feel like your whole life has been flipped upside down. The emotional stress, changes to your family, and the legal work can all be overwhelming. But once your divorce is final, it’s time to look ahead. You have the power to rebuild—and there are some key legal steps that can […]
How to Amend a Separation Agreement in Chicago
When life changes, the separation agreement you once relied on may no longer match your needs. Your job, parenting responsibilities, financial situation, or your child’s schedule may look completely different from when you first signed your agreement. At Johnson O’Keefe, we see these changes firsthand—and know that Chicago families often need to revisit and update […]
Do You Need a Postnuptial Agreement? 5 Life Events That Should Prompt the Conversation
5 Life Events That Should Prompt the Conversation When people get married, they don’t usually plan for things to go wrong. But life changes. And as it does, the way you and your spouse manage money, property, and plans for the future can change too. That’s where a postnuptial agreement comes in. A postnup is […]
What’s the Difference Between Legal Separation and Divorce?
When a marriage is facing challenges, couples often consider various paths to restructure their relationship and their lives. Two common terms that come up are legal separation and divorce. While both involve living apart and resolving marital issues, they are not the same thing. Understanding the fundamental differences between these options is a crucial first […]
Blended Families: Managing Shared Custody With New Partners or Stepchildren
When families change, life at home can feel a little less predictable. You might be starting a new relationship after divorce, or your kids might now have stepsiblings they didn’t grow up with. This is what many call a blended family, and while it can be full of love, it can also bring stress—especially when shared custody is […]
How to Protect Your Finances Before and During a Divorce
Divorce is a complex journey, and the financial aspects can often feel like the most daunting part. The thought of dividing assets, managing debts, and securing your financial future can be overwhelming, especially when navigating emotional challenges. However, taking proactive steps to understand and organize your finances can provide a sense of control and confidence. […]
Is Mediation Right for You? A Closer Look at an Amicable Divorce
Deciding to end a marriage is one of the most significant and personal choices a person can make. The legal process that follows, often seen as a confusing and confrontational journey, can add to the stress of an already difficult time. However, it’s reassuring to know that there are alternatives to traditional courtroom battles. Divorce […]
Grandparents’ Rights: When and How You Can Stay in a Child’s Life After Divorce
When a family goes through a divorce, the focus typically falls on the separating couple and their children. But what about the grandparents? Often overlooked in custody discussions, grandparents can play a deeply meaningful role in a child’s life—providing emotional support, stability, and a vital connection to family history and values. As family dynamics shift after a […]
From Pets to Property: Unusual Things That Come Up in Divorce—and How Courts Handle Them
When people think of divorce, they usually imagine the splitting of homes, bank accounts, and custody of children. But family law attorneys know there’s another layer entirely—one filled with surprising disputes over things most wouldn’t expect to end up on a courtroom docket. From prized pets to rare collectibles, and even digital assets like social media accounts, […]