Divorcing a narcissist can be an incredibly challenging and emotionally draining process. It is important to recognize the signs that you are divorcing a narcissist to navigate the complexities of the situation better and protect yourself. While only a professional can diagnose narcissistic personality disorder, there are important signs to look out for, which can serve as a warning that your spouse is a narcissist. Regardless of whether your spouse has a narcissistic personality, contact a lawyer to obtain the legal protection you need moving forward in your divorce.

Look for These Important Signs

One significant sign is the narcissists’ refusal to accept accountability or take responsibility for their actions. They may deflect blame onto you or others, making it challenging to have productive discussions or reach mutually beneficial agreements. They may also manipulate the narrative to portray themselves as a target, seeking sympathy and support. Another sign is their need for control and power. Narcissists often feel threatened by losing control, especially in a divorce situation. They may use various tactics to maintain control, such as withholding information, making one-sided decisions, or attempting to manipulate the legal process. 

Narcissists also tend to exhibit high levels of hostility and aggression during the divorce process. They may use intimidation tactics, threats, or verbal abuse to assert dominance and gain an upper hand. This can make negotiations challenging and increase stress levels. Furthermore, narcissists may engage in manipulative behavior to undermine your credibility and paint themselves in a positive light. They may spread false rumors or make baseless accusations to tarnish your reputation and gain an advantage in Illinois divorce proceedings or child custody battles. 

Additional Red Flags to Look Out For 

Lack of empathy and disregard for the emotional well-being of others is also a major red flag. Narcissists often prioritize their own needs and desires, disregarding the impact their actions have on others. They may show little concern for your feelings or attempt to exploit your vulnerabilities during the divorce process. Narcissists may use financial control as a means of power and manipulation. They may hide assets, refuse to disclose financial information, or use money as a weapon to gain leverage or punish you. It is important to be vigilant and seek legal advice to protect your financial interests. 

Contact a Joliet, IL Divorce Lawyer 

For legal guidance in divorcing a narcissist, contact the skilled Plainfield, IL divorce attorneys with Law Offices of Tedone and Morton, P.C.. Call 815-666-1285 for a free consultation.

Prenuptial agreements (prenup) are legal documents that couples enter into before marriage to establish property and financial rights in the event of divorce or death. While these agreements provide flexibility and protection, certain provisions are not enforceable. If you are getting married and are interested in signing a prenup, it is crucial to understand what cannot be included in the agreement to ensure its validity and fairness. If you are interested in creating a prenup, contact an Illinois lawyer to help begin the process of crafting the agreement in a legally binding manner. 

What is Prohibited from Prenups?

Here is what you cannot include in a prenup:

• Illegal provisions – Any provisions in a prenuptial agreement that violate the law are unenforceable. This includes clauses that encourage illegal activities, promote fraud, or undermine public policy. For example, agreements that attempt to limit child support obligations or waive parental rights will be deemed unenforceable by the court. 

• Non-financial matters – Prenups primarily focus on financial matters, such as property division, debt division, and spousal support. Matters unrelated to finances, such as custody arrangements or personal behavior clauses, cannot be included in a prenup. These issues are typically addressed separately through child custody agreements or court orders, as the child’s best interests take precedence.

• Unfair provisions – Provisions that are deemed grossly unfair or one-sided may render the entire prenup unenforceable. Courts may invalidate agreements that leave one spouse destitute or significantly disadvantaged. Therefore, the terms of the agreement must be fair and reasonable at the time of signing. 

• Lack of a complete disclosure – For a prenup to be valid, both parties must provide a complete financial disclosure. Failing to accurately disclose assets, debts, or income can undermine the agreement’s enforceability. If one party can prove that the other party concealed or misrepresented financial information, the court may set aside the prenuptial agreement. 

• Consideration of public assistance – Prenuptial agreements cannot include provisions that waive or limit a spouse’s right to public assistance. Individuals have a right to seek government aid if they meet the eligibility criteria, and a prenuptial agreement cannot impede this right.

Contact a Joliet, IL Prenuptial Agreement Lawyer 

While prenups offer couples flexibility and protection, there are limitations on what can be included. Consulting with a knowledgeable family law attorney is essential to ensure your prenup is comprehensive, fair, and legally valid. Contact the experienced Plainfield, IL prenuptial agreement attorneys with Law Offices of Tedone and Morton, P.C. for legal representation in creating your prenup. Call 815-666-1285 for a free consultation.

Determining paternity is an important legal step, as it establishes the rights and responsibilities of a child’s biological father. In Illinois, two primary methods exist to establish parentage: a form referred to as the voluntary acknowledgment of paternity document (VAP) and DNA testing. Today, we will provide an overview of these options, enabling you to make an informed decision regarding how to best establish parentage in your situation. Contact a family law attorney for legal representation in your paternity matter to obtain the legal guidance you need.

What to Know About the Paternity Form

The VAP  form is a legal document that allows both parents to acknowledge the biological father of a child without the need for a DNA paternity test. It is typically completed at the time of the child’s birth or soon after. This form is a legally binding document that establishes paternity and once signed, it carries significant weight in court. 

Advantages of the VAP Form of Determining Parentage

• Efficiency – Signing the VAP form can be a straightforward and speedy process. It avoids the delays often associated with DNA testing. 

• Simplicity – The form is a simple and convenient way to assert your parental rights. It can be completed easily without the need for complex procedures. 

• Cost-effective – Opting for this form may be less expensive than DNA testing, as it eliminates the need for laboratory fees and court appearances.

What to Know About DNA Testing

This is the scientific method used to establish biological parentage with high accuracy. It involves comparing the DNA samples of the child, the alleged father, and sometimes the mother to determine paternity. In Illinois, genetic testing is typically done through a court-approved facility or laboratory. 

Advantages of DNA Testing

• Accurate results – DNA tests have a high degree of reliability and can provide a conclusive answer regarding paternity.

• Legal validity – DNA test results carry substantial weight in court. They can help resolve disputes, establish child support obligations, and determine parental rights.

• Comprehensive evidence – DNA testing can be particularly helpful if there is any doubt about the biological father’s identity. It can provide concrete evidence and eliminate uncertainty. 

Contact a Joliet, IL Paternity Attorney

The decision between pursuing a voluntary acknowledgment of paternity form or DNA testing depends on your specific circumstances and goals. If both parties involved have no doubt about paternity and are willing to cooperate, the voluntary acknowledgment form can be a quick and convenient solution. However, if there is any uncertainty or disputes regarding paternity, DNA testing is recommended for reliable and legally recognizable evidence. Contact the Will County paternity lawyers with Law Offices of Tedone and Morton, P.C. for legal assistance in this important matter. Call 815-666-1285 for a free consultation. 

Source - https://dph.illinois.gov/topics-services/birth-death-other-records/birth-records/paternity.html

Divorce can be an emotionally challenging time, and it is essential to consider all aspects, including financial matters. In some cases, one spouse may attempt to conceal assets to gain an unfair advantage during the divorce proceedings. Recognizing signs of such behavior is crucial to protecting your rights and ensuring a fair division of marital property. Today, we will discuss some common signs that could indicate your spouse is concealing assets during your Illinois divorce. If you suspect your spouse is hiding assets from you, share this concern with your divorce lawyer so that steps can be taken to ensure your assets are protected and that an equitable distribution of property can be successfully attained. 

Sudden Changes in Financial Behavior

It could be a red flag if your spouse starts exhibiting unusual financial behavior, such as secretiveness about income, expenses, or investments. Look for sudden changes in their spending habits, unexplained expenses, or hidden accounts you were unaware of. Drastic alterations in financial behavior may indicate an attempt to hide assets. 

Lack of Cooperation or Unwillingness to Disclose

Transparency is critical during the divorce process, particularly regarding finances. If your spouse becomes uncooperative or insists on not disclosing necessary financial documents, it may be a sign of asset concealment. Watch out for missing or incomplete records, such as unreported income, hidden bank accounts, or undisclosed assets. 

Inconsistencies in Financial Statements

Carefully examine financial statements, including tax returns, bank statements, investment reports, and business records. It raises suspicions of hidden assets if you notice inconsistencies or discrepancies between these documents and what your spouse has disclosed. Discrepancies could include unexplained tax deductions, undisclosed investments, or disparities in reported income. 

Unexplained Reduction in Income

If your spouse conveniently experiences a sudden decrease in income, it could be an attempt to manipulate the divorce settlement. Claiming financial hardships or taking a lower-paying job without genuine justification may be an effort to conceal more assets. 

Overvaluation or Undervaluation of Assets

Another common tactic is to overvalue or undervalue assets during divorce proceedings purposely. This could involve inflating debts or devaluing stocks, real estate, or business interests. Partnering with forensic accountants or other financial professionals can help uncover accurate valuations and expose dishonest practices. 

Contact a Plainfield, IL Divorce Lawyer 

Do not let your spouse get away with concealing assets. Inform your attorney immediately if you suspect they are engaging in this unethical practice. Contact the skilled Will County divorce attorneys with Law Offices of Tedone and Morton, P.C. for the best legal assistance in dissolving your marriage. Call 815-666-1285 for a free consultation. 

Source - https://www.ilga.gov/legislation/ilcs/documents/075000050k503.htm

Child support is a critical aspect of divorce and separation cases as it ensures the financial well-being of a child after her parents break up. Each state has its own set of guidelines for calculating child support, and in the state of Illinois, the “income shares method” is used. 

Understanding key aspects of this method is crucial for both parents. In this blog, we will delve into the most important things to know about the income shares method and how it affects child support calculations in Illinois. For matters relating to this important issue, contact an experienced family law attorney to be your guide through this process and other important parts of your divorce.

Definition and Purpose of the Income Shares Method 

The income shares method is designed to estimate the amount of money that would have been available to support a child if her parents had continued living together. It assumes that both parents share financial responsibilities for a child, and that their incomes should be combined and allocated to support the child’s needs after the divorce. Each parent pays their fair share of child support, depending on how much money they make. 

Elements Considered in the Calculation  

When determining child support using the income shares method, courts take into account several factors. This includes the pre-tax income of both parents, such as wages, salary, bonuses, pensions, and other sources of income. It also considers the costs of child health insurance, childcare, and education expenses. 

Shared Parenting

Illinois law recognizes the importance of shared parental responsibilities, and the income shares method reflects this. Child support calculations are influenced by the amount of time a child spends with each parent. The more time a parent is responsible for a child, the less likely they are to make significant child support payments. 

Pre-Existing Child Support Obligations 

If either parent already pays child support for children from a previous relationship, it affects calculations under the income-shares method. Any child support already being paid is taken into account when determining the child support obligations in a present case. 

Deviation from Guideline Amounts

While the income-shares method establishes a formula for child support calculations, courts have the authority to deviate from the guideline amounts under certain circumstances. These deviations may occur if special needs of the child exist, or if parents have shared custody of the child resulting in more equal financial responsibilities. 

Change in Financial Circumstances

The income-shares method takes into consideration that the financial circumstances of either parent may change over time. This means that child support orders can be modified, but only if a substantial change in circumstances is proven. 

Contact a Will County Family Law Attorney

To ensure your rights are respected, contact the Joliet family lawyers with Law Offices of Tedone and Morton, P.C.. Call 815-666-1285 for a free consultation. 

Source - https://hfs.illinois.gov/childsupport/about/advisorycommittee/faqs.html