Northbrook Divorce Lawyer
You’ve reached a pivotal moment in your life. The end of your marriage has arrived, and you’ve made the decision to get a divorce.
In the upcoming months, you’ll face a series of tough choices that will deeply affect various aspects of your life. As the dreams and plans you once shared with your spouse recede into the past, you may grapple with emotions such as heartbreak, anger, and perhaps even resentment. These feelings can interfere with your ability to think clearly and make solid choices, significantly influencing the outcome of your case.
To navigate this journey successfully, you’re going to need an experienced divorce lawyer you can trust. You’ll need someone who can help you stay focused, ensuring that you make the best decisions for yourself, your financial stability, and the well-being of your children.
You need Northbrook divorce lawyer David Silberman on your side.
Do you believe that you have a case? Tell us about it. David will contact you to discuss your rights and provide a free consultation.
Let Silberman Law Group guide you through the legal process, so you can focus on the next stage of your life. Call 312.593.0075.
Why Choose Our Law Firm?
Northbrook Divorce lawyer David Silberman has over 15 years of experience guiding the people of Illinois through their family law matters. He understands how stressful and emotionally charged the dissolution of a marriage can be – especially when children are involved.
David provides compassionate legal representation and advice you can trust to help you achieve your goals. Our law firm can help you with:
- Filing for Divorce
- Child Custody Issues
- Child Support
- Spousal Maintenance
- The Division of Marital Property
- Divorce Decree Modifications
Table of Contents
What to Look for in a Divorce Attorney
Honesty
David delivers honest answers to his clients’ questions, addressing their concerns and guiding them through the legal process as if they were members of his own family.
Sound Legal Advice
David provides direct, sensible, and sound legal advice to help you make informed decisions as your divorce progresses.
Experience
David has more than 15 years of experience in Illinois family law. He has successfully handled some of the most complicated divorce cases in the state.
When facing divorce, one of the most critical decisions you’ll make is selecting the right divorce attorney to protect your best interests and guide you through the legal process. Here are some essential factors to consider when looking for the best divorce attorney in Northbrook.
- Knowledge and Experience:
Seek an attorney with substantial experience in family law and divorce cases. Familiarity with Illinois divorce laws, local courts, and judges can be advantageous.
- Client Reviews and Testimonials:
Read reviews and testimonials from previous clients to gauge the attorney’s reputation and track record. Satisfied clients often provide insights into an attorney’s communication skills, negotiation abilities, and overall effectiveness.
- Compatibility:
Your divorce attorney should be someone with whom you feel comfortable sharing personal information and discussing sensitive matters. A compatible attorney-client relationship fosters open communication, which is crucial in divorce cases.
- Communication Skills:
Effective communication is essential in divorce proceedings. Your attorney should be a skilled communicator who can clearly explain legal concepts, keep you informed of case developments, and promptly respond to your inquiries.
- Legal Strategy:
Discuss the attorney’s approach to divorce cases. Is he or she committed to negotiation and alternative dispute resolution, or do they have a reputation for aggressive litigation? Your attorney’s strategy should align with your goals and priorities for the divorce.
- Availability:
Ensure that the attorney has the time and availability to handle your case effectively. Overburdened attorneys may struggle to give your case the attention it deserves.
- Fees and Billing Structure:
Understand the attorney’s fee structure and how they bill for their services. Clear, transparent fee agreements are essential to avoid financial surprises during the divorce process.
- Track Record of Success:
Inquire about the attorney’s success rate in achieving favorable outcomes for clients in divorce cases. While past results don’t guarantee future success, they can provide insights into the attorney’s capabilities.
- References:
Don’t hesitate to request references from the attorney. Speaking with former clients can give you a better understanding of their experiences and satisfaction with the attorney’s services.
- Local Knowledge:
An attorney who is familiar with the legal communities of Northbrook, Glencoe, Deerfield, Winnetka, and the Northshore may have valuable insights into local court procedures, judges, and opposing counsel.
- Areas of Focus:
Depending on your unique circumstances, you may require an attorney with experience in specific areas of family law, such as high-net-worth divorces, complex property division, child custody, or spousal support.
Schedule a consultation with divorce lawyer
David Silberman. Call 312.593.0075.
What Our Clients Are Saying
Divorce in Illinois: Your Comprehensive Guide
Divorce is a multifaceted legal process that involves various aspects, each requiring careful consideration and negotiation. In Illinois, divorce encompasses a range of issues that must be addressed to achieve a fair and equitable dissolution of a marriage. Key aspects of divorce in Illinois include, but are not limited to, maintenance (alimony), prenuptial and postnuptial agreements, post-decree appeals, property division, retirement, life insurance, QDROs and QILDROs, debt division, personal property, companion animals (pets), litigation and appeals, and health insurance and COBRA. If children are involved, parenting time and the allocation of parental responsibilities almost always take precedence.
Parenting Time and the Allocation of Parental Responsibilities
In Illinois, divorce involves the determination of parenting time and the allocation of parental responsibilities (formerly known as child custody). These decisions are made with the child’s best interests in mind and consider factors such as each parent’s involvement, stability, and ability to provide for the child’s physical, emotional, and educational needs.
Maintenance (Alimony or Spousal Support)
Maintenance, commonly known as alimony or spousal support, may be awarded to one spouse to provide financial support to the other after divorce. In Illinois, the court considers various factors, including each party’s financial needs, income, and the duration of the marriage, when determining maintenance awards. Maintenance can be temporary, rehabilitative, or permanent, and it aims to help the recipient spouse maintain a similar standard of living post-divorce.
Prenuptial and Postnuptial Agreements
Prenuptial and postnuptial agreements are legal contracts that outline the financial rights and responsibilities of spouses in the event of divorce or death. Prenuptial agreements are signed before marriage, while postnuptial agreements are executed after marriage. These agreements can address property division, spousal support, and other financial matters, allowing couples to have more control over their divorce proceedings.
Property Division
Illinois employs an equitable distribution approach to property division. Marital assets and debts are divided fairly, but not necessarily equally. Marital property typically includes assets acquired during the marriage, while non-marital property remains with the respective owner. Factors such as each spouse’s financial contributions, future needs, and the duration of the marriage influence the distribution.
Retirement
Retirement accounts and pensions acquired during the marriage are generally considered marital property, subject to division in a divorce. Since Illinois follows an equitable distribution model, retirement assets are divided fairly, but not necessarily equally. Qualified Domestic Relations Orders (QDROs) may be necessary. QDROs and QILDROs are legal orders used to divide retirement accounts and pensions between divorcing spouses. A QDRO is a federal order, while a QILDRO is specific to Illinois. These orders ensure that retirement benefits are distributed as specified in the divorce decree.
Debt Division
Debt acquired during the marriage is subject to division, just like marital assets. The court considers factors such as the purpose of the debt and each spouse’s ability to pay when determining how to allocate marital debt.
Personal Property
Personal property, such as furniture, vehicles, and household items, is also subject to division in divorce. Couples must agree on the division of personal property or seek court intervention if a resolution cannot be reached.
Companion Animals (Pets)
In Illinois, companion animals are considered personal property, and the court treats them as such in divorce cases. However, couples may negotiate and include specific arrangements for pet custody and care in their divorce settlement.
Litigation, Trial, and Appeals
Divorce cases can be resolved through negotiation, mediation, or litigation in court. If an agreement cannot be reached, the case may go to trial, where both parties present their arguments and evidence. Appeals are possible if either party believes there were errors in the trial process or legal rulings.
Health Insurance / COBRA
Divorce often leads to changes in health insurance coverage. The non-insured spouse may be eligible for continued coverage through the Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act (COBRA). Understanding health insurance options and addressing coverage issues is crucial during divorce proceedings.
Life Insurance
Life insurance policies can play a role in divorce, especially when one spouse relies on the other for financial support or child support. Policies may need to be modified or maintained to ensure continued coverage in the event of one party’s death. Life insurance can secure financial support for children and the recipient spouse.
Considering Divorce? Here’s What to Do Next
Making the decision to pursue a divorce is one of the most significant choices you can make. As you reach this crossroads, it can be challenging to sort through everything that’s happening and make important decisions about your future – especially if you’re ending a particularly stressful relationship, or you’re a survivor of domestic violence. Divorce lawyer David Silberman understands the turmoil you’re facing as you approach this turning point. Our law firm will guide you through the legal process, help you make decisions that will significantly impact your future, and provide you with the support you need as you continue on your journey to the next phase of your life. In the meantime, if you’re considering divorce in Illinois, here’s what to do next.
Self-Reflection
Start by reflecting on your reasons for considering divorce. Are the issues in your marriage irreparable? Have you tried to resolve your differences through counseling or other means? Self-reflection helps you clarify your motivations and whether divorce is the best course of action.
Consult Divorce Attorney David Silberman
Even if you’re only contemplating divorce, consulting with an experienced family law attorney can provide valuable insights. David Silberman will explain your legal rights, discuss potential outcomes, and help you understand what to expect during the divorce process. This knowledge can empower you to make informed decisions.
Financial Assessment
Take stock of your financial situation. Collect financial documents, such as bank statements, tax returns, and records of assets and debts. Understanding your financial standing will be crucial during property division negotiations.
Consider Your Children
If you have children, their well-being should be a top priority. Think about how divorce will impact them and what arrangements would be in their best interests regarding custody and visitation. Focus on maintaining a healthy co-parenting relationship.
Develop a Support System
Divorce is emotionally taxing. Reach out to friends, family, or support groups for emotional support. A strong support system can help you navigate the emotional challenges that come with divorce.
Review Your Options
Understand the different divorce processes available, such as mediation, collaborative divorce, or traditional litigation. Each has its pros and cons. Mediation and collaborative divorce, for instance, promote cooperation and can be less adversarial than litigation.
Protect Your Digital Presence
In the digital age, safeguarding your online privacy is essential. Change passwords, secure personal documents, and be cautious about what you share on social media. Digital footprints can play a role in divorce proceedings.
Assess Your Living Situation
Consider your housing arrangements. Will one spouse move out of the marital home, or will you continue living together during the divorce process? Determine what makes the most sense for your situation.
Plan for the Future
Begin envisioning your post-divorce life. What are your goals, both short-term and long-term? Preparing for your future can help you focus on your own well-being and the well-being of any children.
Remember that divorce is a significant life transition, and it’s okay to seek professional help and guidance during this process. Whether you decide to move forward with the divorce or explore alternatives like legal separation, taking thoughtful and well-informed steps can make the process more manageable and less emotionally overwhelming. Prioritize your own well-being and the well-being of any children involved as you navigate this difficult time.
What Our Clients Are Saying