Escaping Domestic Abuse

 Posted on February 19, 2014 in Domestic Violence

It’s an uncomfortable topic to discuss, but domestic violence is all around us, and happens more frequently than we would like to think. Domestic violence or abuse exists in all races, age groups, socioeconomic groups, and genders. However, there are ways to escape domestic abuse and find safety.

It’s important to note that getting out of an abusive relationship is not always easy. Both the hope that things will eventually work out and the fear of what the partner will do if the victim tries to leave can be difficult to overcome. Many people in abusive relationships feel trapped and helpless, but there are many resources available to help.

If you do decide to leave your abusive partner, there are a few things you want to make sure to take with you, including, but not limited to, the following:

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Breaking the News of Divorce to the Kids

 Posted on February 14, 2014 in Divorce

You and your spouse have just officially agreed on getting a divorce, now comes the time to plan how you will break the news to your children. Divorce on its own is scary and overwhelming, and that is only magnified by throwing kids into the mix. However, if you prepare efficiently, sitting down and having “the talk” with your kids can go smoothly.

Before sitting down with your kids, don’t be afraid to consult with a child or family therapist for advice on what to say and how to say it. Helping children of divorce can be challenging Sit down with your spouse and write out a script for the conversation you will have with the kids-this will make giving the actual talk much less intimidating. Choose a specific time and place to sit down and break the news-you do not want friends or relatives to be present, and you do not want the talk to conflict with important dates (for example, the night before a big test).

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The Importance of a Business Valuation and an Experienced Family Law Attorney

 Posted on February 11, 2014 in Family Law

Ten years into the marriage, your spouse comes to you tired and cranky and declares that he wants to start his own business. You know you look surprised on the exterior but on the interior your stomach is doing somersaults.

He explains that he is tired of working for someone else and padding the pockets of an unappreciative tyrant. He knows he can be successful in his own adaptation of his career choice. Trying not to hyperventilate you squash your feelings of nausea and try to smile supportively.

He continues to verbalize his business plan while you calculate the monthly budget and balance of each child's college fund in your swirling mind. What were those vows, for better or worse?

You force a smile, provide encouragement and mumble, “ok, partner, let's go for it!”

According to a recent article in Forbes Reinventing America series, employees are now becoming the employers or members of the 1099 society. An increase of 14 percent since 2001.

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Divorce and Minor Children: Illinois Statute for Requesting an Out of State Change of Address

 Posted on February 08, 2014 in Child Custody and Support

The divorce has been finalized, marital assets distributed, continual support negotiated and custody and visitation terms reached. You have adjusted. You may find yourself at ease and looking forward to writing the next chapter. Perhaps you are even considering a change of scenery to turn over a new leaf.

 It may not be that easy. With your divorce decree terms already finalized, the court will determine if you and the kids can start packing.

For those residing in Illinois, Section 609(a) of the Illinois Marriage and Dissolution of Marriage Act (750 ILCS 5), requires petitioning the court for any modification of the original terms of a custody agreement.

While you believe a fresh start will benefit you and the kids, your ex-spouse still retains his or her legal rights when it comes to a new zip code. As the petitioner, you should be aware that:

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Tips for Online Dating

 Posted on February 04, 2014 in Divorce

With the Internet becoming a huge part of our everyday lives, it’s no wonder that the popularity of online dating has increased dramatically over the past few years, especially for those people who have just gone through a divorce and are trying to “get back out there.” While some people may jump at the idea of meeting someone via the Internet, others may feel a bit apprehensive about not going with the old-fashioned way. However, there are many ways you can make your online dating experience stress-free and, hopefully, successful.

When you get started with an online dating website, take the time to make sure your profile is as detailed and representative as it can be. Let people know who you are, while making sure to only give out information you’re comfortable with floating around on the Internet. The most important part of creating your profile is to be yourself. Choose a good photo as your profile picture. Avoid photos that have been excessively edited, and try to find one that’s well-lit, in-focus, and illustrates who you really are. It’s not a bad idea to use a photo of you doing something you love.

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Life after Divorce

 Posted on January 31, 2014 in Divorce

The divorce rate in the United States is growing, and with it, the need to know how to get your life back together after going through the stressful process. While it may seem an ominous feat at the time, getting back on your feet after divorce can be made very simple by following a few simple steps.

To get started, you must face reality: your marriage has ended and it is time for you to start a life for yourself. Complete all of the necessary paperwork quickly so as to finalize the process as soon as possible. Facing reality is the most important step when getting back on your feet. Don’t waste time doubting yourself either. Ask yourself if you were only hanging on to your marriage out of fear. Questions like these can make you face the truth and have an easier time coming to terms with reality.

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Emotional Abuse as Grounds for Illinois Fault Divorce: Taking it One Step at A Time

 Posted on January 27, 2014 in Divorce

Domestic violence often leaves evidence of physical trauma, but yet another form of abuse can cut even deeper. If left unchecked, long-term emotional abuse can lead to feelings of diminished self-worth and loss of independence for the victimized spouse. By achieving these results, the abusive spouse exercises abnormal control.The cycle begins with a simple criticism and then builds. Often the abuser will break the cycle with what appears to be a sincere apology, but both partners soon find themselves caught up in the cycle of verbal abuse once again.

 Denial can also be an underlying factor of years of abuse. If you can truthfully answer yes to any of the following questions, you may have already taken the first step in breaking the cycle of abuse. Be honest, take a few minutes on each question, write down your answers as they pertain to your situation, you may be surprised at your answers.

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Right of First Refusal – What You Need to Know

 Posted on January 23, 2014 in Child Custody and Support

A change to the Illinois Marriage and Dissolution of Marriage Act may mean a big change in child-care options for divorced parents who share joint custody of their children. For some, this change in Illinois family law may mean a significant change in way they schedule their errand days or vacations.

According to Illinois HB 2992, next year parents who are in a joint-custody relationship must notify the other parent of their plans for a day or night out, and offer them the opportunity to care for the child temporarily before seeking third-party care from grandparents, babysitters, or daycare centers. This applies even if the other parent lives farther away than other relatives or babysitters, so long as the distance is not considered impractical. Additionally, should the co-parent choose to accept the additional parenting time, they must provide any necessary transportation, unless other arrangements are agreed upon.

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The Benefits of Prenuptial Agreements

 Posted on January 18, 2014 in Prenuptial and Postnuptial Agreements

Before entering marriage, some couples choose to establish prenuptial agreements. These agreements are written contracts that set out the terms of possession of assets, treatment of future earnings, control of the property of each, and potential division if the marriage later fails. Prenuptial agreements are generally common amongst couples in which both parties have substantial assets, children from a prior marriage, potential inheritances, or high incomes. While not for everybody, prenuptial agreements do offer some potential benefits that are worth taking a look at.

Some of the most basic advantages of prenuptial agreements can include the following:

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Attorney Warlick Awarded by Geneva Lions Club

 Posted on January 17, 2014 in In the News

Attorney Douglas B. Warlick, who is also immediate past president of the Geneva Lions Club was awarded a crystal pin Service Award by the Lions Club International for his “World of Service”.

The World of Service Awards recognize Lions who represent our world of service. Projects and activities that are submitted should exemplify the objects of the association.

Douglas also received a 2nd award on January 13, from the Lions of Illinois Foundation for his achievements in growing the Geneva Lions Club which added 11 new members during his reign as President of the Club.

For more information on Attorney Douglas, call The Law Offices of Douglas B. Warlick & Associates at 630-232-9700.

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