If you are interested in adopting a child from outside of the United States, it is important for you to be aware of the Hague Convention on the Protection of Children and Co-operation in Respect of Intercountry Adoption (Hague Convention). The Hague Convention made some significant changes to the requirements in international adoptions. While these changes increased the protections for those involved in adoptions, it also increased the time international adoptions take to complete. The following examines the requirements placed on adoption service providers under the Hague Convention.

On January 1, 2016, significant changes will go into effect in Illinois under the Illinois Marriage and Dissolution of Marriage Act (IMDMA). Specifically, changes will be made to child custody and visitation. Therefore, it is important to be aware of these changes as 2016 begins.

Among the issues to resolve in some divorce cases is the division of antiques, collectibles, or other unique items. Although this type of property is commonly at issue in high net worth divorces, antiques and collectibles may be a part of any divorce. In addition to having significant monetary value, these items often have sentimental value. Because of this, it can make dividing this property very difficult, particularly in contentious divorces.

If you are interested in adopting a child, it is important to know that there are several types of adoptions available. Understanding the different adoption alternatives can help prospective adoptive parents determine which form is best for them.