Families turn to adoption for a number of reasons. Some are unable to have their own children. Others already have children of their own but want to open their home to others in need. Still some may have stepchildren who they wish to legally adopt. Whatever the situation, adoption can be a beautiful and rewarding way to start or grow a family. If you are thinking about adoption but do not know where to start, the following can help you understand your options for adoption in Illinois.

When a couple has a child together – be they married or not – both parents are legally obligated to provide financial support. Child support orders are the legal manifestation of that obligation, and they outline how much should be paid (generally on a monthly basis). Yet, often, these orders are set up when a child is young, or when a couple first divorces. What happens when life circumstances change?

Most couples have complex and intertwined assets that can be difficult to separate in divorce, but those who co-own a business have an especially trying process ahead. If either or both parties also wish to protect the business and keep it running, there is yet another layer of complexity added to this issue. If you are filing for divorce, have a joint business, and wish to protect it in divorce, the following information can help.

Although a divorce does, in effect, separate the family, it does not sever the tie between parents and child. Even in different homes, different cities, or different states, those familial bonds remain. More than that, a child's happiness and overall well-being often hinges on the continuance of a healthy and stable relationship with each parent. So, in most instances, life after divorce means learning how to successfully co-parent in a way that minimizes conflict but still ensures the child feels loved, valued, and connected to each parent. Not sure how to pave this path or where to …