Divorce & Family Lawyer

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As of 2016, Illinois became a no-fault divorce state. This means that spouses who decide to terminate their marriages are no longer required to prove that one or the other was at fault for the marriage’s failure. Rather, the parties only need to demonstrate that “irreconcilable differences” have led to a permanent breakdown of the marriage. To meet the burden of “irreconcilable differences”, couples must live apart from one another for at least six months. Even after meeting the six month threshold, divorcing couples are still faced with complex issues such as spousal maintenance, property division, the handling of prior debts and if the parties have children, child support and parenting time. 

If you and your spouse can resolve your divorce amicably, an uncontested divorce may be the correct option for you. An uncontested divorce is when neither party will be opposing any details of the dissolution of marriage. This is often a cost-saving method that allows couples to end their marriage amicably and efficiently. On the other hand, if you and your spouse are unable to agree on most things, you may be facing a contested divorce. A contested divorce is an adversarial process that is oftentimes costly for both parties, time consuming and emotional for parents and kids. Dealing with any divorce is challenging so finding the right family lawyer for you is imperative to ensure that you are protected for the next chapter of your life. Divorce Attorney Debbie Cohen fights to protect your best interests and combines her experience with care, skill and compassion to all matters.  Contact Wheeling Divorce and Family Lawyer Debbie Cohen today to discuss your divorce in a confidential and safe environment.

Raising children is costly. Child support laws exist so that single parents can adequately provide for their children. Both parents must support their children regardless if they are married, separated or divorced. Although parents can enter into a child support agreement, the agreement must meet the guidelines set by Illinois law and receive court approval. Illinois has specific rules for calculating the financial responsibilities of single, separated, or divorced parents. 

Prior to July 2017, Illinois courts used a "percentage based" formula for child support. However, in July 2017, Illinois changed its child support formula from a percentage based to an “income share model”. The updated formula mandates that both parents are responsible for their own share of raising their children. The "income shares model" considers both parents' incomes in addition to calculation of how much the parents would typically spend on their children if they would have remained living together with shared finances. However, there are times when the guideline levels of child support are not appropriate or where income and/or assets may be hidden by a spouse. Cohen Law has the experience and skills needed to help you with your child support matters. Contact Wheeling Divorce and Family Lawyer Debbie Cohen today to discuss your child support issue in a confidential and safe environment.

Ms. Cohen understands the emotional and financial stress involved when entering a marriage, terminating a marriage, and/or determining child support, custody and visitation.  Whether you’re needing a prenup or postnup, filing for divorce or separation, or needing guidance with child support issues, Ms. Cohen is here to help you. Divorce and Family Lawyer Debbie Cohen will provide you with the knowledge, support and compassion you need in order to make the best decisions for yourself and your children and she will fight for you.