Rutherford Law P.C.

Rutherford Law P.C. Divorce & Family Lawyer

Technology never ceases to impress, and modern tools have proven invaluable for those navigating divorce and child custo...
09/26/2024

Technology never ceases to impress, and modern tools have proven invaluable for those navigating divorce and child custody challenges, particularly when managing visitation or parenting time. Each of these apps offers distinctive features that can be tailored to address your specific co-parenting needs. Here are our top picks for 2024:





Let’s explore some items that are typically classified as marital versus non-marital property in Illinois. Marital prope...
09/24/2024

Let’s explore some items that are typically classified as marital versus non-marital property in Illinois. Marital property generally includes assets acquired during the marriage, while non-marital property encompasses assets acquired before the marriage or through inheritance. Understanding these distinctions can be essential for dividing property in a divorce.

While an adoption attorney may not always be necessary in Illinois, their assistance can be invaluable. The adoption pro...
09/19/2024

While an adoption attorney may not always be necessary in Illinois, their assistance can be invaluable. The adoption process involves complex laws, detailed documentation, and numerous steps that can be difficult to navigate on your own.

If you are considering adoption and would like to get legal advice, DM, call, or email me today to set up a consult!

Here’s a brief look at some often-overlooked steps in the divorce process:1. Evaluate Your Digital Footprint - Review an...
09/17/2024

Here’s a brief look at some often-overlooked steps in the divorce process:

1. Evaluate Your Digital Footprint - Review and secure your online accounts, including social media and email. Consider updating passwords and be mindful of how your online presence might impact the proceedings.

2. Understand the Tax Implications - Divorce can have significant tax consequences, such as changes to filing status, deductions, and division of assets. Consult with a tax professional to understand how your divorce will affect your taxes.

3. Review Your Insurance Policies - Assess how your divorce might impact your insurance coverage, including health, life, and auto insurance. Ensure you and your dependents are properly covered and update beneficiaries as needed.

4. Plan for Emotional Support - The emotional toll of divorce can be significant. Consider seeking support from a therapist or counselor to help navigate the emotional aspects of the process and maintain your well-being.

5. Consider Temporary Arrangements - Think about and document any temporary arrangements you may need, such as living arrangements, temporary custody of children, or interim financial support, until the final divorce decree is issued.

We understand that seeking support during a divorce can feel challenging, but we encourage you to take this step. Findin...
09/12/2024

We understand that seeking support during a divorce can feel challenging, but we encourage you to take this step. Finding the right support during your divorce, especially if you lack a close-knit community, can significantly benefit your mental and emotional well-being. While divorce is undeniably tough, having the support of others can make the process much more manageable.

Let us know how many you got right in the comments below!
09/10/2024

Let us know how many you got right in the comments below!

While many people think of divorce proceedings as happening in a courtroom, the process can actually unfold in various s...
09/05/2024

While many people think of divorce proceedings as happening in a courtroom, the process can actually unfold in various settings depending on your case. In addition to courtrooms, you might engage in discussions at your or your spouse’s lawyer's office, in mediation venues, or even through virtual court and meeting rooms.

09/03/2024

Not sure where to begin with your parenting schedule? Many parents seek a 50/50 arrangement, offering a balanced distribution of time and a structure that's relatively easy to manage.

A typical 50/50 schedule might include:

Week-to-Week Rotation: The child spends one week with each parent, alternating weekly.

2-2-3 Schedule: The child spends two days with one parent, two days with the other, and then three days with the first parent, rotating every week.

The exact schedule can vary depending on the family's circumstances and the child's best interests. Courts aim to create a plan that works best for the child and accommodates both parents' availability and involvement.

08/28/2024

Considering the financial impact of divorce before filing is crucial. You should evaluate your financial situation, the nature of your relationship, and the support you have from your network.

Although maintenance (formerly known as alimony) may be awarded during the divorce process, you will still need to manage your personal and legal expenses. Having a job, even temporarily, can help alleviate additional financial stress.

Here are the basic steps for an Illinois case involving the allocation of parental responsibilities and parenting time w...
08/21/2024

Here are the basic steps for an Illinois case involving the allocation of parental responsibilities and parenting time when the parties are not married:

File a Petition: One parent files a Petition for Allocation of Parental Responsibilities and/or Parenting Time with the court.

Serve the Petition: The petitioner serves the other parent with the petition and a summons to notify them of the case.

Respond to the Petition: The other parent files a response to the petition, outlining their position on parental responsibilities and parenting time.

Attend Mediation: Both parents may be required to attend mediation to try to reach an agreement on parental responsibilities and parenting time.

Exchange Information: Both parents exchange relevant information, including financial documents and any other necessary information, to support their case.

Negotiate a Settlement: Parents attempt to negotiate a settlement agreement on parental responsibilities and parenting time, potentially with the help of their attorneys.

Court Hearing: If an agreement is not reached, the case proceeds to a court hearing where a judge will make decisions based on the evidence presented.

Obtain Final Order: The court enters a final order detailing the allocation of parental responsibilities and parenting time, which becomes legally binding.

While each case may have its unique aspects, the fundamental steps in the process generally remain consistent. The most important thing you can do is ensure you have an experienced attorney by your side who understands both your specific situation and the court system, ready to guide you through every step of the process.

Can every timeline look different? Absolutely.But understanding the general structure can guide you as you navigate the ...
08/20/2024

Can every timeline look different? Absolutely.

But understanding the general structure can guide you as you navigate the process.

Have questions about how your unique situation might affect your timeline? Feel free to reach out via DM or email - I'm here to help.

Ultimately, in custody cases, your goal is to demonstrate that you are a fit and proper person to be allocated parental ...
08/15/2024

Ultimately, in custody cases, your goal is to demonstrate that you are a fit and proper person to be allocated parental responsibilities. While recreational drug use might not automatically lead to a negative outcome, it can still weaken your case.

Address

33 N Dearborn Street , Ste. 400
Chicago, IL
60602

Opening Hours

Monday 9am - 6pm
Tuesday 9am - 6pm
Wednesday 9am - 6pm
Thursday 9am - 6pm
Friday 9am - 6pm

Telephone

+13128787867

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Our Mission

Rutherford Law P.C. is a child-and-family focused law firm dedicated to providing quality, accessible, and affordable legal representation for all Chicagoland families.

Our practice areas include:


  • Adoption

  • Minor and Adult Guardianship