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Kipnis & Kahn LTD

Family Law

Compassionate Legal Support for Your Family Matters

Family law encompasses a range of legal issues that impact family relationships and dynamics. Whether you’re navigating the complexities of divorce, seeking child custody arrangements, or handling other sensitive family matters, having a knowledgeable and compassionate family law attorney in Chicago by your side can make a significant difference. With extensive experience in family law, we are dedicated to providing personalized support and strategic legal solutions to help you achieve the best possible outcome for your family.

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What Family Law Covers

Family law addresses legal matters that affect family relationships, including marriage, divorce, child custody, and more. It seeks to resolve disputes in a way that prioritizes the well-being of all family members, particularly children. Navigating these situations requires not only legal expertise but also empathy and understanding. As your trusted family law attorneys in Chicago, we are committed to offering comprehensive legal support through every stage of your family law issue, ensuring that your rights and interests are protected.

Guiding You Through Every Step of the Divorce Process

Divorce involves the legal dissolution of a marriage, including dividing assets, determining alimony, and resolving custody issues. The process can be complex, especially when there are significant assets, debts, or children involved. It’s crucial to understand your rights and responsibilities throughout the divorce proceedings.



How We Help:


  • Asset and Debt Division: We work to ensure that marital assets and debts are divided fairly and equitably, considering your contributions and needs.
  • Child Custody and Support: We help negotiate custody arrangements and child support terms that serve the best interests of your children, aiming for a fair and workable agreement.
  • Alimony and Spousal Support: We advocate for fair spousal support arrangements, considering factors such as your financial situation, contributions to the marriage, and future needs.

Common Questions:


  • What are the grounds for divorce, and how do they affect the process? Grounds for divorce vary by jurisdiction and can include irreconcilable differences, adultery, or abandonment. We guide you through the process and prepare all necessary documentation.
  • How is child custody determined in a divorce? Custody decisions are based on the best interests of the child, considering factors such as each parent’s living situation and involvement. We help present a strong case for a custody arrangement that benefits your child.
  • What is the process for dividing marital assets and debts? Marital assets and debts are typically divided based on equitable distribution principles. We assist in identifying and valuing assets to negotiate a fair division.

Ensuring Fair and Balanced Custody and Support Arrangements

Child custody determines where and with whom a child will live, while child support involves financial contributions from one parent to help with the child’s expenses. Custody arrangements and support obligations are established based on the child’s best interests.


How We Help:


  • Custody Evaluation: We work with you to develop a custody plan that considers your child’s needs and represent your interests in custody evaluations.
  • Support Calculations: We help determine appropriate child support amounts based on income, expenses, and the child’s needs, ensuring compliance with legal guidelines.
  • Modification and Enforcement: If circumstances change, we assist in modifying custody and support agreements and enforcing existing orders.

Common Questions:


  • How is child custody decided if parents cannot agree? When parents cannot agree, the court makes a determination based on factors such as the child’s best interests and each parent’s relationship with the child. We help you prepare and present your case effectively.
  • What factors are considered when calculating child support? Child support calculations consider both parents’ incomes, the child’s needs, and any special circumstances. We ensure the calculation is fair and reflects your financial situation.
  • Can custody and support arrangements be changed? Yes, they can be modified if there are significant changes in circumstances. We assist in filing for modifications and represent you in court.

Securing Fair Spousal Support Arrangements

Spousal support, or alimony, is financial assistance provided by one spouse to the other after a divorce. The amount and duration depend on factors such as the length of the marriage, the recipient spouse’s needs, and the paying spouse’s ability to contribute.



How We Help:


  • Assessment of Needs and Ability: We assess both spouses' financial situations to determine a fair alimony amount and duration.
  • Negotiation and Mediation: We negotiate with your spouse or their attorney to reach a fair spousal support agreement and represent you in mediation if necessary.
  • Legal Representation: If an agreement cannot be reached, we represent you in court to advocate for a fair spousal support order.

Common Questions:


  • How is spousal support determined in a divorce? Spousal support is determined based on factors such as the length of the marriage, financial situations, and contributions to the marriage. We gather evidence and advocate for a fair arrangement.
  • Can spousal support be modified or terminated? Yes, spousal support can be modified or terminated if there are significant changes in circumstances, such as changes in income. We assist with modifications as needed.
  • How long does spousal support typically last? The duration varies based on factors like the marriage length and the recipient’s financial needs. We help negotiate reasonable terms and represent you in court if necessary.

Creating and Enforcing Prenuptial and Postnuptial Agreements

Prenuptial and postnuptial agreements are legal contracts that outline asset and debt division in the event of divorce or death. Prenuptial agreements are made before marriage, while postnuptial agreements are created during marriage.



How We Help:


  • Agreement Drafting: We draft clear and enforceable prenuptial or postnuptial agreements that reflect your needs and protect your interests.
  • Negotiation: We negotiate with your spouse’s attorney to ensure the agreement’s terms are fair and reasonable for both parties.
  • Enforcement: We assist in enforcing the agreement and addressing any disputes that arise, ensuring the terms are upheld.

Common Questions:


  • What should be included in a prenuptial or postnuptial agreement? Agreements should cover asset and debt division, spousal support, and any other relevant financial matters. We help ensure the agreement is comprehensive.
  • Are prenuptial and postnuptial agreements enforceable? Yes, as long as they meet legal requirements. We ensure that your agreement complies with all legal standards.
  • Can these agreements be modified? Yes, with both parties' consent. We assist in drafting amendments and ensuring they are legally effective.

Facilitating Successful Adoptions and Guardianships

Adoption and guardianship are legal processes that establish a parental or caregiving relationship. Adoption is a permanent arrangement, while guardianship is typically temporary.


How We Help:


  • Application and Documentation: We guide you through the application process for adoption or guardianship, ensuring all necessary documentation is prepared and submitted correctly.
  • Court Representation: We represent you in court hearings and proceedings, advocating for your rights and suitability as a parent or guardian.
  • Post-Adoption/Guardianship Support: We provide ongoing support after adoption or guardianship, assisting with any legal or procedural issues that may arise.

Common Questions:


  • What is the process for adopting a child? The adoption process involves background checks, home studies, and court proceedings. We assist you throughout and represent you in court to finalize the adoption.
  • How does guardianship differ from adoption? Guardianship is usually temporary, focusing on the child’s care, while adoption is a permanent legal relationship. We help you choose the right path for your situation.
  • What are the requirements for becoming a guardian? Requirements vary but generally include demonstrating your ability to provide for the child’s needs. We guide you through the requirements and assist with the application process.

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