St. Charles

Legal Representation for Spouses and Parents in St. Charles

About 60 percent of the households in St. Charles consist of married couples, and about 35 percent include children who are under 18. The average family size is smaller than in some neighboring cities at 3.1 people, but the city has been named in national lists of the best towns and cities for families. For people who find themselves in a troubled marriage, the thought of consulting a family lawyer may seem daunting. It may be tempting to attempt a do-it-yourself uncontested divorce or participate with a spouse in a collaborative divorce. However, since so much can be at stake during the dissolution of a marriage, it is important to speak to a St. Charles divorce lawyer about your situation. At the law firm of Kollias P.C., we understand the high emotional burdens of a divorce, and we are here to answer your questions and provide you with accurate legal advice specific to your situation.

The Complexities of a Divorce

There are many issues that can potentially turn a “simple” case into a more complex matter. For instance, if one or both spouses are planning a move, there may be special considerations regarding parenting responsibilities, shared parenting, and the potential for relocation with a minor child or children. If the court needs to divide a pension plan, this may require drafting complex property division documents like qualified domestic relations orders (QDROs). If the couple has a special needs child, child support may need to last longer than age 18, which is when it would normally terminate.

Our divorce attorneys also can help St. Charles residents with matters such as an annulment, establishment of paternity, a modification of a previous parental allocation judgment, a modification of child support obligations, establishment of grandparent visitation, and adoption. We also draft pre-nuptial agreements, post-nuptial agreements, and estate planning documents like wills, trusts, living wills, and powers of attorney. Our goal is always to see the “bigger picture” and advise our clients accordingly, knowing that a person who is going through the dissolution of a marriage or dealing with a sensitive issue concerning their children could otherwise jeopardize their future due to the high emotions that often accompany such situations.

The fact is that the decisions that are made during divorce proceedings – either by the parties or by a judge – can affect the spouses and their children for many years to come. Issues like the equitable distribution of property and debt, alimony payments, and the allocation of parental responsibilities can be extremely important. St. Charles is a great place to live, featuring strong schools and affordable housing, but a poorly handled divorce can leave a spouse and children struggling financially for years.

Contact a St. Charles Divorce Attorney to Discuss Your Options

It has been said that “the best offense is a good defense.” In issues concerning divorce, parenting, and the like, this is often true. While a long, expensive court battle over property and kids may be the last thing that a spouse wants to go through, talking to an experienced family law attorney can be helpful even if you are not expecting a bitter, protracted divorce. Instead, knowing your legal rights and understanding the likely outcome of divorce proceedings, as well as potential pitfalls, can be extremely helpful in ending a marriage on the most agreeable terms possible under the circumstances. At Kollias P.C., our legal professionals want the most favorable outcome for each and every client whom we serve. Looking at the larger picture, we see our job as aiding and guiding a family through difficult transitions in life in an effective, efficient way. For a free consultation with a divorce lawyer in St. Charles to discuss your legal situation, call us at (630) 912-8700 or contact us online and set up a time to come in to our office. We look forward to serving you.