The law is often viewed as a list of black-and-white rules that can be found in books on a shelf. And sometimes it is that straightforward. Things like the language in petitions, discovery requests and points being argued in court are not always up for debate.
However, when it comes to family law, the approach you take to position yourself favorably in a given case also matters. A multitude of important issues can come up in sensitive cases, from disagreements over asset division to establishing custody of shared children. The outcome can depend on many factors, not least of which is your lawyer’s ability to come up with smart strategies that will benefit your case – and impact your life for years to come.
Strategizing in Illinois Family Law Cases
Strategic thinking can be crucial to the outcome of a case because the terms tend to be legally binding. From negotiating parental rights to conducting financial discovery, a good family law attorney will be able to discuss how best to navigate sensitive issues for their clients in Illinois. Your lawyer may use tried-and-true strategies involving many common family law issues, such as:
- Establishing child custody matters;
- Valuing a closely held businesses;
- Discovering hidden assets;
- Challenging a modification request;
- Estate planning relative to divorce; and
- Finalizing complex financial issues.
However, once a case has been presented, it may not be easy to modify agreed-upon aspects like spousal maintenance and child support payments. Someone who knows the law inside and out will be familiar with the court system. With a partner to guide you through every step of the process, the two parties can create a solid foundation for their family’s future.
Strategies in a Divorce Case
Strategic thinking will help you with just about any difficult aspect of a divorce. Some of the most challenging issues can arise when someone is dealing with a difficult or uncooperative ex. A legal expert may suggest certain approaches that can work to further your ultimate goal. These may extend to advice on:
- What kinds of records to keep;
- How and when to minimize contact with an ex;
- How to protect children throughout the process; and
- When to make concessions on an agreement.
Clients should feel free to ask about aspects of the law that might relate to their situation. As Illinois is a no-fault divorce state, you may be wondering what issues will be off limits in your case. Your lawyer can examine these and other current trends in family law that relate to your case.
Clarifying Your Own Objectives
Sometimes clarifying what your ultimate goals truly are can get overlooked during a challenging time of transition. Not everyone wants the same outcome from their divorce, for instance. That’s why defining your objectives will help you settle on a strategy that is more likely to match your desired outcome.
Once you know what you want, your lawyer will be in a better position to argue your case for you. Say you have strong feelings about where you want to live and raise your child after your divorce, but your ex is focused on something else entirely.Some strategies have to do with knowing when to obtain a temporary order of child support or negotiate a temporary parenting plan. Your lawyer may suggest seeking a judge with a history of granting parenting time who is more likely to favor your requests. Professionals who are familiar with how competing interests can play out in court will be better at compromising to help you achieve your main objectives.
Ask Your Lawyer What Strategies Can Help Your Case
With so much on the line, do not navigate through the legal system alone. Open communication is a vital step in any family law case. Are you ready to discuss what steps will help ensure a desired outcome in your family law case? At the Law Office of David A. King, P.C., we have the resources, tools, and experience to see that your interests are protected.
Contact the Law Office of David A. King, P.C. to schedule a consultation with a family law attorney serving areas throughout DuPage County today. A top-rated family law practitioner will be able to walk you through the legal process and help you determine the best path forward.