How Coronavirus can Impact Your Illinois Divorce

How Coronavirus can Impact Your Illinois Divorce

No matter whether you have already started the divorce process or are considering filing for divorce at some point this year, there is little doubt that the current COVID-19 pandemic will impact how legal matters are handled. Aside from obvious closures now and in the future, it is important to understand how the coronavirus may affect your divorce. This is one reason that retaining an experienced Rolling Meadows divorce attorney is important.

At SAM LAW OFFICE LLC, we have years of helping Illinois clients with all of their family law needs. As changes happen, we will be the ones who will help you and ensure that your case stays on track. Contact us today to schedule a consultation to learn more about how we can assist you with your Illinois divorce. 

Filing Process and Court Hearings

With a nationwide shut down in place, in-person appearances have been reduced or even canceled entirely. Some courts are opting to start e-filing more and are allowing parties to attend court via video conferences. There is always the chance that some of these changes may be instituted as part of the regular process as time goes on.

ADR, or Alternative Dispute Resolution, may become a more popular option for divorces. Collaborative Divorce is an ADR option that does not rely on the court system. This is one option to reach an agreement in your divorce without involving court hearings. In fact, you will have a team of professionals who will help you and your spouse finalize all outstanding issues in your divorce. This is a private process that remains fully confidential. Collaborative divorce can also help couples preserve a cordial relationship after the divorce that helps you co-parent together. 

Alimony Awards

When deciding whether alimony is to be awarded, the court looks at a number of factors. With the current state of the economy, it can dramatically affect alimony awards, both now and in the future. If alimony was previously awarded, it might need to be amended now. One spouse may need to petition the court as they lost their job and now cannot keep up with alimony payments. Going forward, determining future earning capacity may be difficult without knowing what industries will rebound the quickest.

Co-Parenting During a Pandemic

Even while stay-at-home orders have been in place, you still have to follow official court orders. However, it is also important to be flexible with your ex-spouse. We are living in unprecedented times. Kids are home from school, and school may not resume anytime soon. This means you may need to change schedules around, especially if one of you has been laid off.

If you and your ex both have the legal authority to make medical and healthcare decisions for your child, you may be forced to make difficult decisions. These decisions can include whether or not to have your child tested for COVID-19 or to have a vaccine when one is available. What will you do if one of you becomes ill? 

Contact an Illinois Family Law Attorney 

There are numerous other ways that the current pandemic could affect your divorce down the line. Do not attempt to handle this on your own. Contact SAM LAW OFFICE LLC today to schedule an initial consultation.