Can I handle my case without a lawyer?

Illinois law allows you to represent yourself, but family and personal injury cases are complex. There are strict deadlines, procedures, and rules that can affect your rights. A lawyer who understands Illinois law can help you avoid costly mistakes and guide you through the process.

What should I ask during my first consultation with a lawyer?

Ask about the lawyer’s experience with cases like yours, how they approach these matters, the expected timeline, and their fees. You should also ask how often they will communicate with you and what documents or information they will need from you.

What should I bring to my first meeting?

Bring any documents related to your case, such as financial records, medical bills, insurance papers, court documents, or accident reports. It also helps to bring relevant correspondence from other parties and a written list of questions so your attorney can quickly understand your situation.

How do I know if a lawyer is the right fit for me?

Consider whether the lawyer has experience with your type of case and communicates clearly. During the consultation, notice if they listen carefully, explain things in a way you understand, and show genuine interest in helping you reach your goals.

How will I know what’s happening with my case?

Your lawyer should keep you updated on important developments, upcoming court dates, and anything they need from you. Regular communication builds trust and helps you feel more comfortable and informed throughout the legal process.

How long does it take to get divorced in Illinois?

The time frame depends on your situation. Illinois requires a 90-day waiting period after filing. Uncontested divorces may be finished in about three to six months, while cases with disputes over property, custody, or support can take 12 to 18 months or longer.

How much does divorce cost in Illinois?

Divorce costs vary based on complexity, whether the case is contested or uncontested, and how long it takes to resolve. Filing fees, attorney’s fees, and possible mediation or court costs are all factors. The firm aims for fee transparency and may offer payment options so you can plan ahead.

Why consider mediation or collaborative divorce?

Mediation and collaborative divorce can reduce conflict, lower costs, and give you more control over the outcome. These processes are often faster and more private than going to court and are especially helpful when children are involved because they can preserve relationships and minimize tension.

When should I seek legal help for a family matter?

You should seek legal advice early if you are facing divorce, custody or parenting time disputes, support modifications, or domestic violence issues. Getting guidance sooner can help you understand your options, prevent complications, and work toward the best possible result.

Why shouldn’t I take the first settlement offer?

Insurance companies often make quick, low settlement offers before you fully know the extent of your injuries or losses. These offers rarely reflect the true value of your claim. An attorney can evaluate your damages, including medical bills, lost income, and pain and suffering, to pursue fair compensation.

How can I tell if my claim is being undervalued?

Warning signs include rushed settlement offers, pressure to give a recorded statement without legal advice, or offers that ignore ongoing treatment and long-term effects. If the offer does not seem to match your injuries and losses, it may be undervalued and worth reviewing with an attorney.

What do I do about medical bills while waiting for my case to settle?

Medical bills can be overwhelming, but your attorney can help coordinate with providers and insurance companies. In many cases, providers agree to wait for payment until your claim is resolved, and those expenses are typically included in your settlement or verdict.

Why is evidence so important in a personal injury case?

Evidence such as police reports, medical records, photographs, and witness statements helps show what happened, who is responsible, and how the incident affected your life. Strong evidence allows your attorney to build a compelling case for liability and damages.

What’s the difference between a settlement and a trial verdict?

A settlement is a negotiated agreement reached outside of court, usually offering a faster and more predictable resolution. A trial verdict is a decision by a judge or jury after a court trial. Trials can sometimes result in higher awards but take more time, cost more, and involve greater uncertainty.

≡Menu

Uptown man nabbed for failure to pay $556,876 in support

Home

Blog

Child Support

April 09, 2014

By: Susan A. Marks

Uptown man nabbed for failure to pay $556,876 in support

When most marriages with minor children end, whether in Illinois or elsewhere in the country, the noncustodial parent is typically required to make monthly support payments to the custodial parent to cover everyday expenses, health care bills, school expenses and other costs. For this reason, when a noncustodial parent fails to pay child support, both his or her children and the custodial parent can be greatly affected. Even so, some noncustodial parents seem to have no conscience when it comes to failing to meet their obligations.

One of those apparently is a 52-year-old resident of Chicago’s Uptown neighborhood. He recently was arrested for failure to pay more than $550,000 in child support after reportedly evading Cook County authorities for more than 5 years.

The Cook County Sheriff’s Central Warrant Unit received a tip about the man’s whereabouts and was able to find and arrest him on an outstanding child support warrant dating back to 2008.

Police say the alleged deadbeat parent owed almost $556,000 in back child support for his three children. The suspect was released after posting a cash bond; he is scheduled to appear in court this month.

Failure to pay child support can mean serious penalties for a noncustodial parent, including jail time and substantial fines. Unfortunately, nonpayment of child support is often a bigger problem for the custodial parent, who must find ways to make up the loss of income, whether by cutting the household budget to the bone or finding another source of income, such as an additional job.

Fortunately, options are available in Illinois to help custodial parents obtain unpaid support. Through child support enforcement actions, the custodial parent, government agencies and child support agencies may be able to find and implement ways to collect overdue support. Wage garnishment, seizure of tax refunds and filing liens are among those options.

Source: NBC Chicago, “Man Who Owes $550,000 in Child Support Arrested,” March 27, 2014

Reviews

Fast and effective. All questions were answered.

Gabriela N.

Attorney Djonlich and the entire office have been extremely professional, efficient, and detail oriented throughout the divorce process. I would recommend this group to anyone needing representation in a divorce.

Alexandra

Excellent service and extremely knowledgeable! I would recommend the services to anyone in the market.

Graham E.

Appreciated Brandon answering all of my prenup/postnup questions in our consultation

Courtney K.

They did a really great job with my injury case. Very professional and they communicated very well throughout the whole process. Id recommend Brandon to anyone looking for a good…

Joe

Providing Legal
Solutions In An
Equitable &
Cost-Effective Manner

847-255-9925

25Nov

Can I Request a Child Custody Evaluation?

The thought that your child could be unsafe with their other parent can feel unbearable, leaving you anxious and unsure of what steps to take. Maybe a friend, family member,…

18Nov

Who Can Be Liable in a Truck Accident?

Being injured in a truck accident changes your life physically, emotionally, and financially. One of the first and most important questions victims ask is: Who's responsible for what happened? At…

11Nov

How Can I Protect My Privacy in a High-Profile Divorce?

When your divorce could attract unwanted attention, whether due to your career, finances, or community standing, the fear of gossip and exposure can feel paralyzing. This is a completely valid…

Need Our Help?

Schedule Your Free Consultation Today

847-255-9925

Contact Us

Get Your Free Consultation!

Attorney Advertising. This information is designed for general information only. The information presented should not be construed to be formal legal advice nor the formation of a lawyer/client relationship. Past results and testimonials are not a guarantee, warranty, or prediction of the outcome of your case, and should not be construed as such. Past results cannot guarantee future performance. Any result in a single case is not meant to create an expectation of similar results in future matters because each case involves many different factors, therefore, results will differ on a case-by-case basis. By providing contact information, users acknowledge and give explicit consent to be contacted via the methods of communication provided, including SMS. Message and data rates may apply. Message frequency may vary. Reply STOP to opt out.

Uptown man nabbed for failure to pay $556,876 in support