Family law attorneys across the country have seen an increase in family law matters since mid-March ranging from financial support and custody modifications to inquiries regarding divorce.
Working from home, especially with children in the house, has been a source of increased stress for many married couples, and may well be the final straw for those who were already considering divorce. With many cities reopening, at least partially, there has been an uptick in inquiries regarding Illinois divorce, and what parents can expect regarding parenting time and parenting responsibility and child and spousal support.
With the increase in intimate partner violence since March, there have also been an uptick in calls to domestic violence hotlines, shelters, and family law attorneys from victims stuck at home with abusive partners. Protective and temporary orders for support, parenting time, and exclusive use of the family home have increased as victims seek to divorce or separate from their abusers.
Even couples who were already divorced have had their share of family law issues during the pandemic. A whole host of family law issues have emerged including the non-payment of child support as many experiencing economic hardship from lost jobs or a reduction in hours and pay. Those who cannot afford to pay their child support payments seek modifications to child support orders while recipients fight to get at least some child support they desperately need. It is important to work with an experienced attorney when circumstances change to avoid accumulating child support arrears and seek alternative resources for children.
Divorced parents have also run into disagreements regarding parenting time arrangements during the pandemic, especially those who arranged parenting time around the school calendar or those who have real concerns about their children’s health when moving back and forth between two home environments. Parents in conflict over parenting time during the pandemic have sought temporary modifications to parenting time agreements that are in the best interests of their children – having a skilled negotiator can make all the difference.
Family Law Issues Are Increasing During the Pandemic
Contact Our Lake County Illinois Family Law attorneys for Help
The impact of the pandemic has been destabilizing for many families and the Libertyville family law attorneys of Schlesinger & Strauss LLC are here to help. If you have questions regarding Illinois parenting time or responsibility, child support, spousal maintenance, or Illinois divorce, contact our office today for immediate assistance at 847-680-4970.
