Rockford LGBTQIA+ Divorce Attorney & LGBTQ Family Law Lawyer

Domestic partnerships refer to relationships between two adults, including individuals of the same sex and opposite sexes. Under domestic partnership law, committed adults (who are not married to other individuals) are afforded recognizable rights without becoming legally married.

Such partnerships historically have been alternatives for same-sex couples living within states that did not recognize same-sex marriage. When an LGBTQIA+ couple makes their relationship official under Illinois domestic partnership laws, they are afforded the same legal rights and responsibilities as married couples under the Illinois Religious Freedom Protection and Civil Union Act.

As a Rockford LGBTQIA+ divorce lawyer and family law attorney with over a decade of experience, I, and my firm handle nearly all types of LGBTQIA+ family law matters, including (but not limited to):

• Same-sex divorce
• Spousal support
• Child custody and support
• Property and asset division
• Business division

At Rockford Family Law, we do not discriminate against anyone based on their sexual orientation, religion, ethnicity, or race. As a proud supporter of the legal rights of the LGBTQIA+ community, we are dedicated to seeking justice and equality for all Illinois residents.

To initiate a divorce in Illinois, one spouse must file a Petition for Dissolution of Marriage in the county where the parties reside. Once filed, the divorce process will initiate, and the fact-gathering phase will commence.

The outcome of a divorce and property division can have a substantial impact on an individual’s future; thus, it is critical to be vigilant during this stage. Divorce determinations are likely to be based on the facts uncovered, making it crucial to consult with a Rockford LGBTQIA divorce attorney who is experienced in uncovering documentation that may be critical to the outcome of a divorce and asset division.

For over a decade, I have tenaciously fought to protect the interests and assets of divorcing clients. If you are contemplating divorce or have been served with divorce papers, I invite you to call our office to schedule a free consultation to learn more about your rights and obligations under Illinois law.

Section 5/503 of the Illinois Marriage and Dissolution of Marriage Act governs the distribution of marital assets. Under the Act, marital assets are not automatically divided and distributed equally (i.e., 50%/50%). Instead, Illinois family courts are tasked with dividing assets and debts equitably, meaning that a judge has broad discretion in determining how valuable assets and property are distributed.

For example, if one spouse was a stay-at-home parent while the other spouse earned significant income, the state-at-home parent with limited earning potential is likely to be awarded more than the high-earning spouse.

In determining the equitable division of assets, courts may consider a variety of statutory factors, including:

• Prenuptial agreements;
• Postnuptial agreements;
• The duration of a marriage;
• The value of marital property;
• The economic circumstances of each party;
• The obligations and rights of each party arising from prior marriages;
• Child custody considerations;
• The contribution or dissipation of marital or non-marital property by either spouse; and
• Other relevant factors.