Oak Brook Divorce Attorneys
Seasoned Legal Representation in Complex Divorce Cases in the Chicago Metropolitan Area
Divorce is difficult by default. These proceedings can become significantly more challenging when complex assets are involved, as their division often requires intricate financial and legal analysis. Properties, investments, business interests, and retirement accounts each have unique valuation and distribution considerations that can lead to disputes. Identifying assets, determining their value, and understanding tax implications often demands input from experts.
With so much at stake, you need an attorney who understands what you are specifically going through and is up to the task of handling a case of your complexity. At Weiss-Kunz & Oliver, we have a track record of successfully litigating against prominent boutique law firms in the Chicago area. Partners Maxine Weiss Kunz and Amanda M. Oliver leverage their experience working for massive law firms to provide our clients with large firm strength and strategies while offering small firm attention and personalized service. We can provide aggressive representation in divorce cases involving complex assets, difficult personalities, and more. Our team is also prepared to assist people from all walks of life, from public figures to entrepreneurs.
Call (312) 605-4041 or contact us online to schedule a confidential consultation with our Oak Brook divorce lawyers. We look forward to learning more about your circumstances.
How Does Divorce Work in Oak Brook, IL?
A divorce in Oak Brook, Illinois, starts with the filing of an initial petition for dissolution of marriage. In DuPage County, the petition must be generally e-filed with the 18th Judicial Circuit Court, located at 505 N County Farm Road, Wheaton, IL 60187.
The petition serves as a formal request to legally end a marriage and includes basic information about the spouses, any children involved, and the grounds for divorce. Illinois operates under a no-fault divorce system, meaning irreconcilable differences must be cited as the reason for the irreparable breakdown of the marriage. Once the petition is filed, it must be served on the other spouse, who then has the option to respond.
The next stage, known as the discovery process, is critical to reaching a fair resolution. During discovery, both parties disclose information about their finances, assets, debts, and other relevant matters. The tools used in this process may include interrogatories, requests for the production of documents, and depositions. The goal is to provide complete transparency so that all marital assets and liabilities are accounted for before decisions are made regarding property division and support. Discovery can be time-intensive, particularly in cases involving complex financial portfolios or hidden assets, but it lays the groundwork for informed negotiations or court decisions.
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"I needed an attorney who would fight for me and also keep me focused, and Maxine had my back."Maxine was very professional and worked efficiently to complete our case. Highly recommend!- Gloria B.
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"As a client of WKO, I highly recommend Amanda Oliver."She has extensive experience to address family law issues efficiently and effectively. She is direct, informative, knowledgeable, resourceful and well-respected in the legal community. I love how she anticipates and mitigates potential issues, strategizes next steps, and keeps me informed along the way. If you have to go thru the divorce process, you want Amanda in your corner. HIGHLY recommend!- Angela L.
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"Divorce isn’t always easy but Maxine and her team at WKO make it so."Maxine and her team have exceeded my expectations. Focused on the family and doing the right thing for everyone involved. Most importantly, my children. I’m deeply grateful for her efforts.- Stephen G.
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"I am so glad I chose Amanda & her team."I highly recommend Amanda Oliver & her team at Weiss-Kunz & Oliver. Everyone I dealt with was professional, empathetic & compassionate. They make their clients their priority. Their fee structure was fair & very transparent.- Amy S.
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"Maxine is very competent in her work, friendly, professional, responsive and down to earth."Maxine Weiss Kunz was great to work with. She clarified complex legal jargon into laymen terms and helped soothe the anxiety I often feel when the law is involved and it is a serious matter. Grateful to her and her team. Thank you Maxine!- Nina K.
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"Thank you, Amanda for being a powerful advocate when I needed one most."You handled my case with empathy, patience, and delivered with passion. You exceeded my expectations, and your work was brilliant! Weiss-Klunz & Oliver are not only knowledgeable of the law, the entire team is responsive, supportive, and really care about their clients. Thank you for taking my situation and turning it into a positive outcome.- Rosa
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"I needed an attorney who would fight for me and also keep me focused, and Maxine had my back."
Maxine was very professional and worked efficiently to complete our case. Highly recommend!
- Gloria B. -
"My experience with Maxine was great from start to finish."
Easy to communicate with and we developed a well thought out plan to get what we needed out of a legal dispute with my ex wife. Maxine was very thoughtful though out the process and did not waste my time or money unless it was necessary. I highly recommend their firm.
- Brandon B.
Flat Fee Representation for Uncontested Divorces in Highland Park, IL
Filing for an uncontested divorce may be an option if you and your spouse agree on all significant aspects of the separation, including property division, child custody, child support, and spousal maintenance. Additionally, Illinois requires that either you or your spouse meet the residency requirement, which stipulates living in the state for at least 90 days before filing. If you meet these conditions and wish to proceed amicably, an uncontested divorce can be a more efficient and cost-effective resolution.
At Weiss-Kunz & Oliver, we provide representation for uncontested divorce cases at a flat fee. As your attorney in an uncontested divorce, we can help prepare and file all necessary legal documents to comply with Illinois law. We can draft any agreements, such as marital settlement agreements, to clearly outline all terms of your divorce. Furthermore, our Oak Brook divorce lawyers can provide advice tailored to your specific situation, helping you understand your rights and obligations throughout the process.
While our goal is to facilitate uncontested divorces smoothly, disputes may sometimes arise during the process, potentially turning the matter into a contested divorce. We can work to keep an uncontested divorce on track by addressing potential disagreements early through proactive communication, aiming to resolve issues before they escalate.
Our team can help you navigate your divorce from beginning to end. Contact us online or call (312) 605-4041 to discuss your situation with us today.
What Types of Assets Can Complicate Property Division in an Illinois Divorce?
Many types of complex assets require careful consideration in Illinois divorces, including:
Dividing marital property that may include complex assets can become particularly complicated. We understand the challenges that can come up when attempting to fairly divide such property, especially in contentious situations. We are here to help you identify, value, and strategize the division of these assets to protect your financial future.
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Business InterestsIf one or both spouses own a business, determining its value and dividing it can be a significant challenge. Factors like the type of business entity, whether it was started before or during the marriage, and future earning potential all come into play. We can work with financial experts to properly value the business, assessing aspects such as goodwill, assets, debts, and revenue streams. Division may involve equitable sharing of profits, buyout agreements, or adjustments to other marital assets to offset the value of the business.
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Retirement Accounts and PensionsRetirement accounts, such as 401(k)s, IRAs, and pensions, often include both marital and non-marital portions, depending on when contributions were made. Properly dividing these assets requires a clear understanding of Illinois law and often involves preparing a Qualified Domestic Relations Order (QDRO). Missteps in this process can result in tax penalties or unequal distribution, so careful handling is essential.
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Real Estate HoldingsBeyond the marital home, additional real estate, such as vacation properties or rental units, can add substantial complexity. These properties may require appraisals to determine their fair market value, and the division must account for any mortgages, tax implications, and the liquidity of the property. Disputes often arise over whether to sell the properties or have one spouse retain ownership, making strategic planning crucial.
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Investments and Stock OptionsSecurities like stocks, mutual funds, and stock options can fluctuate in value, creating challenges for equitable division. Additionally, stock options may not vest until after the divorce is finalized, requiring careful valuation and planning for their future worth. A detailed understanding of financial instruments and market conditions is essential to achieving a fair resolution.
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Valuable Personal Property and CollectiblesHigh-value personal items like artwork, jewelry, antiques, or collectibles can be difficult to divide due to their subjective worth and emotional significance. Obtaining expert appraisals and documenting ownership history can assist in determining whether these items are considered marital property and how they can be appropriately divided.
