For non-biological parents in LGBTQ+ families, second parent adoption, also known as co-parent adoption or confirmatory adoption, is a legal process that helps protect parental rights regardless of what state the family may live in or travel to in the future, especially if laws that have been passed previously to protect LGBTQ+ families are challenged or repealed. This guide … [Read more...] about Complete Guide to Second Parent Adoption
LGBTQIA+
Zoom Court Dos and Don’ts
Zoom court is one of the many changes to our judicial system and family courts as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic that is here to stay. Long past the original lockdown and restrictions that necessitated virtual court, many counties are still holding court online. While it isn't ideal for many cases and proceedings, there are also advantages to using virtual appearances for … [Read more...] about Zoom Court Dos and Don’ts
Drafting an Effective Illinois Parenting Plan
Are you facing the challenge of creating an Illinois parenting plan that fits your family? Did the judge ask you to submit a proposed parenting plan by a certain deadline? Do you have a parenting plan that needs to be updated? Whether it’s a post-divorce case or an initial determination of parentage, the parenting plan is what contains your expectations as well as those of the … [Read more...] about Drafting an Effective Illinois Parenting Plan
How to Dress in Court: Mastering Courtroom Appearance
Entering a courtroom can feel like stepping onto a stage. The eyes of the judge, your opposing party, and the gallery are all upon you. The spotlight isn’t just on your words or actions, but on your appearance as well. How you present yourself can have a significant impact on the outcome of your case. Think of your appearance as a silent statement, a non-verbal testimony that … [Read more...] about How to Dress in Court: Mastering Courtroom Appearance
Amy Coney Barrett and LGBTQ Family Law Implications
This week the United States Senate confirmed Amy Coney Barrett to the highest court in the land to solidify the Court's conservative majority. While the current state of LGBTQ marriage law appears stable, estate planning and family lawyers will experience an increase in need for the following to protect the financial security of same-sex spouses: Wills Living … [Read more...] about Amy Coney Barrett and LGBTQ Family Law Implications
