We Aren’t Married, but I am Out! Do I Need a Lawyer? How a Lawyer Can Help You in Your Separation Even if You Weren’t Married
While most people in Chicago are likely very familiar with the concept of divorce, fewer Chicago residents may understand the concept of a separation without being married. At the outset, couples who are not married cannot legally get divorced, since a divorce is a dissolution of a legal marriage, under Illinois laws. However, even if a couple is not married, when it is time to split, it may be a good idea to consult with a Chicago legal separation lawyer. Here are a few reasons why seeking out the assistance may make sense in a Chicago separation, even if you and your former romantic partner were not legally wed.
#1. If there are Complex Property or Financial Issues, You May Want Legal Assistance
Even though couples going through a separation without being married, rather than a divorce, need not go through the rigorous process of marital property division, if there are complex property or financial issues – such as shared high-value assets or multiple shared properties – it may be a good idea to speak with a lawyer. A lawyer can advise as to what is fair under the circumstances, and can help draft legal documents to memorialize the terms of the separation.
#2. If there are Children that were Born of the Relationship, You May Want to Speak to a Lawyer
Consulting with an experienced Chicago child custody lawyer may be a good idea if there are children involved in a separation where the couple was not married in Chicago. Even though there was no legal marriage, issues such as child custody, child support, and visitation will need to be worked out. Consulting with an experienced Chicago child custody lawyer may help to protect your interests when it comes to one of the most important parts, if not the most important part, of the separation – the children.
#3. If You Absolutely Cannot Agree, You May Need a Lawyer to Get Involved
Many couples start the separation process believing that they can come to an agreement with their former romantic partner, but find that, ultimately, they just can’t see eye-to-eye. An experienced Chicago separation lawyer can help represent your interests if you need to attend a mediation or, if it comes to it, court. An experienced Chicago separation lawyer can advise you as to your rights and make sure that you take action in your best interests.
Separation is no easy task for anyone. If you need assistance from an experienced Chicago separation lawyer, the lawyers at Birnbaum Gelfman Sharma & Arnoux, LLC are here to help. The experienced Chicago separation lawyers at Birnbaum Gelfman Sharma & Arnoux, LLC offer a confidential consultation to learn about your Chicago separation case and to see if they can help fight for you. Contact Birnbaum Gelfman Sharma & Arnoux, LLC and speak to a lawyer about your rights and next steps today.
