Unique Challenges with Dissolution of a Long-Term Marriage

Unique Challenges with Dissolution of a Long-Term Marriage

Though Illinois divorce law applies no matter how long you are married, dissolution of a long-term marriage presents unique challenges. The longer the duration of your relationship, the more complicated it can be to identify marital property, divvy up shared assets, and address spousal support. When you also have minor children it is also essential to consider the key issues involved with raising them. 

At Iafrate & Salassa, P.C., our divorce lawyers are dedicated to enforcing your rights in proceedings involving the dissolution of a long-term marriage. We are also compassionate in understanding your needs when faced with an uncertain future. We have represented many Chicago-area clients who are divorced after many years together so we can assist with coming to an agreement with your spouse or advocating for you in court.

Why Divorce after a Long Marriage May Be More Complex

Couples divorcing after years or decades of marriage can struggle through the process because their lives have become so interconnected. Still, the Illinois Marriage and Dissolution of Marriage Act applies regardless of the length of the marriage. Spouses must address multiple key issues and the court encourages agreement by both spouses. However, courts will apply statutory provisions if parties cannot resolve their disputes. In a dissolution of a long-term marriage, your primary concerns involve: 

• Asset Division: Property obtained over the course of the marriage is subject to fair and equitable distribution. However, it is first necessary to separate marital versus non-marital assets. This can be difficult when these assets have been in your family for a long time.
• Spousal Support: In many long-term marriages, one spouse may have contributed more financially to the household while the other dedicated significant time and effort to raising the family or keeping the house in order. Determining spousal support (or maintenance, as it is called in Illinois) can be difficult because of this financial disparity and many related factors.
• Issues Related to Minor Children: Dissolution of a long-term marriage may also involve minor children, making it necessary to consider child custody, visitation, and support. Illinois law now refers to the allocation of parental responsibilities and parenting time to address care for minor children. An experienced family law attorney can help you navigate these difficult subjects and the changing laws surrounding them.

How Our Attorneys Can Help with Dissolution of a Long-Term Marriage in Illinois

The lawyers at Iafrate & Salassa, P.C. have considerable experience with issues that arise in all divorce cases. We can help: 

• Negotiate an agreement with your spouse on asset division and spousal support;
• Prepare the documents necessary to memorialize your agreement for purposes of divorce court proceedings;
• Work out disputes regarding minor children, balancing your wishes with the child’s best interests; and,
• Represent you in court if you cannot reach an agreement and it becomes necessary to resolve outstanding issues through a hearing.

Talk to a Chicago Divorce Attorney About Dissolution of a Long-Term Marriage

Divorce is never an easy process and it can be especially taxing for parties who are dissolving a long-term marriage. If you have questions or want to learn more about how our firm can help with these complex issues, please contact Iafrate & Salassa, P.C. to set up an initial consultation. We serve clients in Chicago and throughout Northeastern Illinois and we are happy to help.