How a Second Marriage Can Impact Children

Remarrying after a divorce is a time for celebration—for the most part. It might not be obvious, but many children of divorce can harbor negative emotions about their parent entering a second marriage. Feelings like jealousy, insecurity, and abandonment, for example, can dampen the entire experience, which is meant to be a celebration of love. Although parents […]

Why Some Couples Choose Civil Unions Over Marriage

What Is a Civil Union? In Illinois, a civil union is a legal relationship between two people that affords them the same legal rights as a marriage. Civil unions became officially recognized in 2011 with the passing of the Illinois Religious Freedom Protection and Civil Union Act. A civil union can be entered into by both same-sex […]

Does Illinois Recognize Common Law Marriage?

What is Common Law Marriage? Common law marriage consists of two individuals living together who have not been legally married but who present themselves to others as “married.” These individuals may have lived together for months or years and may even have children and property they share. These types of “marriages” have been around for […]