Family Law

Issues related to family law can become extremely complicated and emotionally exhausting for you. Oftentimes, the legal and emotional aspects of a case can become overwhelming. You should have the ability to focus on the emotional aspects while the attorneys handle the legal issues. At Lafata Law, this is our top priority.

Here at Lafata Law, we understand the complexities involved in the family law court. Our attorneys will work diligently to guide you each step of the way. The attorneys at Lafata Law will work diligently to negotiate the best resolution for you short of trial. If negotiations fall through, our skilled trial attorneys possess the knowledge and resources required to aggressively advocate for you.

The attorneys at Lafata Law understand each family law case is unique. Divorce is often just the tip of the iceberg. Below is just a snapshot of what our firm can assist you with.

Paternity/Parentage Matters

• Establishing Paternity
• Father’s Rights
• Grandparent Visitation

Allocation of Parental Responsibilities/Custody/Visitation

• Commonly known as “custody” or “visitation”, Illinois now utilizes the term “allocation of parental responsibilities” during divorce proceedings. In an ideal scenario, both parents would be able to agree regarding their children, however that is not always possible. Agreeing on everything when it comes to parenting time, decision-making, healthcare, education, and extra-curricular activities can become difficult.
• If you’re looking for a law firm that is dedicated to standing up for your rights, Lafata Law is ready to assist you. With our legal expertise, we can assist you in achieving the best possible outcome for your children in both divorce and parentage proceedings. When it comes to your family’s future, don’t settle for anything less than what you deserve. Trust the attorneys at Lafata Law to fight for your rights.

Child Support 

• Whether you are seeking to file for support, modify an existing support order, or enforce an order that is already in place, the attorneys here at Lafata Law have years of experience to assist you in ensuring a brighter future for your child in both divorce and parentage proceedings.

Uncontested Divorce

• If you and your spouse are able to agree to the terms of the divorce, Lafata Law has you covered. Divorce through uncontested means will save your family some of the emotional and financial stress that is associated with divorce. Our firm is often able to offer a flat rate fee which can potentially save you thousands in legal fees.
• The attorneys at Lafata Law can guide you through an uncontested divorce. We strive to make the process as simple and painless as possible.

Contested Divorce

• Unfortunately, many families are not in a position to resolve their divorce in an uncontested manner. It requires you and your spouse to come to agreement on all elements of the divorce process. 
• Common issues in a divorce typically include:
  • Determining what should be considered marital property
  • The net worth of the marital estate,
  • How to divide debts and assets,
  • Developing a parenting plan
  • Determining whether one spouse will pay spousal or child support, and if so, the amount of support to be paid
• At Lafata Law, you can rest assured that our firm will work with you from beginning to end. We are committed to protecting your interests and rights throughout the entire legal process.

Spousal Support/Maintenance

• Spousal support, also commonly known as “maintenance” or “alimony”, is meant to balance the scales after separation or divorce. If there is a significant disparity in income between spouses, maintaining a similar standard of living may be difficult. 
• At Lafata Law, our team is here to assist you. Whether you are seeking support, modifying, or enforcing an existing order in your divorce proceedings, we are here for you.

Same-Sex Divorce

• At Lafata Law, our attorneys are committed to remaining current with the latest legal developments to ensure the protection of their client’s rights. While similar in many respects to heterosexual divorces, same-sex divorces may entail unique challenges due to the evolving legal landscape and lack of established legal precedents, commonly known as case law, compared to heterosexual divorces. This may pose a challenge during litigation related to property division, child support, and developing a parenting plan. 
• Same-sex couples may face additional hurdles related to the allocation of parental responsibilities. Custody battles and visitation rights can become complex when one parent is the non-biological/non-adoptive parent. 

Orders of Protection 

• Stalking No Contact Orders
• Civil No Contact Orders
• Restraining Orders

DCFS Appeals

• Administrative Hearings
• Juvenile Abuse Charges
• Juvenile Neglect Charges
• Shelter care Hearings

Guardian Ad Litem (GAL) Services 

• Attorney Megan T. Lafata (Elsner) is available by court appointment in DuPage County.

No matter which applies to you, the attorneys at Lafata Law are here to help. Lafata Law serves clients in Cook, DuPage, Kane, Will, and Kendall counties. Contact us today for your free consultation.