CHILD SUPPORT
In Illinois, the method used to set the amount of child support is income shares based on both parents’ net income and the number of children included in the child support order using the Illinois child support guidelines.
There are a lot of variables in this formula. Net income is not limited to taxable income or base wages and requires a close review of the finances of both spouses. In addition, decisions regarding who will provide medical coverage, how education and extracurricular/after-school activity costs will be divided and potential tax consequences can be formidable.
With the help of a mediator, both parents can negotiate and mutually agree upon a child support settlement based on their personal priorities and capabilities and in the best interest of their children.
SPOUSAL SUPPORT
Alimony, also called spousal support or maintenance, is a payment that one spouse makes to the other during or after a divorce. There are several factors to weigh to determine whether maintenance is appropriate.
Generally, spousal support is appropriate in cases where there is a discrepancy in the income of each of the parties. The court’s goal in awarding alimony is to put each spouse in an equal (or as close to it as possible) financial situation after the divorce.
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In Illinois, there is a standard formula used to calculate spousal support, but it can deviate due to the needs of each spouse, realistic present and future earning capacity of each spouse, standard of living during marriage, length of marriage, and any other factor considered to be just and equitable.
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As your mediator, I will use the standard number to begin the conversation between you and your spouse, but we will be guided by the principles of fairness and equitable treatment so that your settlement will earn the judge’s approval.