Key Legal Terms and Definitions

Navigating the divorce process involves understanding a variety of legal terms and definitions. Here’s a concise glossary to help you grasp key concepts:

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Maintenance

Formerly known as alimony, maintenance provides financial support from a higher-earning spouse to a lower-earning spouse, most often awarded in longer-term marriages. It is separate from child support and is typically awarded for a defined period. Eligibility for maintenance varies based on individual circumstances.

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Visitation

Visitation refers to the parenting schedule between the noncustodial parent and minor children. Illinois has replaced "visitation" with "parenting time" in legal language. The typical arrangement includes alternating weekends, a midweek dinner, and shared holidays. This is formalized in a Joint Parenting Agreement and aims to be fair and in the best interests of the children.

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Retirement Accounts

Retirement accounts, such as IRAs, pensions, and 401(k)s, are divided between spouses based on the marital portion accrued during the marriage. The division process uses Qualified Domestic Relations Orders (QDROs) or Qualified Illinois Domestic Relations Orders (QILDROs).

Child Support

Child support in Illinois is determined by statutory guidelines, based on the paying spouse's net income using the income share approach based upon both spouse's incomes. This support is set early in the case and can be modified if there are changes in income.

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Unallocated Family Support

Unallocated family support combines child support and maintenance into one payment.

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Marital Residence

The marital residence is the property used as a family home or as an investment. Both spouses are entitled to a share of the equity. If one spouse wishes to keep the home, they can buy out the other’s share. Otherwise, the property is sold, and proceeds are divided.

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Retainer

A retainer is an upfront fee paid to hire an attorney, acting as an advance for legal services. My office offers lower retainer amounts compared to other firms and provides flexible payment plans. Maintaining the retainer balance is crucial, as attorneys typically require replenishment to continue representation. Unlike other attorneys, we do not require retainer replenishment to continue representation.

We’re Here to Support Your Journey

For more information on these legal terms and definitions and how they apply to your case, contact Reno R. Renzetti/Nordini and Thompson today. Our goal is to provide clarity and support throughout your divorce journey. Get in touch to schedule a consultation and receive expert advice on all your divorce-related concerns.
For a free consultation, Call: (773) 401-6553
Reno R. Renzetti
Attorney At Law

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