August 2025 Newsletter

As August comes to a close, we feel the shift from carefree summer days to preparation and planning. For many families, this means gearing up for the school year. For co-parents, August is an important time to revisit agreements and expectations. It is also the perfect moment to start thinking ahead to the holiday season.

Back-to-School Readiness for Co-Parents

The start of a new school year can bring excitement and stress for both parents and children. For co-parents, now is the time to revisit custody schedules, transportation logistics, extracurricular responsibilities, and communication plans. A clearly defined parenting plan can ease the transition and prevent misunderstandings.

Holiday Planning Starts Now

The holidays may seem far off, but for families navigating custody and visitation, August is a strategic time to start those conversations. Many agreements include specific holiday schedules, but if they don't, or if conflicts have emerged in the past, addressing them early can make the season less stressful for everyone.

OLL Cares: Downtown Evanston

This month, we're proud to spotlight Downtown Evanston, an organization that brings our community to life through arts, culture, and small business initiatives. This year, O. Long Law sponsored the Thursday Night Market, a vibrant summer series.

We're Moving

Please note that effective September 1, 2025, O. Long Law, LLC will be located at 909 Davis Street, Suite 500 in Evanston. We look forward to continuing to serve you from our new home.

Spotlight

Big congratulations to M.K. Clayton on their appointment to the Chicago Bar Association Adoption Law Committee.

On July 31, Olivia joined fellow Lady Lawyers Who Lunch members at the Decalogue Society of Lawyers Annual Awards Dinner.

Recent Blogs

High Net Worth Divorce: Can I Get Maintenance If My Ex Is Unemployed? — In high net worth divorces, courts look beyond paychecks to assess income and assets.

School's Back. Is Your Parenting Plan Ready? — From pick-up schedules to school expenses, now is the time to review and update your parenting plan.

How Does The Court Decide Whether I Can Relocate With My Children? — In Illinois, relocation laws are strict and the court must approve the move.

Legal Tips

Unused parenting time doesn't erase support obligations. If a parent frequently misses their scheduled time with the child, that doesn't automatically change child support obligations.

Myth: A parent can move out of state with the kids if they have sole custody.

Fact: Even with sole decision-making, a parent cannot relocate outside Illinois or beyond certain distances without providing notice and, in some cases, getting court approval.