March 2026 Newsletter

As March begins, many of our clients find themselves navigating new challenges that can impact their families. From preparing for tax season and coordinating co-parenting schedules for spring break, this time of year often prompts families to revisit important decisions and responsibilities.

March is Women's History Month, which offers us a chance to recognize the leadership and resilience of women across every field, including the legal profession. As a women-led family law firm, O. Long Law, LLC is proud to advocate for individuals and families while continuing the work of women who have helped expand access to justice and strengthen protections for families.

March is also an important time for financial planning. For those who have recently gone through a divorce, tax preparation can raise new questions around filing status, dependency claims, and how divorce settlements may impact financial obligations. It's important to take time to understand these changes to avoid surprises and ensure that your financial plans stay on track.

At the same time, many families are also preparing for spring vacations, which can bring up questions or changes to parenting time and travel plans. Clear communication, thoughtful planning, and legal documentation can help ensure that schedules run smoothly and children are able to enjoy time with their parents.

Firm Updates

On March 18, Olivia St. Clair Long will be participating in a speaker series at Highland Park High School in honor of International Women's Day. The event will bring together women professionals to share their experiences, insights, and career journeys with students.

Spotlight

Olivia St. Clair Long recently performed in the Woman's Club of Evanston Revue, a long-standing community tradition that brings together music, humor, and community spirit. Each year, the Revue raises funds to support an impactful local organization, and this year its beneficiary is the Piven Theatre Workshop.

There are still a few performances remaining: Dates: March 12-14. Location: 1702 Chicago Avenue, Evanston, IL.

Recent Blogs

Common Mediation Mistakes Illinois Divorce Clients Make — Divorce mediation can help Illinois couples resolve family law disputes outside of court, reducing conflict and legal costs.

We Share Credit Cards: Who Is Responsible For Credit Card Debt During a Divorce in Illinois? — Debt incurred during the marriage is typically considered marital debt, regardless of whose name is on the card.

Ensuring Equal Recognition: Illinois Equality For Every Family Act — The Equality for Every Family Act, effective earlier this year, modernizes Illinois parentage laws to better reflect today's diverse families.

Legal Tips

A Birth Certificate Alone Does Not Establish Parentage. Being listed on a child's birth certificate does not always guarantee legal parentage under Illinois law. In some cases, parents may also need a Voluntary Acknowledgment of Parentage (VAP) or a court order to fully establish and protect their parental rights.

Myth: Your child can choose who they want to live with when they turn 14.

Fact: In Illinois, there is no 'magic age,' however, a judge is more likely to talk to and listen to an older child about their preferences than a younger child.