November 2025 Newsletter

With the end of the year approaching, November is a time for gratitude and growth. Many of us are preparing for family gatherings, holiday traditions, and end-of-year decisions, which can bring both joy and stress. Whether you're revisiting parenting agreements, navigating a separation, or simply seeking a peaceful holiday season, we're here to help you prepare.

Planning for the Holidays: Co-Parenting

The holiday season can be one of the most emotionally charged times of year, especially for co-parents. To avoid conflict and last-minute scrambling, now is the time to confirm holiday parenting schedules. Clear agreements on travel, expenses, and extended family visits go a long way toward creating a season of peace for you and your children.

Year-End Divorce Planning: Don't Wait Until January

January is often known as 'divorce month,' but waiting can actually cost you financially and emotionally. If you're contemplating divorce, the end of the year is actually a strategic time to act. Planning now can help you understand your 2026 outlook, prepare important documents ahead of the holidays, and avoid the emotional pressure of starting over in the new year.

OLL Cares: Lyric Young Professionals

This month, we're proud to spotlight the Lyric Young Professionals (LYP), a group of young arts supporters building the next generation of opera lovers in Chicago. With more than 150 members from diverse backgrounds, LYP fosters community through curated events, fundraising, and advocacy.

Spotlight

Olivia recently joined Bobby Callejas on The Bobby C Podcast for a meaningful conversation about leadership, purpose, and what drives her work.

Olivia recently returned to the University of Chicago Law School to serve as an alumni judge for the fall round of the Hinton Moot Court. A former competitor and past committee co-chair, Olivia enjoyed sharing knowledge and making connections with current students.

Recent Blogs

How Do Courts Handle Child Support When Parents Have Equal Parenting Time In Illinois? — Even with a 50/50 schedule, child support doesn't go away in Illinois.

What Happens to Pets In An Illinois Divorce? — Illinois treats pets differently from most property. Courts now look at an animal's well-being when deciding who keeps the family pet.

Can I Go To Jail For Ignoring Court Orders In My Divorce Case? — A recent Illinois case shows that refusing to follow divorce court orders can lead to civil contempt and even jail time.

Legal Tips

Spousal support (also called maintenance or alimony) isn't guaranteed in every Illinois divorce. Courts consider factors like the length of the marriage, income difference, and each spouse's financial needs.

Myth: You need a reason or 'fault' to file for divorce in Illinois.

Fact: Illinois is a no-fault divorce state. You don't need to prove wrongdoing, just an irreconcilable difference.