Protecting Your Family And Your Future

Protect Your Right to a Stable Financial Future After Divorce

Divorce is difficult for everyone involved. Couples with multiple real estate holdings, retirement savings, art collections, stocks, and other investments, businesses, and children may be easily overwhelmed by all the vital decisions that must be made. However, the assistance of a knowledgeable, experienced lawyer can make the experience less stressful.

At The Barhaugh Law Firm, P.C., attorney Darran Barhaugh strives to help clients find solutions without creating additional pressure on a couple. He has the experience to value and divide complex assets. He will argue to protect your share of them. He can help you protect your interests regarding spousal support, child custody and child support with thoughtful negotiation and assertive trial litigation when necessary.

In Illinois, a contested divorce may take up to two years to resolve.
Reaching an agreement through negotiation or mediation can significantly shorten this time frame. Attorney Darran Barhaugh is also a certified mediator who can either represent you at mediation or serve as a mediator.

Practical Solutions For Complex Divorce Issues

The accurate valuation of marital assets is a crucial part of the equitable division of marital property in a divorce. Marital debts are also subject to division in a divorce. An equitable division means “fair,” not necessarily equal.

The Barhaugh Law Firm, P.C. often works with forensic accountants, appraisers, and financial experts when addressing assets such as your family home, vehicles, furnishings, and financial accounts, as well as:

  • Businesses and professional practices – Accurate valuations are necessary prior to asset division.
  • Retirement accounts, IRA and pensions – A qualified domestic relations order (QDRO) can avoid tax penalties for early disbursement when dividing these accounts.
  • Investments, stocks, and bonds – Financial experts value and divide these assets fairly.
  • Vacation property – Property in Illinois or out-of-state.

In addition to the division of assets, he assists with locating any hidden assets. When necessary, filing a temporary financial restraining order can prevent your spouse from transferring or wasting assets.

Clarity For Spousal Support And Children’s Issues

Illinois does not have a statutory formula for calculating spousal support, so it is important to have an attorney protect your interests. The Barhaugh Law Firm, P.C. has represented working spouses as well as those who do not have careers and understand the need for support to provide an equalization of income. Support must be fair to both parties. In general, the court considers the income, assets, and earning capability of each party, the length of the marriage, the standard of living during the marriage, and the tax consequences of the division of property.

When children are involved, attorney Darran Barhaugh will protect your parental rights in child custody disputes and child support. Mediation is required for most contested custody cases. However, this does not mean that the case will take years to resolve. Illinois law states that custody should be resolved within 18 months.

Speak With An Attorney As Soon As Possible

Attorney Darran Barhaugh can help you understand your legal options when divorce is on your horizon. He offers a clear road map and provides strong advocacy for his clients when they are at their most vulnerable. He has a proven track record for helping clients achieve peace of mind and a stable future through mediation, negotiation, and litigation. For a free consultation, please call The Barhaugh Law Firm, P.C., in Naperville at (630) 689-1778 or contact the firm online.