Financial uncertainty is one of the greatest sources of stress during a divorce or separation. Whether you are concerned about providing for your children or worried about your own stability, questions about support can feel overwhelming. In Illinois, child support and maintenance (alimony) are legal tools designed to create stability, ensure fairness, and allow both parties to move forward with confidence.
At Brave Law Center, P.C., we understand that these are not just numbers on a spreadsheet; they are the foundation of your family’s future. Whether you are establishing, receiving, or paying support, our experienced attorneys provide the clear guidance and dedicated advocacy you need to navigate these complex calculations and protect your financial well-being.
To eliminate confusion and reduce conflict, we guide our clients through a structured and transparent process. We handle the legal complexities so you can focus on your family.
Child support is the financial contribution a parent makes toward their children’s upbringing. The ultimate goal is to ensure a child’s needs are fully met, reflecting the standard of living the child would have enjoyed had the family remained intact. Illinois uses an “Income Shares” model, which means the calculation is based on the combined income of both parents and the number of children requiring support.
These payments must be used for the express benefit of your children, covering essential expenses such as:
Food, clothing, and shelter to maintain a stable living environment.
Medical insurance, routine check-ups, and necessary treatments.
Costs for daycare or babysitting that enable a parent to work.
School supplies, tuition, and extracurricular activities that help children thrive.
Costs associated with travel for school, medical appointments, and activities.
Maintenance is not awarded in every divorce. Illinois courts consider several factors to determine if it is appropriate, including:
Based on these factors, maintenance may be temporary (rehabilitative), designed to help a spouse get back on their feet, or awarded for a longer term in cases involving lengthy marriages.
We understand that we meet people at their worst, and as your advocate, we are here to help you get your life back on track. Attorney Amanda Stanley’s philosophy guides our approach: we empower our clients to create positive change and not let their current circumstances define them. We are zealous advocates who will fight for you, but we also recognize that a collaborative resolution is often best for the entire family.
This compassionate approach is backed by the strategic experience of our entire team. With founder Jason Netzley’s background as a prosecutor and our firm’s extensive history in the family courts of Peoria, Tazewell, Woodford and Fulton counties, we provide robust legal counsel. We excel at assessing complex financial situations, negotiating fair agreements, and protecting our clients’ rights, whether they are the primary earner or have been out of the workforce for years.
Illinois uses the "Income Shares" model. The court determines both parents' net incomes, combines them, and uses a state-provided chart to find the basic support obligation. This amount is then allocated between the parents based on their percentage share of the combined income and the amount of parenting time each has.
Child support is for the direct benefit of the children and is a right that belongs to the child. Maintenance (alimony) is financial support paid from one spouse to another to ensure financial fairness after the divorce.
Yes. If there has been a "substantial change in circumstances," such as a significant and involuntary job loss, a major promotion, or a change in the child's needs, you can petition the court to modify the existing support order.
You should not deny parenting time. Instead, you can file a petition with the court to enforce the order. A judge can take several actions, including wage garnishment, intercepting tax refunds, or even suspending the non-paying parent's driver's license.
Establishing fair support orders is a fundamental part of any divorce or separation involving children. Our team is dedicated to helping you create an arrangement that provides clarity and stability for years to come.
This service is a core component of our Family Law Practice.
Explore our other related legal services:
Whether you are establishing, modifying, or enforcing a support order, having an experienced attorney is crucial to protecting your rights. To ensure your payments are handled fairly and in accordance with Illinois law, contact the dedicated family law professionals at Brave Law Center, P.C.
To discuss your case, call us today at 309-228-9251 or reach out through our convenient online contact form.
