Experienced Attorneys Who Handle Post-Decree Court Order Modifications

Life changes after a divorce. Your final decree or custody agreement reflects your situation at signing, but things can shift over time. At Del Re Law Group, P.C., our attorneys have over 22 years of experience helping Lake County families adjust court orders for child support, parenting schedules and other post-divorce matters.

Proving A Substantial Change In Circumstances In Illinois

Illinois courts won’t change a final order just because you’re unhappy with it. You must prove a “substantial change in circumstances.” This means a major, lasting shift in your financial situation or personal life that you didn’t expect.

Judges commonly accept involuntary job loss, major layoffs or significant income drops as reasons to lower support. A boost in earnings, like a promotion or business growth, may mean higher payments. Serious health problems or disabilities that hurt your ability to work also count. As children grow up, turn 18 or graduate, their needs change too.

A huge change in your work hours can also qualify. This includes switching from night shifts to day shifts, traveling more for work or taking on a new schedule. If your new hours make your current schedule hard to follow or let you spend more time with your child, the court may adjust your parenting plan. Keep in mind that the change must always serve the best interests of your child, not just your personal convenience.

What Court Orders Can Be Modified Post-Divorce?

You can update most financial and parenting orders if you meet legal requirements. You can modify these orders:

• Child support amounts: Adjusted based on income changes or shifts in healthcare and education costs
• Parenting time and decision-making: Modified when work schedules change or a child’s needs evolve
• Spousal maintenance (alimony): Changed or ended due to major income shifts, remarriage or cohabitation
• Relocation petitions: Required court approval for out-of-state moves or distances beyond Illinois limits

A post-decree modification attorney will ensure you file your petition correctly in Lake County Circuit Court.

College Expense Allocation Under Illinois Law

Illinois courts can order divorced parents to contribute to college or trade school costs. This is separate from child support and continuing past age 18.

Orders can cover tuition, room and board, books, fees and insurance. Contributions are capped at University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign costs unless you agree otherwise. Judges review both parents’ finances, the child’s grades and available aid or savings. Students must maintain a “C” average, with obligations ending at age 23, upon earning a bachelor’s degree or marriage.

It’s also important to mention that college expense contributions aren’t retroactive. You must file a petition before you incur expenses to require your ex-spouse to contribute.

Update Your Court Orders With A Trusted Lawyer

If your financial situation has changed or your parenting schedule needs adjusting, our attorneys are here to help. Our firm is located right next to the Lake County courthouse in Waukegan. We respond within 24 business hours and serve clients throughout Lake County, including high-asset communities like Libertyville, Lake Forest, Lake Bluff and Highland Park.

Call us today at 847-625-9800 or reach out online to schedule a free consultation with our experienced post-decree team.