Family Law Practice Areas
Joel DeGrazia practices primarily matrimonial law including divorce, child custody, child support, division of assets, parental rights, grandparents’ rights, prenuptial, and postnuptial issues. For more information on DeGrazia Law’s practice areas, please select from the options below. Joel DeGrazia applies the same philosophy of care and attention to each area, but he also understands that each case is different. For a personalized consultation regarding your matrimonial legal case, please contact DeGrazia Law.
Divorce
No couple gets married with the expectation of one day needing to hire a divorce lawyer. But as time passes and people and situations change, sometimes divorce becomes a necessary option. DeGrazia Law can help you navigate the ins and outs of divorce law during an already challenging time.
Child Custody
When divorce becomes necessary for parents, it can be difficult to determine the best way to continue meeting the child’s/children’s needs. DeGrazia law is prepared to help you create an effective parenting plan and to fight for your rights regarding all custody issues and the allocation of parental responsibilities.
Child Support Matters
The legal proceedings of divorce and child custody cases are challenging on their own. In addition to concerns for the emotional support and well-being of their children, parents must consider financial support. Joel DeGrazia undertands how child support laws and guidelines apply to even unique situations.
Division of Assets
It is important to set proper expectations and understand the state laws when splitting assets in a divorce in Illinois. Hiring an experienced family law attorney like Joel DeGrazia is the best way to ensure that you receive rights to your separate property and a fair share of marital property.
Grandparents’ Rights
When parents divorce, the primary custody focus is on the rights of the parents and the children, but there are also legal rights for grandparents in Illinois divorce cases. Joel DeGrazia prioritizes the best interests of the children, but can help you fight for appropriate grandparents rights for your family.
Parentage Matters
Paternity can be sought by a biological mother, a child, or an assumed father. By filing a petition, the assumed father is subject to DNA testing to determine paternity. Attorney Joel DeGrazia knows the importance of a favorable result when establishing or contesting parentage for both mothers and fathers.
Prenuptial Agreements
Contrary to popular belief, prenuptial agreements are not only for overly wealthy couples. The details of this legally-binding agreement outline a division of assets if divorce falls in your future. A prenuptial agreement attorney can help you with standard terms of agreement as well as clauses unique to your circumstance.
Postnuptial Agreements
A postnuptial agreement works much in the same way as a prenuptial agreement, but is crafted after a couple has entered into marriage. Courts will still scrutinize the fairness of the agreement, which is why it’s best to seek aid from a postnuptial agreement attorney.