Attorneys representing clients in a dissolution of marriage action face numerous issues, especially at the start of the proceedings. This handbook will guide the attorney in deciding whether to take a dissolution case, managing the clients and the opening steps, and dealing with the court in an effective and professional manner. Topics covered include pleadings, invalidity of marriage, absent spouses, discovery, and attorneys’ fees. The handbook contains a variety of sample forms, language, allegations, and prayers, including a Petition for Dissolution of Marriage, a Request for Production of Documents, a Qualified Protective Order, and initial interview and case evaluation checklists.
Chapter 1 — Practical and Ethical Considerations
A. Lou Benassi, Benassi & Benassi, P.C., and Richard W. Zuckerman, Law Offices of Richard W. Zuckerman, Peoria
Chapter 2 — Attorneys’ Fees
David C. Ainley, Katz & Stefani, LLC, and David P. Pasulka, David P. Pasulka & Associates P.C., Chicago
Chapter 3 — Pleadings Under the Illinois Marriage and Dissolution of Marriage Act
Allison A. Stein, Samantha Bell Sugarman, and Molly R. Schiller, Griffin McCarthy & Rice LLP, Chicago
Chapter 4 — Declaration of Invalidity of Marriage
David P. Pasulka, David P. Pasulka & Associates P.C., and James M. Quigley, Beermann LLP, Chicago
Chapter 5 — Divorce Against the Absent Spouse
Derek J. Bradford, Bradford & Gordon, LLC, Chicago
Chapter 6 — Discovery
Jay D. Stein, Bernstein Law Firm LLC, Chicago
Chapter 7 — Client Management and Education
Karen M. Pinkert-Lieb and Timothy M. Daw, Schiller DuCanto and Fleck LLP, Chicago
