Raiford Palmer Named a Fellow in Collaborative Law Institute of Illinois

The Collaborative Law Institute of Illinois named Raiford D. Palmer a Fellow on May 21, 2008.  To be admitted as a Fellow requires four full days of training in collaborative technique and communication skills, submission of a detailed application, and approval by peers in the Institute.  Fellowship also requires continuing training and education.  The Collaborative Law Institute of Illinois promotes the resolution of cases collaboratively as opposed to resolving them via litigation.  The idea is to save clients from the cost of litigation both financially and emotionally, and to get families on the path to rebuilding lives and moving on sooner.  This means meeting across a conference table rather than in the courthouse - working together to settle differences in a controlled environment as opposed to using the court to decide disputes.  Mr. Palmer is proud to be associated with the Institute and believes the approach will help a large number of clients.  Not every case is suited for a collaborative approach, but we believe in the process and will be glad to discuss it with you.   Call 630.434.0400 x 165 or email Raiford Palmer.

Illinois Post Divorce Decree and Appeal Information Updated

By popular demand, we've completely overhauled our information page regarding post-judgment and post-decree remedies and family law appeals for Illinois cases.  If you don't see information here regarding any family law topic, please email to let us know.  We will try to answer your question and improve this website in the bargain, at no cost to you.  Call 630.434.0400 X 165 to discuss or simply leave a voice mail for Partner Raif Palmer or email.  We value your input and thanks for helping improve this website.

Illinois Child Support Judgments are Forever

In Illinois, judgments for child support do not expire.  A case known as In Re Saputo illustrated Illinois family law on this issue.  In that case, an ex-wife was owed a huge amount of unpaid child support and the accrued interest over a decades-long period because her ex-husband failed to pay.  Despite the fact that the last payment was due over 20 years before the attempt to collect, the child support was still due, along with all of the accrued interest (EACH child support payment is an independent judgment and accrues interest at 9% per year). 

Again - if you owe child support pursuant to a judgment, pay the support.  The judgment will not go away.  If you lose your job, make less money, or are disabled, it is your responsibility to seek a reduction in child support from the Court.  An agreement without a court order, even a written agreement, is null and void.

If you are owed a substantial amount of child support from a judgment, please call us.  You can click the "Call us" black bar below the skyline graphic near the top of any page, or call Raiford Palmer, Partner, at 630.434.0400 Ext. 165 directly to discuss your case.  The call is free.