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In Illinois, lawyers frequently focus on family law, personal injury, criminal defense, real estate, and business law. These areas reflect the state’s broad population and economic activity. Estate planning and probate are also common specialties, as many residents seek assistance in managing and protecting their assets. This variety ensures Illinois residents can find legal expertise suited for their personal and professional needs.

To file for divorce in Illinois, one spouse must have lived in the state for at least 90 days. The filing begins by submitting a petition to the circuit court in the county of residence. Illinois allows both no-fault and fault-based divorces, though no-fault is most common. After filing, parties exchange financial disclosures and work toward resolving issues such as property division, support, and child custody, often with the help of mediation before trial.

In Illinois, lawyers regularly represent clients facing charges such as DUI, drug possession, theft, assault, and domestic violence. These offenses occur often due to the state’s size and varied communities. Experienced Illinois attorneys understand the nuances of these cases and the penalties involved. They work closely with clients to navigate the legal system, providing strong defense and guidance to protect their rights every step of the way.

Illinois has a flat state income tax rate of 4.95% on individual income. Residents and part-year residents must file state income tax returns on income earned within Illinois. While this rate remains consistent regardless of income level, other local taxes and deductions can affect the overall tax burden. Consulting a tax professional familiar with Illinois laws helps ensure accurate tax filing and planning.

Filing a personal injury claim in Illinois begins with documenting your injuries and seeking medical care. Next, you should consult a qualified attorney who can review your case and advise on next steps. Your lawyer will gather evidence, communicate with insurance companies, and negotiate settlements. If a fair agreement isn’t reached, the claim may advance to litigation. Illinois generally has a two-year statute of limitations for personal injury claims.

In Illinois, legal custody involves the right to make major decisions for a child related to education, healthcare, and religion. Physical custody, often called parenting time, refers to where and when the child lives with each parent. Parents can share legal and physical custody jointly, or one parent may have sole responsibility. Courts focus on what best supports the child’s health, safety, and welfare when determining these arrangements.

If someone dies intestate (without a Will) in Illinois, the estate is distributed according to the state laws of intestate succession. Typically, assets pass to the surviving spouse and children. If no close relatives exist, more distant family members may inherit, or the estate could eventually go to the state. Dying without a Will means the decedent’s property may not be distributed according to their wishes, which can lead to delays and disputes among heirs.

The legal blood alcohol content (BAC) limit for drivers in Illinois is 0.08%. Commercial vehicle drivers face a lower limit of 0.04%, and drivers under 21 must maintain a BAC below 0.00 to 0.02%, depending on circumstances. Law enforcement uses breath, blood, or urine tests to measure BAC. Exceeding these limits can result in DUI charges, with penalties increasing for higher BAC levels or repeat offenses.