Three Terms to Know in an Illinois Divorce

 Posted on January 23, 2014 in Divorce

Sometimes people use acronyms to shorten a phrase or term. The following terms are commonly used in matters of divorce, especially when there are children involved. When you do not understand certain terms, ask your attorney. Knowledgeable divorce attorneys  take time to explain each aspect of the process and properly prepare you for the road ahead.

What is a TRO?

A temporary restraining order (TRO) temporarily halts a specific type of activity. In a divorce, it is sometimes used to keep a party from selling off, donating or transferring ownership of marital property. Such orders are requested to handle emergent situations such as:

• Child custody
• Visitation
• Removal
• Maintenance (alimony)
• Access to a residence

A TRO can be extremely useful in obtaining short-term relief for potentially long-term issues.

What is a GAL?

A guardian ad litem, or GAL, is a court-appointed lawyer who handles legal actions on behalf of a person who is legally incompetent such as an infant or severely mentally-disabled individual. In a divorce case, the GAL will only be concerned about the best interest of the child they are assigned to. The guardian ad litem will do a thorough investigation and offer a recommendation regarding child custody and visitation arrangements that best suit the child.

The court will either decide to make the appointment or initiate the appointment of a GAL by either party’s request.

What is a Prenup?

A prenuptial agreement is often referred to as a "prenup" or premarital agreement. Such agreements are entered into before a marriage and influence the outcome of a divorce. In a prenup, both parties outline terms about issues such as marital assets, debts, child custody, and spousal maintenance. A postnuptial agreement is similar to a prenup, except that it is created during a marriage.

If you or someone you know in Chicago is heading for divorce, contact A. Traub & Associates Attorneys at Law today. We are experienced mediators and litigators who help our clients understand the process from start to finish and work aggressively to achieve the best possible results.