Autism spectrum disorder is a developmental disability that can cause difficulty with communication, socialization, and behavior. The condition ranges from extremely mild to severe. Some people with autism are unable to speak or take care of themselves. Others can handle everyday tasks but need assistance with more complex responsibilities.

As a parent of an autistic child, you may face significant child-related costs. Your child may need specialized education or childcare. He or she may participate in early intervention treatment services such as behavioral therapy or speech therapy. Some parents of children with autism forgo a career and stay home to care for their child full time. Expenses can quickly add up, and these costs do not disappear once the child turns 18. Fortunately, Illinois law provides a way for parents of children with disabilities to receive child support even after the child is an adult.

Financial Assistance for Divorced and Unmarried Parents with an Autistic Child

Unmarried and divorced parents in Illinois are often subject to a child support order. Typically, child support ends when a child graduates high school or college and becomes financially independent. However, a child with autism may not achieve the same level of independence during adulthood as neurotypical children. Illinois parents in this situation may be able to extend child support payments.

Getting engaged to be married is an exciting and romantic experience. If you are like many soon-to-be spouses, you may worry that asking your partner for a prenuptial agreement will put a damper on this exciting time in your life. You may even wonder if bringing up the idea of a prenup will make him or her question the engagement.

Prenuptial agreements are massively misunderstood. Fortunately, more and more people are starting to understand the value of prenuptial agreements. Prenups are not only for celebrity couples or the ultra-wealthy. Prenuptial agreements protect both spouses’ rights and financial interests. Drafting a prenuptial agreement is also a great way to discuss crucial financial issues before you get married. The following tips can help you broach the subject in a way that is non-confrontational and low pressure.

Make it a Collaborative Venture

Many fiancé(e)s are offended by the idea of signing a prenuptial agreement because they assume that the documents only benefit one spouse in a marriage. Television shows and movies have painted a very inaccurate picture of what a prenuptial agreement actually is. Prenuptial agreements should always benefit both spouses. In fact, Illinois courts will not uphold a prenup that is “unconscionable” or grossly biased toward one spouse. Make the discussion collaborative. Instead of insisting that your partner signs a ready-made prenup, make an appointment to meet with an attorney together and discuss your questions and concerns.

Any family law issue can become hostile and non-productive. When a family law concern involving children becomes contentious, both the adults and the children involved in the dispute can suffer. In order to reduce contention and promote out-of-court resolutions to child custody issues, many Illinois courts require parents to attend mediation.

Why Are We Being Forced to Go to Mediation?

Child custody disputes are often some of the most difficult family law cases to resolve. Parents understandably have strong beliefs about their children and what is best for them. When parents cannot reach an agreement about the allocation of parental responsibilities and parenting time, the court may have to intervene. However, Illinois courts try to avoid child custody trials whenever possible. These trials can place a great strain on children and their parents. The adversarial nature of a court trial also pits parents against each other, making it even harder for them to build a cooperative co-parenting relationship in the future.

That being said, there are some situations in which mediation is not a viable solution. For example, mediation is not required or even recommended in cases involving domestic violence or child abuse.