I have been asked several times recently whether a same-gender couple that married outside of Illinois should enter into a civil union in Illinois. A couple that married or entered into a civil union in another jurisdiction does not need to do anything for their legal status to be recognized in Illinois. As long as their marriage or similar legal relationship was valid in the jurisdiction in which it was obtained, it will be recognized as a civil union in Illinois.
Order of Protection for Domestic Violence
Unfortunately, some Chicago divorces or Chicago child custody disputes involve domestic violence. When domestic violence, or the threat of domestic violence, occurs a victim may petition the court for an order of protection. An order of protection is a court order...