Divorce Isn’t a Dirty Word — Let’s Talk About It

Insight from an Illinois Divorce Attorney Who’s Pretty Much Seen It All

Let’s face it — no one walks down the aisle thinking, “Can’t wait to divide the house and fight about the dog someday.” But here’s the truth: life happens. People grow. Circumstances change. And sometimes, the healthiest next step is going your separate ways.

As an experienced divorce lawyer based in Cook County, I’ve seen firsthand how the word “divorce” makes people flinch — like it’s a failure or something shameful. But I want to shift that perspective. Divorce isn’t the end of your story. It’s a transition. And with the right support, it can be a powerful one.

Divorce in Cook County: What You Need to Know

Illinois is a no-fault divorce state — meaning you don’t have to prove someone did something wrong to get divorced. The only legal requirement is that “irreconcilable differences” have led to the breakdown of the marriage. If you’ve been living apart for six months, that’s generally enough to show the court that reconciliation isn’t likely.

Cook County, where I practice most often, is the busiest divorce jurisdiction in the state. That means timelines, procedures, and even judge availability can look different here than they do in surrounding counties. The advantage? I know how to navigate the system, and I know what works in a Cook County courtroom.

Whether your case is heard at the Daley Center downtown or in one of the suburban district courts, the goal is the same: helping you move forward with clarity, dignity, and strength.

Got Kids? A House? A Business?

Every divorce is different. In Cook County, you might be managing a shared home in the city, coordinating parenting schedules between neighborhoods, or dividing a business you built together. Whatever your case looks like, we’ll tailor the strategy to your reality.

• Parents: Illinois moved away from the old “custody and visitation” language — now we talk about parenting time and decision-making responsibilities. It’s a more modern, child-centered approach.
• High-asset or complex cases: Real estate, investments, business ownership — these are all common in Cook County divorces. Having a litigator in your corner helps you protect what matters.
• Uncontested divorces: Not every split has to be a battle. If you and your spouse agree on the terms, I can help you finalize everything efficiently and with as little stress as possible.

Divorce Is Emotional — Even in a Legal System

I’ve had clients cry over who gets the holiday decorations. Others feel guilt or fear even after years of emotional separation. That’s all normal. I don’t just file documents — I listen. I advocate. I keep you grounded when things get overwhelming. And most but not least, I truly care!

Here’s what most people don’t expect: Divorce is often more emotional than legal. Sure, we’re dividing assets and negotiating parenting time, but behind every issue is a shared life, full of memories, hopes and expectations.

A Note to LGBTQ+ Clients: I See You

Cook County is one of the most diverse areas in Illinois, and I’m proud to represent clients of all backgrounds, identities, and family structures. Whether you’re facing unique challenges around parenting, property division, or legal recognition of your relationship pre-marriage equality, you deserve a lawyer who understands the nuances and fights for your rights with respect and experience.

Final Thoughts: You Deserve Clarity

Thinking about divorce — or even just feeling unsure about your relationship — doesn’t make you weak. It means you’re human. And you’re allowed to ask questions.

A consultation isn’t a commitment. It’s just a conversation. I’ll walk you through the process, explain your options, and help you decide what comes next — without judgment, pressure, or fluff.

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I’m based conveniently in Northbrook, Cook County and offer confidential consultations to anyone needing guidance on divorce or family law. Please contact us so we can get you some answers — and maybe even some peace of mind.

from Debbie Cohen https://cohenfamilylawyer.com/compassionate-divorce-support-cook-county/

How Social Media Can Ruin Your Divorce or Custody Case

In today’s digital world, social media plays a major role in how we connect, share, and express ourselves. But if you’re going through a divorce or custody battle, your online presence can become your worst enemy. What you post—no matter how innocent it may seem—can be used against you in court.

As an experienced family lawyer in Illinois, I’ve seen firsthand how social media can negatively impact cases, from maintenance and child support disputes to custody rulings. If you’re in the middle of a family law case, here’s what you need to know before you hit “post.”

1. Social Media Can Be Used as Evidence

Many people assume their social media accounts are private, but in reality, anything you post can become evidence in a divorce or custody case. Courts can allow social media posts, messages, and even deleted content to be introduced as proof of financial misconduct, bad parenting, or dishonesty.

Example: A spouse claims they can’t afford child support but posts pictures of expensive vacations or new purchases. Their ex can use this against them to challenge their financial claims.

Example: A parent seeking primary custody is tagged in photos of late-night parties or posts about excessive drinking. This could be used to argue they don’t provide a stable environment for the child.Takeaway Lesson: Assume anything and everything you post could be ultimately seen by a judge and used to weaken your case.

2. Deleted Posts Are Not Always Gone

You might think you can delete a post, but it’s not that simple. Screenshots, archived data, and even court orders can recover deleted posts. Opposing attorneys often track a spouse’s social media to find inconsistencies in their statements and damaging evidence.

Example: A father claims he has suddenly become unemployed and is seeking modification of child support to reflect his lower income. He then posts himself on a luxurious vacation at a fancy resort. If the court discovers he lied, it could hurt his credibility in the support case.

Example: A mother claims she cannot work due to a disability but posts a video of herself at a high-intensity workout. This can be used to challenge her need for spousal support.

Takeaway Lesson: If you don’t want it seen in court, don’t post it in the first place.

3. Messaging Apps Are Not Always Private

Text messages and direct messages (DMs) on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Snapchat are not always as private as you think. Courts can subpoena these messages in divorce and custody cases.

Example: A parent harasses or threatens their ex through DMs. This could be used to justify a restraining order or limit their custody rights.

Takeaway Lesson: If you wouldn’t want a judge reading your messages, don’t send them.

4. Location Check-Ins & Tags Can Work Against You

Many people don’t realize that checking in at places or being tagged by friends can reveal more than they intend.

Example: A parent tells the court they were home with their child, but their social media shows they checked into a bar at 11 PM.

Takeaway Lesson: Avoid location check-ins and ask friends to stop tagging you in posts during your case.

5. What Should You Do? Smart Social Media Habits During Divorce

If you’re going through a divorce or custody case, take these steps to protect yourself online:

Pause Social Media Use – The safest option is to stay off social media until your case is resolved.
Increase Privacy Settings – Set accounts to private, but remember, nothing is truly private.
Avoid Posting About Your Case – Do not rant about your ex, the judge, opposing counsel, or the legal system online.
Think Before You Post – If you’re unsure whether a post could hurt you in court, don’t post it. Remember, if you have kids, they can even see it!
Monitor What Others Post About You – Ask friends not to tag you in photos or check-ins.

Final Thoughts

Social media can be a ticking time bomb in your divorce or custody case. A single post, comment, or tag can change the outcome of your case. If you have questions about how social media could affect your situation, contact an experienced Illinois family lawyer like Debbie Cohen for guidance.

If you need legal advice about divorce, child custody, or any family law issue, I’m here to help. Schedule a consultation today with Cohen Law LLC.

from Debbie Cohen https://cohenfamilylawyer.com/divorce-and-custody-social-media-mistakes/