Lakeview Family Divorce Checklist: Child-Focused Asset Protection Edition

Child-Focused Documentation

Critical First Week

Document current parenting schedules and routines

Why: Courts prioritize maintaining children's established patterns

Tip: Include school drop-off/pickup, extracurriculars, medical appointments

Compile daycare and school expense records

Why: Childcare costs factor into both support and expense allocation

Tip: Include tuition, after-school programs, summer camps, and tutoring

List all children's healthcare providers and insurance details

Why: Continuity of care and insurance allocation must be addressed

Tip: Note which parent typically handles appointments and manages care

Document each parent's involvement in children's activities

Why: Active parenting history strengthens custody positions

Tip: Collect team rosters, volunteer records, school communication logs

Photograph children's rooms and belongings at both locations

Why: Establishes baseline for personal property allocation

Tip: Include special items, comfort objects, and shared custody necessities

Family Home Protection

Do This Week

Get current appraisal of family residence

Why: Lakeview property values vary significantly by block and school district

Tip: Oscar Mayer magnet school district commands premium; reflect in appraisal

Document mortgage, property taxes, and carrying costs

Why: Determines affordability for spouse seeking to retain home

Tip: Include HOA fees, insurance, and typical maintenance costs

Review how property title is held

Why: Joint tenancy vs. tenants in common affects division options

Tip: Pre-marital purchase may have commingled through mortgage payments

Calculate home equity and buyout requirements

Why: One spouse retaining home requires compensating the other

Tip: Consider refinancing feasibility and debt-to-income ratios

Document any improvements made during marriage

Why: Renovation investments affect equity claims and valuation

Tip: Kitchen and bathroom updates in Lakeview add substantial value

Dual-Income Family Finances

Complete Within Two Weeks

Document both spouses' complete compensation packages

Why: Total compensation—not just salary—determines support calculations

Tip: Include bonuses, equity, benefits, and employer-paid insurance

List all joint accounts and establish separate banking

Why: Financial separation prevents disputes; clarity aids negotiation

Tip: Maintain joint account for children's expenses during transition

Review all subscription services and recurring charges

Why: Monthly expenses establish lifestyle for maintenance analysis

Tip: Include streaming, meal kits, gym memberships, and children's activities

Compile 529 plan and education savings balances

Why: Education funds are marital assets requiring allocation

Tip: Determine if additional contributions should pause during proceedings

Document any career sacrifices for childcare

Why: Reduced earnings for parenting affects maintenance entitlement

Tip: Track part-time schedules, declined promotions, or career pauses

Sports & Entertainment Assets

If Applicable

Document Cubs season ticket ownership and value

Why: Wrigley season tickets have substantial resale value

Tip: Personal seat licenses and ticket seniority have separate value

Catalog sports memorabilia and collectibles

Why: Signed jerseys, game balls, and vintage cards may be marital property

Tip: Get appraisals for items valued over $500

List all club memberships and associated deposits

Why: East Bank Club, country club memberships have refundable deposits

Tip: Initiation fees may be partially recoverable upon resignation

Document season subscriptions (Steppenwolf, CSO, etc.)

Why: Cultural subscriptions and donor benefits have value

Tip: Patron-level donations may include naming rights or reserved seating

Vehicle & Transportation

Document This Week

List all vehicles with titles, loans, and values

Why: Vehicle allocation affects both asset division and daily logistics

Tip: Family vehicles with car seats may stay with primary parent

Document commute patterns and transportation needs

Why: Work-from-home vs. Loop commute affects vehicle needs

Tip: Public transit viability may eliminate need for second vehicle

Review any vehicle leases and remaining terms

Why: Lease obligations continue regardless of divorce; must allocate

Tip: Check early termination penalties and transfer options

Pet Custody Preparation

If You Have Pets

Compile veterinary records and establish primary caregiver history

Why: Illinois courts now consider pet welfare in allocation

Tip: Document who handles walks, feeding, vet visits, and grooming

Document pet-related expenses

Why: Ongoing costs factor into pet allocation decisions

Tip: Include food, insurance, daycare, and dog walker costs

Consider pet's relationship with children

Why: Courts may keep pets with children for stability

Tip: Photographing kids with pets helps establish emotional bonds

Lakeview Family Divorce Checklist