Illinois Divorce Guide | Expert Advice for Navigating Divorce in Illinois

Bobby Buchanan | Illinois Divorce Lawyer
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The Illinois Divorce Guide Podcast, hosted by Greer Howard and seasoned Illinois divorce attorney Bobby Buchanan, is your essential resource for navigating the complexities of divorce in Illinois. This podcast is designed to break down the overwhelming and stressful divorce process into easy-to-understand steps and concepts, helping you make informed decisions during this challenging time.Each episode covers crucial aspects of the divorce process, from understanding legal procedures and financial implications to managing emotional stress and co-parenting dynamics. With expert insights from Bobby Buchanan and engaging discussions led by Greer Howard, listeners will gain the knowledge and confidence needed to approach their divorce with clarity and composure. Whether you're considering divorce, in the midst of it, or seeking post-divorce guidance, the Illinois Divorce Guide Podcast provides the support and information you need to navigate this life transition more smoothly. Tune in to transform from feeling overwhelmed to becoming well-informed, every step of the way.Need help navigating the divorce process? You can find us at https://www.rbbfirm.com/ or email us at info@rbbfirm.com.

  1. 5D AGO

    46. What Does “Fair” Actually Mean in a Divorce?

    When people begin the divorce process, one word comes up again and again: fair. But what does “fair” actually mean under Illinois divorce law and is it even something the court is designed to deliver? In this episode of the Illinois Divorce Guide Podcast, Greer Howard and Bobby Buchanan unpack why the idea of fairness can be one of the most emotionally charged (and misleading) expectations in divorce. They explore how fear, pain, and the unknown fuel the desire for things to feel “fair,” why Illinois law focuses on equitable rather than equal outcomes, and how holding tightly to fairness can actually make the process longer, more expensive, and more draining. Bobby explains why divorce is rarely perfect or precise, how over-lawyering can backfire, and why litigating from a place of pain or revenge often hurts you more than your spouse. They also discuss common stalling tactics, emotional “pain traps,” and how to reframe your mindset so you can move forward in a more grounded, pragmatic way. In this episode, you’ll learn: Why “fair” isn’t a legal standard in Illinois divorce lawThe difference between equitable and equal division of propertyHow fear and emotional pain drive unrealistic expectationsWhy trying to make your spouse “feel the same pain” can backfireHow over-litigating increases cost without improving outcomesA healthier mindset to carry through the divorce processIf you’re feeling stuck on the idea of fairness or worried about being taken advantage of, this episode offers a powerful perspective shift that can help you navigate divorce more strategically and with far less emotional toll. Disclaimer: This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Please consult a professional for legal guidance specific to your situation. Connect with Us: 📺 Watch More on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@illinoisdivorcetv/ 🌐 Learn More: https://www.rbbfirm.com 📞 Consult Bobby’s Firm: 312-757-4833 📧 Email: info@rbbfirm.com If you found this episode helpful, be sure to subscribe, rate, and review to help others going through the divorce process.

    28 min

  2. FEB 3

    45. Parenting Time, Child Support & the Financial Reality of Divorce

    Divorce doesn’t just change your relationship — it reshapes your finances in ways many parents don’t expect. In this episode of the Illinois Divorce Guide Podcast, Greer Howard is joined by top Illinois divorce attorney Bobby Buchanan to break down one of the most misunderstood (and emotionally charged) financial realities of divorce: how parenting time and child support directly impact your financial future. Greer and Bobby walk through how Illinois child support guidelines actually work, why the court prioritizes formulas over fairness, and how parenting time percentages can drastically change child support obligations. They also unpack the difficult truth that courts expect both households to remain stable, even when that feels financially impossible and why this assumption can be especially challenging for stay-at-home parents navigating divorce. This honest conversation is designed to help you avoid being blindsided, understand your options, and make more informed decisions for yourself and your children during the divorce process. In this episode, you’ll learn: How Illinois calculates child support using strict income-share formulasWhy child support is not based on “fairness” or affordabilityHow parenting time percentages (40% vs. 50/50) can dramatically change support amountsWhy some parents fight for parenting time for financial reasons and how courts view thatWhen and how parents can agree to creative child support arrangementsWhy courts expect both parents to maintain stable homes after divorceThe hidden risks stay-at-home parents should understand before and during divorcePractical advice for rebuilding financial independence after divorceIf you’re going through a divorce or even just thinking about one - this episode offers clarity, preparation, and hope through some of the hardest financial truths parents face. Disclaimer: This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Please consult a professional for legal guidance specific to your situation. Connect with Us: 📺 Watch More on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@illinoisdivorcetv/ 🌐 Learn More: https://www.rbbfirm.com 📞 Consult Bobby’s Firm: 312-757-4833 📧 Email: info@rbbfirm.com If you found this episode helpful, be sure to subscribe, rate, and review to help others going through the divorce process.

    20 min

  3. JAN 27

    44. The Hidden Financial Drains of Divorce: Why Conflict Costs You More

    In this episode of the Illinois Divorce Guide Podcast, host Greer Howard and Illinois divorce attorney Bobby Buchanan continue their conversation on the hidden financial “money drains” that can quietly derail a divorce. This week’s focus zeroes in on one of the most expensive and underestimated costs of divorce: conflict. Bobby explains how even small disagreements can snowball into months of litigation, five-figure legal bills, and emotional exhaustion — often without producing better outcomes. Greer and Bobby also unpack several other common financial drains, including delays caused by disorganization, avoiding financial documents, slow decision-making, and fighting over items that ultimately don’t matter. Throughout the episode, Bobby shares practical strategies for reducing conflict, moving the process forward efficiently, and keeping emotions from driving costly decisions all with the goal of helping listeners protect both their finances and their peace of mind during divorce. You’ll learn: Why conflict is often the most expensive line item in a divorceHow avoiding financial documents can actually cost you moreWhy time equals money in divorce and how delays drive up feesHow emotional decision-making leads to unnecessary financial drainsWhy fighting over small personal items can distract from major assetsPractical ways to reduce conflict and keep your divorce moving forwardDisclaimer: This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Please consult a professional for legal guidance specific to your situation. Connect with Us: 📺 Watch More on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@illinoisdivorcetv/ 🌐 Learn More: https://www.rbbfirm.com 📞 Consult Bobby’s Firm: 312-757-4833 📧 Email: info@rbbfirm.com If you found this episode helpful, be sure to subscribe, rate, and review to help others going through the divorce process.

    23 min

  4. JAN 20

    43. The Harsh Financial Truths of Divorce: What No One Tells You

    Divorce is emotionally hard but for many people, the financial shock is what hits the hardest. In this episode of the Illinois Divorce Guide Podcast, host Greer Howard sits down with Illinois divorce attorney Bobby Buchanan to kick off a new series on the 10 harsh financial truths of divorce starting with the realities no one likes to talk about. Together, they break down four critical financial truths that can make or break your divorce experience: Why divorce almost always doubles your living costsWhy liquidity (cash) matters more than net worth during a divorceHow temporary support orders work and how quickly they can impact your financesThe hidden danger of emotional spending during an already stressful timeBobby shares practical guidance on budgeting, planning ahead, avoiding costly court battles, and working collaboratively whenever possible to reduce financial damage. This episode is an essential listen if you’re considering divorce, currently going through it, or simply want to understand the financial realities involved. 🎧 If finances feel overwhelming right now, this conversation will help you replace panic with clarity and strategy. Disclaimer: This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Please consult a professional for legal guidance specific to your situation. Connect with Us: 📺 Watch More on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@illinoisdivorcetv/ 🌐 Learn More: https://www.rbbfirm.com 📞 Consult Bobby’s Firm: 312-757-4833 📧 Email: info@rbbfirm.com If you found this episode helpful, be sure to subscribe, rate, and review to help others going through the divorce process.

    31 min

  5. JAN 13

    42. What Happens After a Temporary Parenting Time Hearing in Illinois?

    In this episode of the Illinois Divorce Guide Podcast, Greer Howard and Bobby Buchanan wrap up their series on temporary parenting time hearings by focusing on what happens after the hearing and how to move forward calmly, strategically, and child-focused. Bobby explains what to expect once a judge issues a temporary ruling, how to live out a court-ordered schedule, and how these temporary decisions can influence your case long term. They also answer common listener questions and share practical tips to help parents avoid common pitfalls during this emotionally charged phase. In this episode, you’ll learn: What happens immediately after a temporary parenting time hearingWhy the written court order matters more than what you heard in courtHow to handle a temporary schedule you don’t love (without hurting your case)What judges are really looking for when making parenting decisionsHow to protect your kids from conflict and avoid emotional misstepsAnswers to common questions about court etiquette, witnesses, recordings, and moreThis episode is especially helpful if you’re feeling anxious, frustrated, or unsure about how to navigate life after a temporary parenting time ruling. Disclaimer: This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Please consult a professional for legal guidance specific to your situation. Connect with Us: 📺 Watch More on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@illinoisdivorcetv/ 🌐 Learn More: https://www.rbbfirm.com 📞 Consult Bobby’s Firm: 312-757-4833 📧 Email: info@rbbfirm.com If you found this episode helpful, be sure to subscribe, rate, and review to help others going through the divorce process.

    29 min

  6. JAN 6

    41. Inside the Courtroom: What Happens During a Temporary Custody Hearing

    Stepping into a courtroom for the first time can feel intimidating especially when the stakes involve your children. In this episode of the Illinois Divorce Guide Podcast, Greer Howard and Illinois divorce attorney Bobby Buchanan continue their conversation about temporary parenting time hearings, focusing on what actually happens inside the courtroom and how to prepare yourself mentally and emotionally. Bobby breaks down courtroom flow, judge expectations, and why temporary custody hearings are not about “winning” or proving who’s the better parent but about creating stability for your children right now. From how to address a judge to what happens if you don’t like the temporary order, this episode offers practical guidance to help you walk into court informed, calmer, and more confident. In this episode, you’ll learn: Why judges focus on the best interest of the child, not parental faultWhat to expect when your case is called and how hearings typically unfoldWhy negotiation is almost always preferred over forcing a hearingHow pre-hearing conferences and judges’ recommendations workHow to answer a judge’s questions clearly and effectivelyWhat happens if you disagree with a temporary parenting time orderHow your behavior after the hearing can impact future court decisionsWhether you’re preparing for your first court appearance or trying to understand the process better, this episode helps demystify what can otherwise feel like an overwhelming experience. 🎧 Tune in to learn how to approach your temporary parenting time hearing with clarity, confidence, and your child’s best interests at the center. Disclaimer: This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Please consult a professional for legal guidance specific to your situation. Connect with Us: 📺 Watch More on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@illinoisdivorcetv/ 🌐 Learn More: https://www.rbbfirm.com 📞 Consult Bobby’s Firm: 312-757-4833 📧 Email: info@rbbfirm.com If you found this episode helpful, be sure to subscribe, rate, and review to help others going through the divorce process.

    23 min

  7. 12/30/2025

    40. What to Expect at a Temporary Parenting Time Hearing in Illinois

    Going to court for a temporary parenting time hearing can feel intimidating especially when your kids are involved. In this episode, top Illinois divorce attorney Bobby Buchanan walks you through exactly what to expect before a temporary parenting plan hearing so you can show up prepared, confident, and child-focused. They cover how to prepare for court, what documents actually matter (and which ones don’t), how judges think about temporary parenting schedules, and why mindset is just as important as logistics. Bobby also explains common mistakes parents make, how to present yourself in the courtroom, and why trying to reach an agreement outside of court is often the best outcome for everyone involved, especially your children. This is part one of a two-part conversation. In the next episode, Greer and Bobby will dive into what actually happens once the hearing begins and you’re sworn in. In this episode, you’ll learn: What a temporary parenting time hearing is (and what it’s not)How to prepare before you walk into the courtroomWhat evidence judges actually care about in these hearingsWhy focusing on your child, not “winning” matters mostHow to present yourself and avoid common courtroom pitfallsWhen conflict rises to a level that requires more court involvement 🎧 Tune in to feel more informed, less anxious, and better prepared for what’s ahead. Disclaimer: This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Please consult a professional for legal guidance specific to your situation. Connect with Us: 📺 Watch More on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@illinoisdivorcetv/ 🌐 Learn More: https://www.rbbfirm.com 📞 Consult Bobby’s Firm: 312-757-4833 📧 Email: info@rbbfirm.com If you found this episode helpful, be sure to subscribe, rate, and review to help others going through the divorce process.

    25 min

  8. 12/23/2025

    39. Understanding Child Support Add-Ons in Illinois: What You Really Need to Know

    In this episode of the Illinois Divorce Guide Podcast, Greer Howard and top Illinois family law attorney Bobby Buchanan dive deep into one of the most confusing parts of child support: add-ons. These extra expenses like health insurance, uncovered medical bills, childcare, daycare, extracurricular activities, and school costs can often make up the bulk of the financial impact during and after divorce. And while the base support number is calculated by the state’s income-shares model, add-ons follow their own set of rules that many people don’t understand until they're already overwhelmed. Bobby breaks down:  ✔️ How health insurance premiums are split  ✔️ What happens with uncovered medical bills (and why negotiation matters)  ✔️ Why childcare and daycare can drastically shift finances  ✔️ How extracurriculars and school expenses are typically handled  ✔️ Whether 50/50 parenting time means 50/50 add-on expenses (spoiler: not always)  ✔️ Pitfalls people don't anticipate like reimbursement timing and failing to update agreements  ✔️ Real-life examples and hypotheticals that show how quickly expenses can change as kids grow They also discuss why some parents find the financial transition shocking, how to avoid unnecessary attorney fees, and what to do if circumstances suddenly change like job loss or an ex dropping insurance coverage. If you're navigating child support in Illinois, this episode will help you understand what the law requires, what’s negotiable, and where flexibility is key. ✨ Listen now to feel prepared—not blindsided—when it comes to child support add-ons. Disclaimer: This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Please consult a professional for legal guidance specific to your situation. Connect with Us: 📺 Watch More on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@illinoisdivorcetv/ 🌐 Learn More: https://www.rbbfirm.com 📞 Consult Bobby’s Firm: 312-757-4833 📧 Email: info@rbbfirm.com If you found this episode helpful, be sure to subscribe, rate, and review to help others going through the divorce process.

    40 min
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The Illinois Divorce Guide Podcast, hosted by Greer Howard and seasoned Illinois divorce attorney Bobby Buchanan, is your essential resource for navigating the complexities of divorce in Illinois. This podcast is designed to break down the overwhelming and stressful divorce process into easy-to-understand steps and concepts, helping you make informed decisions during this challenging time.Each episode covers crucial aspects of the divorce process, from understanding legal procedures and financial implications to managing emotional stress and co-parenting dynamics. With expert insights from Bobby Buchanan and engaging discussions led by Greer Howard, listeners will gain the knowledge and confidence needed to approach their divorce with clarity and composure. Whether you're considering divorce, in the midst of it, or seeking post-divorce guidance, the Illinois Divorce Guide Podcast provides the support and information you need to navigate this life transition more smoothly. Tune in to transform from feeling overwhelmed to becoming well-informed, every step of the way.Need help navigating the divorce process? You can find us at https://www.rbbfirm.com/ or email us at info@rbbfirm.com.

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