#child custody attorney Illinois

[chargoisharper]

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[sometimes-men-need-help-too]

ME's report says 8-year-old Amaria Osby was going to be taken from mom now accused of her murder

CHICAGO (CBS) -- Amaria Osby was the 8-year-old girl murdered by her mother in an Uptown residence for "loving her father too much".

We have now uncovered new documents that may reveal there may have been more to the motive behind Amaria's murder.

As CBS 2's Chris Tye reported Tuesday night, Amaria - who died at age 8 - was on the radar of the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services as early as age 3. The department admitted rules were not followed in this case - but we're learning the story told to us for eight months may be a very different than the one told to the mother now facing murder charges.

Last May, Amaria's mom, Andreal Hagler, tried to get her to drink bleach. Hagler later admitted to suffocating Amaria with a plastic bag - because "she loved her father more."

Just hours earlier, Amaria and her mom were visited at their Uptown apartment by state child welfare workers from DCFS.

DCFS is an office that failed even to try to make contact with the family for 60 days - after a neglect call on Amaria came in last spring.

"Sixty days? Honestly, a slap in the face," Amaria's father, DeMarcus Osby, told CBS 2's Tye in June of last year. "They could have got her. They could have got my daughter. They could have got my daughter and saved her life."

Last June, DeMarcus Osby said he was the one who placed that neglect call - and he was repeatedly denied custody of the girl. He offered his opinion on what motivated the murder.

"Because she told the truth to the agent," Osby said in June. "She told the truth. She didn't lie.

What truth did she tell?

"That her mother was beating her," Osby said.

But a report obtained by CBS 2 from the Cook County Medical Examiner's office sheds new light on what those DCFS agents saw and said to Amaria's mom hours before the crime.

"According to family members," the ME's report says. "Osby's mother had a meeting with the Department of Children and Family Services and Osby was going to be taken away from her mother and placed in the care of another guardian."

If true, it flies in the face of the DCFS version of events this June. It read: "An investigator visited the family and spoke with the mother and child. There were no noted concerns for physical abuse or neglect."

We asked DCFS if they stand behind that June statement, given the new details from the Medical Examiner's office. They issued the following statement:

"Any child death is a tragedy, and this case is no different.  An investigator from the Department of Children and Family Services visited the family and spoke with both the mother and the child on the day of the incident, assessed the child's safety and noted no concerns for abuse or neglect. If the investigator determined the child was in danger, DCFS would have taken custody immediately.  DCFS does not speculate on future actions during an ongoing investigation, and in this case, no decisions had yet been made."  

Both the DCFS worker and supervisor on this case were pulled from child protective duties.

One of them is back to caring for kids. DCFS wasn't able to offer us an update on the other.

Amaria's dad didn't want to speak Tuesday night, but his attorneys say they received these new documents today as well - and need time to process it before commenting.

https://www.cbsnews.com/chicago/news/amaria-osby-dcfs-custody-murder/

Most of the comments under the Facebook post were condemning the mother which is good. But then I saw this one: 

[beardedmrbean]

A 29-year-old convicted child sex offender in Illinois has been arrested for allegedly killing a 15-year-old high school freshman girl he was “dating,” and whose body he then tossed into a dumpster behind his home.

Timothy M. Doll was taken into custody on Sunday and charged with two counts of first-degree murder in the slaying of Gracie A. Sasso-Cleveland, court records reviewed by Law&Crime show.

In addition to the murder charges, Doll was also charged with two counts of obstruction of justice as well as one count each of aggravated criminal sex abuse, concealment of a homicide, aggravated domestic battery unlawful restraint, and unlawful communication by a child sex offender.

According to a press release from the DeKalb Police Department, officers on the evening of Saturday, May 6 received a call regarding a 15-year-old girl — later identified as Sasso-Cleveland — who had not been seen or heard from by her family since May 4. Police said Sasso-Cleveland’s phone records indicated that on May 4, she had been at 536 College Avenue in DeKalb, which is the address listed on Doll’s sex offender registration.

The registration states that Doll was previously convicted on one count each of aggravated criminal sexual abuse on a 14-year-old victim and possessing child pornography depicting a victim under the age of 13.

Investigators with the department’s Major Case Squad on the afternoon of May 7 were able to locate Sasso-Cleveland’s body inside a dumpster that was located on the property next to 536 College Avenue, the release states. After obtaining and executing several search warrants, police say they obtained evidence that led them to detain Doll the same day Sasso-Cleveland’s body was recovered. He was formally charged with her murder the following day.

At the time of his arrest, Doll was on probation for the aforementioned sexual assault of a 14-year-old. Doll had pleaded guilty to the charges on April 12, was sentenced to probation, and registered his sex offender status with DeKalb PD on April 14, police said.

The investigation revealed that Doll had been “in a dating relationship” with Sasso-Cleveland prior to her death.

According to the release, on the evening of May 4, 2023, Doll and Sasso-Cleveland were in a heated argument when Doll allegedly held Sasso-Cleveland down and “suffocated her with a pillow until she lost consciousness, to which she did not recover.”

Doll then allegedly brought her body outside and tossed her into the dumpster behind his building. After discarding the victim’s remains, investigators say that Doll removed all of  Sasso-Cleveland’s personal items from his apartment and threw away her phone in the garbage at another location.

The DeKalb County Coroner’s Office on Monday determined that Sasso-Cleveland’s official manner of death was a homicide and the cause of death was asphyxiation.

The DeKalb County Sheriff’s Office, the County State’s Attorney’s Office, and the Sycamore Police Department also assisted in the case.

“He’s a predator, and he sought out a young victim — an innocent 15-year-old girl, and snuffed her life out,” DeKalb Police Chief David Byrd said during a news conference on the case. The chief also said that he was particularly upset about the circumstances Sasso-Cleveland’s death, and urged the community to come forward when they know about such an illegal relationship.

“It angers me because I think we could’ve saved this young lady if we would’ve been notified about the situation that was occurring that night,” Byrd said.

A GoFundMe page to help cover the costs of Sasso-Cleveland’s funeral was set up by a family friend. The page states that prior to her death, Sasso-Cleveland had “just found out” that Doll “was a 29-year-old sex offender with a lengthy rap sheet.”

[auroraattorney]

Looking for a skilled and reliable family law attorney in Illinois? Ned C. Khan is here to help. With over 20 years of experience, he offers expert guidance in divorce, custody, child support, and other family law matters.

Don't hesitate to contact our office today for assistance.

[stange-law-firm]

Stange Law Firm: A Leading Advocate in Family Law

Founded in 2007 by Kirk Stange in Clayton, Missouri, Stange Law Firm has grown into one of the largest family law firms in the United States. With 25 offices spread across seven states—Missouri, Illinois, Kansas, Oklahoma, Indiana, Iowa, and Nebraska—the firm has established itself as a reliable advocate for families and individuals dealing with various family law matters. Whether assisting with adoption, paternity, child custody, or marriage dissolution, Stange Law Firm has become a trusted name in family law throughout the Midwest and South-Central regions of the U.S.

The Vision and Leadership of Kirk Stange

Kirk Stange, the firm’s co-founder and current president, has played an instrumental role in the growth and success of Stange Law Firm. With a deep commitment to family law, Kirk has not only built a reputable firm but has also made significant contributions to the legal field. He serves as the president of the Missouri Collaborative Institute, a role that highlights his dedication to advancing family law practices.

Kirk is also an accomplished author, having published works like Prenuptial Agreements Line by Line and contributed to legal treatises such as Strategies for Family Law in Illinois and Strategies for Military Family Law. His knowledge and skill have earned him numerous accolades, including recognition on the Missouri and Kansas Super Lawyers Magazine’s list for Family Law and a spot on Missouri Lawyers Media’s Weekly POWER List for Family Law. Additionally, Kirk has been named to the National Academy of Family Law Attorneys’ (NAFLA) Top 10 Attorneys for Family Law and the National Trial Lawyers Top 30 Matrimonial Lawyer.

Under Kirk’s leadership, Stange Law Firm has continually expanded its reach and influence across multiple states.

Stange Law Firm’s Comprehensive Legal Services

At its core, Stange Law Firm is dedicated to providing clients with compassionate and knowledgeable representation in family law matters. The firm handles a wide range of family law cases, including:

Adoption and Paternity: Helping clients navigate the complexities of adoption and establishing paternity, ensuring that all legal procedures are followed to protect the best interests of children and parents.

Surrogacy Agreements: Assisting couples and individuals with legal agreements surrounding surrogacy, a growing area of family law.

Child Custody and Support: Advocating for parents and ensuring that child custody and support arrangements prioritize the well-being of children.

Marriage Dissolution: Guiding clients through the emotionally charged process of divorce, including division of assets, spousal support, and child-related issues.

Mediation and Collaborative Law: Offering alternative dispute resolution methods to help clients resolve family law matters amicably, reducing the need for contentious court battles.

With its comprehensive range of services, Stange Law Firm stands out for its ability to address nearly every aspect of family law. The firm’s commitment to personalized attention ensures that clients feel supported and empowered throughout their legal journey.

Technological Innovation and Client Access

A key factor behind Stange Law Firm’s rapid growth is its innovative use of technology to improve client access and communication. Over a decade ago, the firm began offering clients 24/7 access to their case files through a secure online portal. This groundbreaking approach allows clients to stay informed about the progress of their case, review important documents, and communicate with their legal team at any time. By embracing technology, Stange Law Firm has set itself apart as a client-focused firm, prioritizing transparency and convenience.

A National Leader in Family Law

Stange Law Firm’s expansion to 25 offices across seven states is a testament to the firm’s dedication to providing exceptional legal services to families in need. From its humble beginnings in Clayton, Missouri, the firm has grown into a national leader, now the second-largest family law firm in the United States in terms of office locations.

The firm’s growth can be attributed not only to its experience in family law but also to its strong web and internet presence. Stange Law Firm has successfully harnessed the power of online resources to reach a broader audience, allowing individuals and families across the Midwest and South-Central regions to access quality legal representation.

A Commitment to Excellence and Growth

As Stange Law Firm continues to expand, its commitment to excellence remains unwavering. The firm’s growth is driven by its dedication to helping clients navigate the often-challenging waters of family law with compassion and skill. Whether clients are dealing with divorce, child custody, or adoption, Stange Law Firm offers the skill and support needed to achieve positive outcomes.

In an ever-changing legal landscape, Stange Law Firm has earned its reputation as a dependable, innovative, and client-centered firm. With a strong foundation in family law and a forward-thinking approach, the firm is well-positioned to continue its expansion and further solidify its standing as one of the top family law firms in the nation.

Conclusion

Since its founding in 2007, Stange Law Firm has become a beacon of hope for families and individuals facing complex legal challenges. Under the leadership of Kirk Stange, the firm has grown into a multi-state firm, providing compassionate and effective legal representation. As it continues to expand, Stange Law Firm remains committed to delivering exceptional service to its clients, making it a trusted name in family law across the United States.

Note: The choice of a lawyer is an important decision and should not be based solely upon advertisements. Stange Law Firm is responsible for the content with their headquarters’ office at 120 South Central Avenue, Suite 450, Clayton, Missouri 63105.

[laurelrectorfamilylaw]

Experienced Divorce Lawyers in Chicago: Compassionate Legal Support

Navigating a divorce can be challenging, but with the right legal guidance, the process becomes more manageable. At Laurel Rector Family Law, our team of experienced Divorce Lawyers in Chicago is dedicated to providing compassionate, personalized support throughout every step of your case. We understand that every family is unique, which is why we take the time to listen to your concerns and craft a legal strategy that aligns with your goals. Whether you're dealing with child custody, property division, or spousal support, our skilled attorneys will advocate for your best interests while ensuring a fair resolution. With a deep understanding of Illinois family law and a commitment to protecting your rights, we aim to make this transition as smooth as possible. Trust Laurel Rector Family Law to provide the expertise and care you need during this difficult time.

[andersonbobackandmarshall]

Learn how to enforce Illinois court orders for child support, alimony, and custody. Contact our family law attorneys for expert help.

[ashiq1233]

Stange Law Firm’s Kirk Stange Has Cracked the Code for Success in Family Law

Read about Stange Law Firm and Kirk Stange and how they cracked the code for success in the family law arena.

Attorney Kirk Stange, founding partner and president of Stange Law Firm, has become a highly-respected leader in the field of family law for his focus on growth and client-first approach to business. As a result of his growth-driven mindset, he has nine offices in his home state of Missouri, along with sixteen offices in other states such as Illinois, Kansas, Oklahoma, Nebraska, Indiana, and Iowa.

Iowa is the most recent target of Stange Law Firm’s expansion, with offices opening in Des Moines earlier this year and the newest location opening in Cedar Rapids. Today, Stange Law Firm presently employs 54 attorneys, with plans to add more, who practice law in areas such as divorce, family law, child custody, paternity, estate planning, and alternative dispute resolution.

[murphydunn]

Navigating Divorce with Expert Guidance: Your Peoria IL Divorce Attorney

Facing a divorce in Peoria, IL, can be overwhelming, but having the right attorney can make all the difference. Murphy Law Group is your trusted Peoria IL divorce attorney, offering compassionate support and expert legal guidance throughout this challenging time. Murphy Law Group specialises in family law, with a focus on divorce cases in Peoria, IL. They bring extensive knowledge of Illinois divorce laws and a commitment to achieving the best possible outcomes for their clients.

Their approach is client-centred and personalised. They understand that every divorce is unique, and they tailor their strategies to meet the individual needs and goals of each client. Whether it's negotiating fair asset division, determining child custody arrangements, or navigating spousal support, Murphy Law Group is dedicated to protecting your rights and interests.

[resolvium]

Divorce is a sensitive and complex process, but it doesn’t have to be adversarial. In Grover Beach, Resolvium offers expert divorce mediation services with dedicated attorneys who specialize in helping couples navigate separation with dignity and respect.

A Personalized Approach to Mediation

At Resolvium, we understand that every divorce is unique. Our skilled mediation attorneys in Grover Beach tailor their approach to suit your specific needs and circumstances. We prioritize communication and collaboration, empowering you to make informed decisions about your future.

Benefits of Divorce Mediation

Choosing mediation over traditional litigation offers numerous advantages. It’s often faster, more cost-effective, and less stressful. By opting for mediation, couples retain greater control over the outcome, fostering a cooperative atmosphere that lays the groundwork for post-divorce relationships.

Why Choose Resolvium?

Our team comprises seasoned mediation professionals with a proven track record of success. We provide unbiased guidance, ensuring fairness and equity throughout the negotiation process. Whether resolving financial matters, child custody arrangements, or property division, Resolvium is committed to achieving equitable solutions that prioritize your interests.

Experience Peace of Mind

With Resolvium’s divorce mediation services in Grover Beach, you can expect compassionate support and expert legal guidance every step of the way. We are dedicated to helping you navigate this challenging time with integrity and clarity.

[loud-queer-diversity13]

Key Issues on LGBTQIA Part Two

Parents

This is our definition of the LGBT community on same-sex parenting issues. Only a few states have made it legal for gay couples to have children together. California, Colorado, Connecticut, Washington, D.C., Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Maine, Massachusetts, Montana, New Jersey, New York, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, and Vermont are among the states that allow same-sex couples to adopt a second parent. Adoption agencies are legally permitted in five states to refuse adoptions to same-sex couples on the grounds of their sexual orientation. Only California forbids discrimination in adoptions based on gender identity and sexual orientation. This is how parents of the same sex handle raising a child: However, there is still more to learn about lesbian mothers of teenagers and young adults and other family structures led by parents who identify as sexual minorities, such as gay fathers adopted from adoption, gay fathers through surrogacy, gay single fathers, lesbian single mothers, bisexual parents, elective lesbian and gay co-parents, transgender, non-binary, and genderqueer parents. All family arrangements challenge the dominant, hetero-normative family models. Still, they differ in specific ways depending on how factors like parents' gender, children's conception technique, partner dynamics, and parenthood decision-making intersect. What are some potential solutions for raising a child in a same-sex relationship? Understand the laws and rules in your state. The legislation about same-sex adoptions varies from state to state. These laws can occasionally differ significantly between states. Investigate everything you can about the laws in your state as a first step. Working with an attorney who specializes in LGBT adoption is also advised because they are knowledgeable about the regulations and can guide you toward the most effective adoption route. All 50 states now allow same-sex couples to adopt children. Some unique guidelines regarding joint custody and parental rights before beginning the adoption process. Think about all your adoption choices. Consider all your alternatives before selecting the adoption type to pursue.

[chargoisharper]

If you want to know who makes decisions in probate, Contact our experienced Probate attorney in Chicago IL at 872-252-7949.

[beardedmrbean]

A 36-year-old man abandoned his 9-month-old child at home as he robbed a bank, Illinois authorities say.

The McHenry Police Department said the robbery happened around 10:45 a.m. Monday, May 6, at a Huntington Bank.

Peter Sova brandished what appeared to be a handgun as he passed a note to a teller, demanding money, police said. He is accused of fleeing the bank on foot after receiving an undisclosed amount of cash.

Police said they captured Sova “shortly after” the robbery. He was detained in a field on the property of a church in McHenry.

As officers were investigating, they learned he had left his 9-month-old child alone at home, according to a news release from the police department. Police took the baby into protective custody, and the boy was eventually released into the custody of his mother.

Sova was charged with aggravated robbery, theft of more than $500 and child abandonment, police said. He was placed in the McHenry County Jail in Woodstock.

In 2021, Sova was sentenced to four years in prison after being found guilty of residential burglary. The McHenry County State’s Attorney’s Office said he entered a home looking for money, and he was detained by the home’s residents.

Woodstock is about a 60-mile drive northwest of Chicago.

[auroraattorney]

Looking for a trusted and experienced family law attorney in Illinois? Look no further than Ned C. Khan! With over 20 years of experience, he can guide you through divorce, custody, child support, and more.

Don't hesitate to contact our office today for assistance.

[stange-law-firm]

Stange Law Firm Discusses the Benefits of Prenuptial Agreements

Prenuptial agreements (prenups) have become increasingly common in modern marriages. According to a 2022 study by market research firm Harris Poll, 15% of married or engaged couples had signed prenups, a significant rise from the 3% recorded in 2010. Once thought to be necessary only for the wealthy, more couples across the country are realizing the practical benefits of establishing a prenuptial agreement before marriage. Stange Law Firm, a leader in family law with offices across seven states, offers insights into why prenuptial agreements are important for today’s couples.

The Focus of Stange Law Firm

At the forefront of Stange Law Firm is attorney Kirk Stange, a seasoned practitioner in family law. As the head of the second-largest family law firm in the United States, Kirk Stange has seen firsthand how contentious marital disputes can turn into lengthy legal battles. Stange Law Firm, headquartered in Clayton, Missouri, now has 25 offices across Missouri, Iowa, Illinois, Indiana, Nebraska, Oklahoma and Kansas. The firm’s extensive experience in handling divorce cases makes them a valuable resource for couples considering the benefits of a prenuptial agreement.

Kirk Stange’s work has not gone unnoticed. He has been recognized on Missouri Lawyers Media’s POWER List for Family Law, and his knowledge on prenuptial agreements culminated in his book, Prenuptial Agreements Line by Line. Through his years of experience, Kirk has developed a deep understanding of how prenuptial agreements can streamline divorce proceedings, offering couples a sense of security and protection for their assets.

Why Couples Should Consider a Prenup

One of the most significant reasons to consider a prenuptial agreement is the ability to simplify divorce proceedings. According to Kirk Stange, “A prenuptial agreement can resolve divorce issues such as property and debt division, spousal maintenance, and attorney’s fees.” In many cases, the division of assets and debts can become the most contentious part of a divorce. Disagreements over houses, vehicles, retirement funds, and other financial assets often lead to extended court battles. A well-crafted prenuptial agreement allows couples to agree on these terms in advance, avoiding the potential stress and financial burden of prolonged legal disputes.

Prenuptial agreements are not only beneficial for couples with substantial wealth. They can protect any couple from the complexities of dividing joint property and debts. Cars, real estate, and investments are common points of contention during divorce proceedings, and a prenuptial agreement allows couples to define ownership and distribution of these assets beforehand.

In cases where there are no children, a prenuptial agreement can potentially resolve all major divorce-related issues. Kirk Stange explains, “Where there are no kids, a well-crafted prenuptial agreement can fully resolve all the issues in a divorce.” This not only saves time and resources but also reduces the emotional toll often associated with lengthy divorce litigation.

The Limits of Prenuptial Agreements

While prenuptial agreements can simplify many aspects of divorce, they are not a catch-all solution. For instance, Kirk Stange notes, “Where there are kids, the only issues that would remain on the table would be child custody and child support-related issues.” Family courts retain the authority to decide matters related to child custody and support based on what is in the best interests of the children. Prenuptial agreements cannot predetermine child-related arrangements, and couples should be prepared to navigate these decisions through the court system if necessary.

However, by addressing financial matters, prenuptial agreements can allow couples to focus more on resolving child-related issues without the added pressure of dividing assets. This can provide a smoother and less stressful process for both parties.

Is a Prenup Right for Every Couple?

While the rise in prenuptial agreements suggests that more couples are considering this legal protection, it may not be the best option for everyone. Couples with little to no assets or debts may not see the necessity of a prenup, while others may be uncomfortable discussing the prospect of divorce before marriage. However, for couples with significant financial interests or those who want to avoid potential conflicts in the future, a prenuptial agreement can be a wise choice.

It’s essential for couples to discuss their goals and expectations before making a decision. Consulting an experienced family law attorney, such as those at Stange Law Firm, can provide valuable insights into the pros and cons of prenuptial agreements. An attorney can help draft a fair and enforceable agreement that protects both parties while fostering open communication about financial matters.

Conclusion

In today’s evolving marital landscape, prenuptial agreements are becoming more common, and for good reason. They offer couples a practical way to protect their assets, avoid lengthy legal battles, and reduce the stress of divorce proceedings. Stange Law Firm, under the leadership of Kirk Stange, is dedicated to helping couples navigate these important decisions with skill and compassion. Whether you’re considering a prenuptial agreement or facing a divorce, Stange Law Firm is there to provide the guidance and support needed to make informed decisions for your future.

Note: The choice of a lawyer is an important decision and should not be based solely upon advertisements. Stange Law Firm is responsible for the content with their headquarters’ office at 120 South Central Avenue, Suite 450, Clayton, Missouri 63105.

[laurelrectorfamilylaw]

Top Divorce Lawyers in Chicago – Law Office of Laurel Black Rector

At the Law Office of Laurel Black Rector, we offer compassionate and expert legal support for your divorce lawyers in chicago. Our experienced team of divorce attorneys is committed to guiding you through every step of the process, ensuring your rights and best interests are protected. Whether dealing with child custody, property division, or spousal support, we provide tailored solutions that prioritize your needs. With a client-centered approach and extensive knowledge of Illinois family law, we strive to deliver favorable outcomes with sensitivity and professionalism. Trust our skilled Chicago divorce lawyers to help you move forward confidently. Contact us today for a consultation!