#child custody attorney Illinois

[chargoisharper]

Create your Advance Healthcare Directive with Chargois Harper. Ensure your medical wishes are honored. For more information schedule a free consultation with our experienced advanced healthcare directive attorney. 

[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.”

[michaleideas]

Factors that Can Help You Choose A Divorce and Family Law Firm

At Stange Law Firm, PC, we presently have multi-state office locations in Missouri, Illinois, Kansas, Oklahoma, Nebraska, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, and Texas. We also have more expansion coming. We often recommend that clients look for attorneys with certain traits as set forth below:

The right kind of experience:Experience is critical when choosing a divorce attorney. You should pick a divorce attorney who exclusively practices divorce and family law, who is familiar with the courts in your county, and who is knowledgeable about the area of law and/or is willing to put in the time and energy to research it.

Family law focus: We only represent clients in divorce, family law, and related matters. Our divorce attorneys are familiar with the law and how it affects our clients here.

The time to adequately handle your concerns:It is also critical to work with a divorce lawyer who makes time for you. While some handle so many cases that they only see you at the initial consultation and in court, others will make time to answer your phone calls and respond to e-mails, keeping you updated on your case. We use Your Case Tracker, an online forum for sharing documents confidentially between attorney and client. Attorneys at our firm also give clients their personal cell phone numbers, ensures that the firm returns messages and e-mails left before 5:00 p.m. within the same business day. These quick responses make a difference for our clients.

Competent, communicative, and diligent representation: Our divorce lawyers take provide in providing zealous representation to our clients. We always strive to come to court prepared to do the best job possible in your case. In order to accomplish this goal, we stay up-to-date on recent case law, statutory changes, and any other factors that could impact the result of your case.

Realistic assessments: Knowing the best case, worst case, and middle scenarios is helpful from your child custody attorney. While we do not know for certain what any judge will do, we do our best to provide you with the possibilities to allow you to make informed decisions about the representation.

Customer service a priority: At Stange Law Firm, PC, clients are given the personal cell phone numbers of their child custody attorneys in addition to on-line support through Your Case Tracker. You may also have access to our child custody attorneys through our Divorce Headquarters App.

Note: The choice of a lawyer is an important decision and should not be based solely upon advertisements. Stange Law Firm, PC and Chad Hager are responsible for the content.  Headquarters office: 120 S. Central Avenue, Suite 450, Clayton, Missouri 63105. The phone number is 855-805-0595. The webpage address is https://www.stangelawfirm.com.

[murphydunnlawgroup]

Navigating Divorce with a Trusted Divorce Attorney in Bloomington, IL

Going through a divorce is undoubtedly one of the most challenging times in life. The emotional, financial, and legal toll can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re unsure of what steps to take. That’s where a knowledgeable Divorce Attorney in Bloomington, IL, comes in. Having a legal professional by your side can make all the difference in ensuring a smoother process and a fair resolution.

Divorce isn’t just about splitting up—it involves a range of legal issues such as property division, spousal support, child custody, and visitation rights. Illinois divorce laws can be complicated, and handling these matters without professional guidance can lead to mistakes that may affect your future. A Divorce Attorney in Bloomington, IL, is well-versed in the specifics of family law and will help you understand your rights and options every step of the way.

One of the biggest advantages of hiring an experienced attorney is their ability to negotiate on your behalf. Whether you're seeking an amicable resolution or dealing with a contentious divorce, your attorney can advocate for your best interests, minimizing stress and avoiding unnecessary conflict. They’ll work toward achieving a settlement that benefits you, whether that means securing fair child custody terms or a reasonable division of assets.

Moreover, a Divorce Attorney can provide peace of mind. Knowing that an experienced professional is handling all the legal details allows you to focus on your personal well-being and future. Instead of dealing with complicated paperwork or appearing in court, your attorney will manage everything, ensuring the process is as efficient and effective as possible.

Learn more about this subject on our blog - https://murphy211.blogspot.com/2025/02/navigating-divorce-with-trusted-divorce.html

[auroraattorney]

Compassionate Legal Support for Your Family Challenges in Aurora

Your life will improve when you have both dependability and legal experience supporting you through unexpected situations. Attorney in Aurora delivers compassionate legal services that guide clients through their most difficult life challenges. Our legal team provides complete support from the initial choice of an Aurora Divorce Lawyer up to represent you as an Aurora Family Lawyer throughout your process. 

Family law issues provoke intensely personal and emotionally challenging circumstances that we fully recognize. Our group cultivates a client-focused method that combines specialized legal expertise with continuous operational backing. Our law firm brings seasoned expertise to every matter we handle, resulting in customized plans for your distinct circumstances. 

Divorce gives legal practitioners many challenges and brings severe emotional stress to both parties. Our Aurora Divorce Lawyer team exists to help you streamline your legal process. During your divorce, we safeguard your rights in addition to protecting your interests throughout by handling property distribution and needing an agreement for spousal support while addressing child protection terms. 

Legal matters tied to your family structure deeply affect your life. Our practice, as your recommended Aurora Family Lawyer, supports various family law services, which encompass prenuptial agreements, child custody handling, and paternity and adoption cases, among others. The focus of our practice is to deliver empathetic solutions that place family welfare first. 

When you need representation from an Aurora Illinois Divorce Attorney look for our law firm right away. Our law firm immerses deeply into Illinois family laws and maintains extensive knowledge about local court requirements and procedures. Our knowledge of local courts lets us deliver exceptional professional services to help you achieve comprehensive case outcomes dedicated to professional legal services. 

As an Aurora-based legal firm, we function beyond representing you with legal advice since our mission involves championing your future growth. Our law practice skillfully merges legitimate legal knowledge with sincere emotional support to guide you through tough situations. 

Our expertise assists you and your family law matters while keeping your mind at ease. Call us at 630-820-3203 or reach out to our website https://attorneyinaurora.com/ now for a consultation if you require a legal professional who specializes in Aurora Family Law or Divorce. Our team will support you in achieving the resolution you need. 

[stange-law-firm]

In reference to Stange Law Firm, PC

Divorce and family law matters often mark some of the most challenging and emotional periods in a person’s life. At Stange Law Firm, PC, we understand the complexities involved in navigating such sensitive issues. Since our establishment in 2007, our mission has been to provide compassionate, effective legal representation that supports our clients during these difficult times, helping them move forward with clarity and confidence.

Over the years, Stange Law Firm has grown to become a trusted name in family law. We are proud to hold the distinction of being the second-largest family law firm in the United States, a testament to our unwavering dedication to client service and the quality of our legal counsel. Recognized by Law Firm 500 as one of the fastest-growing law firms in the nation, our growth underscores the value we bring to the individuals and families we serve.

At Stange Law Firm, we are exclusively focused on family law. Whether it’s a complex divorce, child custody arrangement, spousal support, or prenuptial agreement, our experienced attorneys bring in-depth knowledge and a personalized approach to every case. We are committed to ensuring our clients feel supported and informed throughout the legal process, offering clear communication and strategies tailored to their unique needs and goals.

Our client-centered approach sets us apart. We take the time to listen, understand, and develop legal strategies designed to address the specific circumstances of each case. By prioritizing our clients' well-being and striving for the best possible outcomes, we aim to alleviate the stress that often accompanies family law matters.

With offices strategically located across Missouri, Illinois, Kansas, Oklahoma, Nebraska, Indiana, and Iowa—and plans to expand into Texas and Kentucky in February of 2025—Stange Law Firm is dedicated to making high-quality legal representation accessible to families in need. Our strong regional presence ensures that clients can find experienced family law attorneys nearby, ready to provide the guidance and support they deserve.

In addition to our commitment to clients, we foster a supportive work environment for our team members. By offering competitive salaries, productivity bonuses, referral bonuses, comprehensive benefits, and 401k profit sharing, we ensure our attorneys and staff are motivated and well-equipped to deliver exceptional service. At Stange Law Firm, we believe that the success of our team is integral to the success of our clients.

Beyond the courtroom, we take pride in giving back to the communities we serve. Through charitable initiatives and local engagement, we aim to make a positive impact by supporting causes that uplift individuals and families in need.

At Stange Law Firm, we recognize the deeply personal nature of family law cases. Our attorneys approach each client with empathy, professionalism, and dedication, striving to make the legal process as smooth and stress-free as possible. Whether dealing with divorce, child custody disputes, or other family law issues, clients can trust us to stand by their side every step of the way.

Choosing Stange Law Firm means choosing a partner committed to protecting your rights, supporting your goals, and achieving the results you deserve. As we continue to grow and expand, we remain steadfast in our commitment to excellence, integrity, and client satisfaction.

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

[happilyshadowyfest-blog]

Illinois city's police department vows to block law enforcement from coordinating with ICE

"An Illinois city police department has vowed to block local law enforcement from coordinating with ICE. The department said that, in accordance with Illinois’ Trust Act, it will not give ICE information on individuals suspected to be illegal immigrants.

"The city’s main objective during this time is to secure and maintain the well-being of our community by following the guidance of the Illinois Attorney General Office, avoiding participation in federal enforcement efforts by preventing the sharing of information based solely on immigration status," Waukegan Police Department's official statement reads."

THE VERY NEXT DAY:

Major Update: The Exploding Chicago Murder Scandal Just Got Even Worse

DEVELOPING: Two migrants who crossed the southern border in TX in summer 2023 are believed to be in custody in relation to the heinous murder of a 63-year-old Chicago man in his home this Sunday. A Top US official and multiple sources tell Fox. Piecing it together.

Alderman Anthony Napolitano, whose 41st Ward includes Norwood Park, said at noon Thursday, Jan. 30, that “two persons of interest” are custody and that charges are pending. He added that the incident was not a random act of violence.... " I had heard that in addition to assaulting, allegedly torturing, and murdering the 63-year-old victim (who I'm told was discovered by his sister), they also robbed him."  

...Chicago's status as a sanctuary city. "I was told that one of the accused murderers was not only known to local police, but had recently been arrested by CPD for a separate disturbing crime."

Suspects in custody for Norwood Park murder; one reportedly arrested in earlier child luring case - Nadig Newspapers - Northwest Side Local Newspapers

From the article: "The luring incident on Jan. 12 involved a man who reportedly called two girls, ages 12 and 13, over to his vehicle in the 6200 block of North Sayre Avenue, according to Chicago police. The man was arrested on suspicion of child luring, but the charge was reduced to simple assault, and he was released from custody the next day, police said."

Chicago's mayor, Brandon "Jive Turkey" Johnson was quick to duck responsibility for protecting the cities' residents:

[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.

[chargoisharper]

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

[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.

[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.

[murphydunnlawgroup]

Why Hiring a Divorce Lawyer in Bloomington, IL is Essential

Divorce is a life-changing event that comes with a multitude of emotional and financial challenges. In Bloomington, IL, navigating the complexities of divorce and family law can feel overwhelming without proper legal guidance. This is where a skilled divorce lawyer in Bloomington, IL becomes invaluable. Whether you're dealing with a contested divorce, child custody battles, or property division, a seasoned lawyer ensures that your rights are protected and that the legal process is as smooth as possible.

Family law matters are often complex and require a deep understanding of Illinois state laws. For example, in a divorce, it’s crucial to determine the equitable distribution of assets, ensure fair spousal support, and establish a child custody arrangement that benefits the well-being of the children involved. A divorce lawyer in Bloomington, IL will assist you through every aspect of the process, from filing the necessary paperwork to negotiating a settlement or representing you in court if needed.

Additionally, issues like child support and modifications to existing arrangements can become a point of contention in family law cases. A family law attorney in Bloomington, IL can provide guidance and help you seek a resolution that aligns with both your needs and the best interests of your family.

Divorce and family law cases are not only about legal expertise but also about emotional support during a difficult time. By choosing an experienced divorce lawyer in Bloomington, IL, you can gain the peace of mind that comes from knowing your case is in capable hands. A compassionate lawyer will listen to your concerns, explain your options, and guide you toward a fair and equitable outcome.

Discover more on the topic by visiting our blog - https://murphy211.blogspot.com/2025/01/navigating-family-law-how-divorce.html