Legal Blog of Thaddeus M. Bond & Associates

Friday, January 30, 2009

The role of a guardian ad litem or child representative

In adoption matters and cases involving disputed child custody, Illinois courts will often appoint a guardian ad litem. The "GAL" acts as an advisor to the judge and normally prepares a report and recommendations as to how to proceed. This usually involves interviewing the child, the birth parents and/or step parents or other custodial adult. The GAL tries to obtain as much relevant information as possible to determine the best interests of the child and the best place for him or her to reside. A judge is free to accept or reject the GAL's recommendations but they are often quite persuasive. June Peterson-Gleason is on the list of approved GALs in Lake County, Illinois and is often appointed by the court to serve in this role. Her experience as an advocate for children gives her a unique perspective on what courts are looking for in determining who is the best custodial adult. Her knowledge in this area can be an invaluable resource in resolving divorce and child custody disputes. Feel free to contact her for more information.

posted by Ted Bond, Jr. at 9:41 AM 0 comments

Friday, January 9, 2009

A new real estate market

News from local lenders and title companies is that the number of mortgage refinances has increased significantly in recent days. With a little luck, this new access to borrowing will be a precursor to a rebound in the buy/sell market. With inventory high, prices low and interest rates very low, wise individuals are looking for opportunities to buy. Now more than ever, good legal counsel is a must. Purchasing REO or bank owned foreclosure properties is very different than buying from a non-institutional seller. Banks write their contracts to be very friendly to their interests and to minimize their closing costs. Also widely available these days are "short sale" properties. This means the seller will not net sufficient funds from the sale to pay the full amount due to their lender(s). These transactions have their own hazards and pitfalls. Gone are the days of simple closings that can take place in a matter of days. Buyers need legal counsel who have dealt with these situations before and can advise you what to expect. Do not hesitate to contact us if you are planning to buy real estate any time in the near future.

posted by Ted Bond, Jr. at 2:43 PM 0 comments

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