Legal Question in Family Law in Illinois
I have been with my boyfriend for 8 years and I just found out he is cheating on me. We have 2 children together and I have been a stay at home mom. I left the house 2 days ago and so far he has taken my vehicle, changed the locks on the house and took all the money. All of mine and my kids clothes and belongings are still in the house. What are my rights?
1 Answer from Attorneys
Illinois does not recognize common law marriages, so your relationship is not one of husband and wife. Technically you can file criminal charges against him for theft of property, and go to the State's Attorney's office in your area about child support. You should get an attorney and the local bar should be able to find someone for you. There may be a legal aid office in your area. The question is whose house is it? You don't say but it sounds like his? You may have rights similar to a tenant's. I don't know if local police will interfere. You need to find that attorney and let him or her get all the facts needed to help you. You've given some but there are things that just can't be laid out in this forum. GOOD LUCK TO YOU!