While pets have long been considered “property” to be divided during a divorce under the rules of equitable distribution, as of January 2018, the state of Illinois allows judges to consider the well-being of the pet. Pets and their owners often have deep emotional bonds, and breaking those bonds can be harmful to the owner and the pet. Unfortunately, some spouses use pets as a bargaining chip to get what they want from the divorce.
In particular, if the pet or pets largely belong to one spouse, the other may threaten to keep the pet if he or she does not get everything asked for. As the law has continued to evolve since 2018 regarding pet custody, you should discuss your issues with an experienced Naperville, IL divorce attorney from Calabrese Associates, P.C. who can apply these changes to your current situation. Attorney Michael J. Calabrese is committed to keeping you updated regarding all important developments throughout the progression of your case.