Legal Question in Family Law in Illinois

I sued my daughter's father, whom I was not married to, when she was born, 16.5 years ago. Parentage was established with a blood test. Child support was reserved, with my never collecting a dime since I was fearful of my daughters safety if he got visitation because he had/has an alcohol/drug abuse problem. I have been financially able to provide for my daughter all these years but due to the economy and my being in real estate, my income has depleted by 35% or more, I just filed bankruptcy and my house is in foreclosure. I need help to feed my daughter since I am to the point of running out of resources. Can I go back into court on the reserved order of child suport and ask for child support to be granted now? Is child support retroactive? I am in Illinois and am wondering if I can handle this myself without an atty since I am out of funds. Is it a long process? What about visitation at her age with her never meeting him, is it possible? Any legal help/advise is greatly appreciated. Thank you.


Asked on 3/07/11, 5:02 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
David Gotzh Law Office of David Gotzh

Unfortunately, what's done is done. You can only backdate the petition to the date it was filed. Support ends in Illinois at the age of 18. Once she turns 18, it's over. Time is short, so you'll need to make a decision soon.

Best of luck & hope this helps.

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Answered on 3/07/11, 5:09 pm


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