Neubauer, Johnston & Hudson, P.C. Neubauer, Johnston & Hudson, P.C. 2026-06-18T16:00:54Z https://www.neubauerlaw.org/feed/atom/ WordPress /wp-content/uploads/sites/1602960/2020/12/cropped-favicon-32x32.jpg On Behalf of Neubauer, Johnston & Hudson, P.C. <![CDATA[5 common real estate contract mistakes that can cost you a home]]> https://www.neubauerlaw.org/?p=47181 2026-06-18T16:00:54Z 2026-06-18T16:00:54Z Contract terms that can create problems A real estate purchase agreement contains much more than the sale price and closing date. It also sets the rules for what happens if the property has serious defects, your financing falls through or one party cannot meet an important deadline. Some contract terms can protect your interests, while others can limit your options if problems arise. Some of the most common signing-stage mistakes include:
  1. Waiving inspection contingencies before learning the property's condition
  2. Accepting unclear language about repairs and property defects
  3. Agreeing to deadlines that leave little time for inspections or financing
  4. Misunderstanding financing clauses and contingency periods
  5. Signing the agreement without reviewing every provision
Each of these mistakes can affect your rights under the contract and, in some cases, put your earnest money or your ability to complete the purchase at risk.

How these mistakes can become expensive

Inspection contingencies give you an opportunity to identify serious defects before you complete the purchase. Without that protection, you could become responsible for major repair costs or lose earnest money if you decide not to proceed with the transaction. Financing provisions can create similar problems. Your contract may contain deadlines for securing financing or conditions that determine when you can withdraw from the transaction. Missing those deadlines or misunderstanding the terms can put your purchase at risk. Real estate contracts also address closing costs, property conditions and remedies for a breach of contract, and those terms can affect whether you face unexpected expenses or disputes.

Why contract review before signing can make a difference

Real estate disputes frequently begin with terms that buyers did not fully consider before signing. A review of the purchase agreement can identify unclear provisions and explain how contingencies, deadlines and financing terms may affect your transaction. For you, buying a home may be one of the largest financial commitments you ever make. The language in the purchase agreement can influence whether your purchase proceeds as planned or results in unexpected costs and complications.]]> On Behalf of Neubauer, Johnston & Hudson, P.C. <![CDATA[What you need to know when filing brain injury claims]]> https://www.neubauerlaw.org/?p=47179 2026-04-30T11:31:18Z 2026-04-30T11:31:18Z The complexity of brain injury cases Unlike a broken bone visible on an X-ray, a traumatic brain injury may take days or weeks to fully manifest, making it harder to connect the injury directly to the incident. This can cause insurance adjusters and opposing counsel to argue that your symptoms stem from a pre-existing condition. The long-term effects of a brain injury also contribute to this difficulty. Cognitive impairments, mood changes and chronic pain can evolve over months or years, and the full scope of your condition may not be clear during the early stages of your claim.

The evidence that can help your case

Several types of evidence can help show the nature and extent of your injury:
  • Medical imaging such as CT scans, MRIs and brain function tests
  • Treatment records from brain specialists and therapists
  • Records of lost wages, lower earning ability and out-of-pocket costs
  • Personal journals or statements from family members that note changes in your daily life
An attorney may also work with vocational and economic experts to project future costs related to your injury. These can carry weight when your condition requires you to have ongoing care.

The factors behind compensation calculations

Compensation in brain injury cases typically covers two types of damages. Economic damages include medical bills, lost wages and the cost of future care, while non-economic damages involve pain and suffering, emotional distress and a reduced quality of life. Florida follows a modified comparative negligence standard. Under this rule, a jury may lower your compensation if you hold partial fault for the incident. You also cannot collect compensation if your share of fault exceeds 50%.

The filing deadlines to be aware of

You generally have two years from the date of the incident that caused your injury to file a personal injury claim. Missing this deadline often prevents you from seeking recovery. In specific cases, such as medical malpractice or defective products, the filing window may be extended if the injury remains hidden. However, these situations typically require careful legal review by the court. Brain injury claims involve complex medical evidence and strict procedural rules, which can make navigating the legal system on your own difficult. An attorney familiar with these cases can review the details of your situation and guide you through the entire process.]]> On Behalf of Neubauer, Johnston & Hudson, P.C. <![CDATA[3 things to know about protecting your practice in divorce]]> https://www.neubauerlaw.org/?p=47176 2026-04-17T15:14:30Z 2026-04-17T15:14:30Z For many professionals, a private practice represents more than a source of income. It reflects years of education, long hours and a deep commitment to clients or patients who rely on your expertise. When divorce enters the picture, the question is not only what happens to shared property, but how to protect something so closely tied to your identity and future. Illinois courts take a careful approach to dividing assets, and a private practice often requires added attention. Here are three things to keep in mind if you are working to protect a private practice. 

1. Your practice may be considered marital property

In Illinois, courts often treat a private practice as marital property if you established or grew it during the marriage. Even if you established the practice before marriage, any increase in value that occurred during the marriage may still be included in the marital estate and considered when dividing assets.  Courts will look at factors such as financial contributions and indirect support from a spouse, as well as the overall growth of the business. This means your practice could become part of the property division process, even if your spouse does not work in the field.

2. Valuation plays a critical role

Before any division can occur, your practice must be valued. This step often requires financial professionals who assess income, assets, liabilities and goodwill. Goodwill can be especially complex because it may include both your personal reputation and the practice’s business value. A clear and accurate valuation helps support fair negotiations or court decisions. Without it, you risk an outcome that does not reflect the true worth of your work.

3. Proactive planning can protect your interests

Early planning can make a meaningful difference. You may be able to negotiate a settlement that allows you to retain ownership of the practice while offsetting its value with other marital assets. Keeping detailed financial records and maintaining a clear boundary between personal and business finances can also strengthen your position. In some cases, existing legal agreements may already outline how the practice should be handled. Each of these factors shows how easily a private practice can become a focal point during divorce. With a thoughtful approach, you can work toward a resolution that protects both your professional future and financial stability.

Looking ahead without losing what you’ve built

A divorce may reshape your personal life, but it does not have to undo the work you have invested in your practice. With the right information and a steady approach, you can make informed decisions that reflect both your professional goals and your financial needs. The way forward may feel uncertain at times, but seeking legal guidance can help you find a resolution that supports your next chapter.  ]]> On Behalf of Neubauer, Johnston & Hudson, P.C. <![CDATA[4 missteps to avoid after a serious spinal injury]]> https://www.neubauerlaw.org/?p=47174 2026-02-23T08:30:50Z 2026-02-23T08:30:50Z Going back to work before your body has healed Returning to work too soon, or pushing past your physical restrictions, can do more harm than you might expect: According to the National Spinal Cord Injury Statistical Center 2024 Facts and Figures report, indirect costs, including lost wages and reduced productivity, averaged $92,578 per year in 2023 for people living with spinal cord injuries. Following your doctor's instructions and protecting your recovery timeline helps preserve the full economic picture of your losses.

Keeping a pre-existing condition out of your claim

If you had a pre-existing back or spinal issue before the accident, it might feel tempting to leave it out of the conversation. Many people worry that disclosing a pre-existing condition will weaken their case. In reality, the opposite tends to be true. Illinois law recognizes what is known as the "eggshell plaintiff" doctrine, meaning a liable party takes you as they find you. If an accident worsened a condition you already had, you may still have a valid claim for the aggravation. Withholding that history, however, can backfire. Insurance companies routinely pull medical records, and if they discover an undisclosed condition, they may use it to question your credibility entirely. As such, your legal team will need complete transparency. Gaps in the medical history presented to your attorney might limit their ability to build an effective case on your behalf.

Speaking to the insurance company without legal guidance

Insurance companies often request recorded statements in the early stages of a claim. These recordings are part of a formal process and insurers may later use statements made without guidance to dispute or reduce your compensation. Adjusters may interpret seemingly straightforward phrasing differently once it enters a legal context. You have every right to decline a recorded statement until you have legal representation in place. An attorney can help clarify which questions require a response and how to address them in a way that does not inadvertently harm your case.

Settling too quickly before the full scope of your injuries is known

Spinal injuries frequently involve costs that are not immediately apparent. Future surgical procedures, ongoing physical therapy, home modifications, long-term attendant care and diminished earning capacity may collectively amount to hundreds of thousands of dollars over time. An early settlement may account for none of those future expenses. It is worth noting that Illinois law generally provides personal injury claimants two years from the date of injury to file a lawsuit. It is also important to know that missing this deadline may bar you from recovering compensation.]]> On Behalf of Neubauer, Johnston & Hudson, P.C. <![CDATA[How are complex retirement plans handled in a high-asset divorce?]]> https://www.neubauerlaw.org/?p=47173 2026-01-12T14:45:20Z 2026-01-12T14:45:20Z Divorce can feel overwhelming when significant retirement savings are on the line. In a high‑asset divorce, retirement accounts often hold substantial value and require close attention. Understanding how Illinois handles these accounts helps you prepare for what comes next.

Types of retirement accounts often involved

High‑asset divorces often include more than a basic 401(k). You may deal with defined benefit pensions, executive deferred compensation plans, profit‑sharing plans, and IRAs with large balances. Each account type follows different rules, which affects how division works. Some accounts also carry tax consequences that influence settlement decisions.

How Illinois law treats retirement assets

Illinois classifies retirement benefits earned during the marriage as marital property. That means the court can divide the marital portion, even if only one spouse earned the income. Contributions made before marriage or after separation may remain non‑marital, but clear records matter. Without documentation, disputes can arise over what portion qualifies for division.

The role of qualified domestic relations orders

Many employer‑sponsored plans require a qualified domestic relations order, often called a QDRO. This court order instructs the plan administrator on how to split the account. A properly drafted QDRO helps avoid early withdrawal penalties and unexpected taxes. Errors in timing or language can cause delays and financial loss.

Valuation and tax considerations

Not all retirement dollars carry the same value. Pre‑tax accounts, such as traditional 401(k)s, differ from after‑tax or Roth accounts. You need to account for future tax liability when comparing assets. Equal balances do not necessarily mean equal value once taxes apply.

Planning for long-term financial impact

Dividing retirement accounts affects your future financial security. A settlement that looks fair today may fall short later if it ignores growth potential or tax treatment. Careful analysis helps you weigh immediate needs against long‑term outcomes. Thoughtful planning supports a more stable financial picture after divorce. Sophisticated retirement accounts add layers of complexity to a high‑asset divorce. By understanding account types, division rules, and tax effects, you place yourself in a stronger position. Clear information allows you to approach negotiations with confidence and realistic expectations.]]> On Behalf of Neubauer, Johnston & Hudson, P.C. <![CDATA[Family law and estate planning: 3 things to update after divorce]]> https://www.neubauerlaw.org/?p=47172 2025-12-19T14:09:43Z 2025-12-19T14:09:43Z Divorce can change more than your day-to-day life. It can shift how you structure your wealth, property and long-term plans. For high-asset individuals, even small oversights can have big consequences, so paying attention to the intersections of family law and estate planning may protect both your assets and your future intentions.

Reviewing beneficiary designations

Each year more than 670,000 Americans experience divorce, a change that can ripple through finances and long-term plans. Reviewing beneficiary designations is often one of the first steps that may need attention. Accounts, insurance policies and retirement plans may still list an ex-spouse as a beneficiary. Updating these designations can help prevent unintended transfers.

Updating your will and trusts

Your will or any trusts you control likely assumed your marital status at the time of creation. Revising these documents can ensure assets are distributed according to your current wishes. This may also involve reviewing powers of attorney or healthcare directives to confirm that decision-making authority aligns with your preferences.

Reassessing joint ownership and powers of attorney

Shared accounts, jointly owned property or granting someone financial powers may no longer reflect your circumstances. Taking inventory of joint ownership and powers of attorney can help avoid complications or unintended authority for an ex-spouse. Consider:
  • Reviewing bank and investment accounts for joint ownership
  • Updating real estate deeds if property is jointly held
  • Reassigning powers of attorney for financial or medical matters
  • Checking digital accounts and online assets that may have shared access
Addressing these areas may reduce the risk of conflicts or confusion and ensure your estate plan mirrors your post-divorce priorities.

Protecting your legacy moving forward

Divorce can feel like an ending, but it’s also an opportunity to realign your plans with your current life. Keeping estate planning in sync with family law changes may offer peace of mind and clarity for you and your loved ones.]]> On Behalf of Neubauer, Johnston & Hudson, P.C. <![CDATA[4 errors to avoid in dividing your high-value retirement assets]]> https://www.neubauerlaw.org/?p=47171 2025-10-30T07:43:52Z 2025-10-30T07:43:52Z You’ve spent decades building your retirement savings. Now as you face divorce, those precious assets hang in the balance. One wrong move could cost you thousands of dollars or leave you facing unexpected hefty tax penalties.  Remember, high-net-worth individuals like you with more to lose face unique challenges when dividing your retirement assets during divorce. However, you have the power to protect your financial future by understanding these four key mistakes in dividing your high-value assets. 

Error #1: Failing to get a court order

Unlike usual bank transactions, you cannot simply withdraw funds from your retirement account and split them with your ex-partner. First, you must obtain a qualified domestic relations order (QDRO) to divide your retirement account. A QDRO is a court-ordered document that allows you to access and divide your retirement funds without triggering early withdrawal penalties or immediate tax consequences.  Without this document, your plan administrator would not know how to divide your account. Additionally, you can face penalties and income taxes on the entire distribution of assets.

Error #2: Failing to settle with your spouse

Typically, Illinois state laws provide guidelines for dividing your marital assets. However, you still have the option to negotiate a different arrangement with your spouse.  You might agree to keep your entire retirement account in exchange for other assets or you might decide to split the accounts differently than what the courts suggest.  Hence, settling with your spouse gives you more options on how you can divide your high-value assets. Failing to settle with them out of spite or by rushing through this decision can often lead to regrets later on.  Remember to take time to explore all options you have with legal counsel before committing to a settlement so you can maximize your chances of getting a good distribution.

Error #3: Failing to disclose other retirement plans

You must disclose all retirement accounts during divorce proceedings. This includes employment-sponsored funds you might have from previous employers that you have forgotten about.  The courts need complete information to divide your retirement assets fairly. Failing to disclose an account can lead to legal repercussions and may result in reopening of your settlement agreement later on.

Error #4: Failing to make informed decisions 

Divorce brings intense emotions that can cloud your judgement. You might feel pressured to accept a quick settlement just to end the process.  However, hasty decisions made during high tension moments often overlook important legal protections and tax strategies that could be beneficial for you. Thus, you shouldn’t sign any agreements during a heated moment. Remember to make informed decisions and plan carefully when dividing your high-value retirement assets. 

Protect your assets with legal guidance

Your retirement security depends on handling these assets correctly during divorce. However, if you’re having difficulty managing the division of your retirement assets alone, you can always seek guidance from legal professionals who understand high-value asset division.  Don’t navigate this process alone. Your financial future depends on negotiating a fair settlement and a proper distribution of your assets. Protect yourself today.]]> On Behalf of Neubauer, Johnston & Hudson, P.C. <![CDATA[Beyond the obvious: could a spouse be intentionally hiding assets?]]> https://www.neubauerlaw.org/?p=47170 2025-10-06T08:47:25Z 2025-10-06T08:47:25Z Crypto currency concealment Your spouse might secretly invest in cryptocurrencies. These digital currencies offer anonymity, making them hard to trace without specialized tools and legal insight. Without a proper declaration, these assets can disappear from marital property calculations.

Undisclosed online accounts

Beyond traditional bank accounts, spouses can hold funds on various online platforms. Think about peer-to-peer payment apps, investment platforms not tied to mainstream brokers, or even online gambling accounts. These accounts often slip under the radar during typical asset discovery.

Digital business assets

If your spouse owns a business, its digital components can become hidden assets. This includes valuable intellectual property, customer lists stored on cloud servers, or even the underlying code for a successful app. These elements hold significant value but are not always clearly visible on a balance sheet.

Hidden cloud storage

Documents and valuable data might reside in hidden cloud storage accounts. A spouse could stash financial records, property deeds, or even evidence of other hidden assets in a private, password-protected online folder. These virtual safe deposit boxes are easy to overlook.

Understanding the digital maze

Uncovering these hidden digital assets requires more than just standard procedures. Aside from hiring a forensic accountant, seeking legal support is also an option. They manage the complexities of digital discovery, using court orders to access information and applying pressure to reveal hidden financial avenues. This helps ensure you receive your fair share when dividing assets.  ]]> On Behalf of Neubauer, Johnston & Hudson, P.C. <![CDATA[5 surprising causes of spinal cord injuries]]> https://www.neubauerlaw.org/?p=47169 2025-09-04T00:16:14Z 2025-09-04T00:16:14Z 1. Major infections Some infections can damage the brain and spinal cord. Meningitis, for example, causes inflammation of the brain and spinal cord. In some cases, severe infections can cause permanent spinal cord damage and lasting medical challenges.

2. Violent altercations

Sometimes, an altercation with another person could lead to a spinal cord injury. A blow to the face or head could cause violent motions that pinch or tear the spinal cord. Particularly in scenarios where the person struck has pre-existing medical conditions, such as spinal stenosis, arthritis or osteoporosis, a blow to the head could be enough to cause permanent spinal cord damage.

3. Same-level falls

If people only fall to the ground on the same level, they may not anticipate developing severe injuries. It is possible to sustain a spinal cord injury in a same-level fall. Factors such as low bone density or violent twisting motion during the fall could increase the risk of a spinal cord injury.

4. Surgical errors

Surgeries are invasive medical procedures, and things can go wrong with little warning. Especially in scenarios where doctors operate on the spinal column, errors and complications that lead to spinal cord injuries are possible. Cutting the wrong location or putting pressure on the spinal cord could cause permanent damage.

5. Unmarked shallow pools

Some pools look much larger and deeper than they actually are. Factors including the chemicals used in the water or the color of tiles lining the pool could give people an inaccurate impression of water depth. Especially when there are no signs warning people that the pool is relatively shallow, they could dive into the water, resulting in permanent injuries. In scenarios where illegal or negligent behavior has caused or contributed to the cause of a spinal cord injury, an injured person may have grounds for a personal injury lawsuit. Seeking compensation for medical expenses and lost wages can be helpful for those adjusting to life with a spinal cord injury accordingly.]]> On Behalf of Neubauer, Johnston & Hudson, P.C. <![CDATA[How does IL law handle estate planning for unmarried couples?]]> https://www.neubauerlaw.org/?p=47167 2025-07-18T14:04:26Z 2025-07-18T14:04:26Z Estate planning for unmarried couples in Illinois can be challenging because the law generally favors married individuals in matters of inheritance and decision-making. If you and your partner are not married, understanding how Illinois law addresses estate planning will help ensure that your wishes are respected and your assets remain protected.

Illinois law and inheritance for unmarried couples

In Illinois, if one partner dies without a will or estate plan, the surviving partner cannot automatically inherit from the deceased partner’s estate. Unlike married couples, who inherit property under the state’s intestacy laws, unmarried partners must rely on estate planning documents like wills or trusts to inherit. Without these, the estate passes to relatives, not the surviving partner.

Protecting assets with a will or trust

To ensure that your partner inherits from your estate, you must create a will or trust. A will lets you specify how your assets should distribute, while a trust offers more control and helps you avoid probate. It’s crucial to name your partner as a beneficiary in these documents so they can receive the property or assets you intend. Trusts also allow you to provide ongoing financial support or manage complex asset distribution.

Power of attorney and healthcare decisions

Unmarried couples should assign power of attorney for both financial and healthcare decisions. Without these designations, Illinois law may prevent your partner from making medical or financial decisions for you if you become incapacitated. By naming your partner in advance, you give them the authority to act on your behalf in situations where you cannot communicate your wishes. Estate planning for unmarried couples in Illinois plays an essential role in protecting your partner and ensuring your estate remains in line with your wishes. Consider all the necessary legal tools to safeguard your future together.]]>