Resource Sessions: Legal and Resource Podcasts by Sterk Family Law Group, P.C.

Continuing our series discussing the upcoming changes to Illinois employment laws going into effect in 2025 in Illinois, this episode touches on a new act and amendments that impact both employers and employees. Attorney Seth Matus joins Attorney Gwendolyn J. Sterk again to provide insights into these legislative updates.

Illinois Right to Privacy in the Workplace Act Amendments (ref: https://www.ilga.gov/legislation/ilcs/ilcs3.asp?ActID=2398)

The amendments offer protections for employees when using the E-Verify system to verify work eligibility. Employees whose documentation returns a "no match" status are now protected against potential negative implications from such findings.  

Illinois Whistleblower Act Amendments (ref: https://www.ilga.gov/legislation/ilcs/ilcs3.asp?ActID=2495)

The Whistleblower Act now extends protections to disclosures made to superiors, alongside those made in good faith. The amendment prohibits employers from taking any "adverse action" against employees, broadening the previous restriction against potential retaliation. These changes reinforce the importance of transparency and accountability within organizations of all sizes.

Illinois Workplace Freedom of Speech Act (ref: https://www.ilga.gov/legislation/ilcs/ilcs3.asp?ActID=4525&ChapterID=68&Print=True)

This newly introduced act provides offers protections for employees concerning employer communications, conversations, and/or meetings on religious and political matters, including union memberships. Employers cannot penalize employees for declining to attend or participate in meetings or communications about these subjects. The act also protects employees who report violations in good faith.

Listeners are encouraged to familiarize themselves with these amendments as they prepare for 2025. Employers should consider reviewing and updating their policies to ensure compliance and employees should take the opportunity to understand their rights under these new laws.

To connect with Attorney Seth Matus of Workplace Law Partners, visit: fishlawfirm.com/meet-our-team/seth-d-matus/

To connect with Sterk Family Law Group, P.C.: sterkfamilylaw.com or call 815-600-8950 to Empower Yourself With Options.

*********** Sterk Family Law provides a full range of family law and estate planning services in Orland Park for clients in Will, Cook, and DuPage counties. The Sterk Family Law Group team provides a holistic approach to the practice of law and strives to not only service a client’s legal needs, but also help manage a client’s emotional and overall well-being by establishing connections with a vast network of counselors, support groups, and various other non-traditional service providers within local communities by way of the unique Resource Center. The Resource Center provides Sterk Family Law clients with access to other professionals to help prepare for the next step in their lives. ***********

This is a legal advertisement from Sterk Family Law Group, P.C. It does not constitute legal or medical advice and should not be construed as such. This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only.

2025 Employment Laws for Illinois - Part One

Attorney Seth Matus joins Attorney Gwendolyn J. Sterk to review amendments to employment laws coming to Illinois starting in 2025. This first part of our two-part series discusses these important changes for both employers and employees.

Key Topics Discussed

Illinois Equal Pay Act Amendments (ref: Illinois General Assembly - Full Text of Public Act 103-0539)

Illinois Wage Payment and Collection Act Amendments (ref: 820 ILCS 115/  Illinois Wage Payment and Collection Act.)

Illinois Human Rights Act Amendments (ref: https://www.ilga.gov/legislation/ilcs/ilcs5.asp?ActID=2266)

Listeners are encouraged to stay informed about these updates for workplace policies and practices. 

To connect with Attorney Seth Matus of Workplace Law Partners, visit: fishlawfirm.com/meet-our-team/seth-d-matus/

To connect with Sterk Family Law Group, P.C.: sterkfamilylaw.com or call 815-600-8950 to Empower Yourself With Options.

*********** Sterk Family Law provides a full range of family law and estate planning services in Orland Park for clients in Will, Cook, and DuPage counties. The Sterk Family Law Group team provides a holistic approach to the practice of law and strives to not only service a client’s legal needs, but also help manage a client’s emotional and overall well-being by establishing connections with a vast network of counselors, support groups, and various other non-traditional service providers within local communities by way of the unique Resource Center. The Resource Center provides Sterk Family Law clients with access to other professionals to help prepare for the next step in their lives. ***********

This is a legal advertisement from Sterk Family Law Group, P.C. It does not constitute legal or medical advice and should not be construed as such. This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only.

Thank you to our latest Non-Profit Hero, Catholic Charities, for joining Gwendolyn J. Sterk to discuss their services and program. We were honored to hear from Stephanie Hook, Community Relations Coordinator, and Derek Schultz, Agency Event Coordinator, who shared insights into their community programs and upcoming events. Their programs include their Counseling Programs, which provide essential support, and Community Services, which offer assistance with food, housing, and more. Additionally, Catholic Charities offers Aging and Disability Services to provide services to the aging population while their Head Start early childhood services offer support for young children and their families.

Thank you, Catholic Charities, for your dedication to enhancing the lives of many in the community!

For more information visit https://catholiccharitiesjoliet.org/

For more information about Sterk Family Law Group, P.C. visit www.sterkfamilylaw.com or call 815-600-8950

*********** Sterk Family Law provides a full range of family law and estate planning services in Orland Park for clients in Will, Cook, and DuPage counties. The Sterk Family Law Group team provides a holistic approach to the practice of law and strives to not only service a client’s legal needs, but also help manage a client’s emotional and overall well-being by establishing connections with a vast network of counselors, support groups, and various other non-traditional service providers within local communities by way of the unique Resource Center. The Resource Center provides Sterk Family Law clients with access to other professionals to help prepare for the next step in their lives. ***********

This is a legal advertisement from Sterk Family Law Group, P.C. It does not constitute legal or medical advice and should not be construed as such. This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only.

In this episode, guest Sean Sebold of Sebold Capital Management joins Attorney Gwendolyn Sterk to discuss the topic of financial and investment planning following a divorce. This podcast provides practical guidance on understanding potential financial implications, the division and management of assets, and the importance of long-term plans. They also explain the term “in-kind distribution” which, at times, may be something someone who is divorcing, needs to understand.

In this episode of our podcast, we delve into the intricacies of evaluative mediation and its relevance for individuals navigating the complexities of procuring a home loan during or after a divorce. Our guest, Larry LoVetere from Guaranteed Rate, sheds light on how this mediation model can be particularly beneficial in such scenarios.

Evaluative mediation involves a neutral third party who provides an informed assessment of the strengths and weaknesses of each party's case, offering potential solutions and predicting the likely outcomes if the case were to go to court. This approach aims to guide the parties towards a settlement that aligns with legal norms and standards.

For those going through a divorce, financial decisions, especially regarding home loans, can be fraught with tension and uncertainty. Evaluative mediation can assist in clarifying financial standings and future obligations, thereby helping both parties make informed choices about dividing assets and securing a new home.

Tune in to discover how evaluative mediation can make a significant difference in navigating the complexities of home financing in the aftermath of a divorce.

To connect with Larry, email [email protected] or [email protected] or visit his website.

To connect with Sterk Family Law Group, P.C.: www.sterkfamilylaw.com or call 815-600-8950 to Empower Yourself With Options.

*********** Sterk Family Law provides a full range of family law and estate planning services in Orland Park for clients in Will, Cook, and DuPage counties. The Sterk Family Law Group team provides a holistic approach to the practice of law and strives to not only service a client’s legal needs, but also help manage a client’s emotional and overall well-being by establishing connections with a vast network of counselors, support groups, and various other non-traditional service providers within local communities by way of the unique Resource Center. The Resource Center provides Sterk Family Law clients with access to other professionals to help prepare for the next step in their lives. ***********

This is a legal advertisement from Sterk Family Law Group, P.C. It does not constitute legal or medical advice and should not be construed as such. This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only.

In our latest Non-Profit Hero feature, we are honored to feature, Filling the Gap. Filling the Gap is a restorative organization dedicated to providing dignified and transformational housing to people in need. Their goal is to bring together resources from the community, local government, stakeholders, and other non-profit agencies to increase the number of housing options available to this widely underserved population.

In our latest Non-Profit Hero feature, we are honored to feature South Suburban Joy Emporium, a remarkable non-profit based in Midlothian, IL. Joy Emporium stands out for its comprehensive approach to community support, addressing both immediate and ongoing needs to ensure every individual has access to essential resources and support systems. From food assistance to educational programs, Joy Emporium's services are designed to uplift and empower the community, providing crucial aid where it is needed most.

We had the pleasure of speaking with founder Jacquelyn Jenke, whose dedication and vision have been the driving force behind this incredible organization. Jacquelyn shared insightful details about how Joy Emporium operates, highlighting their commitment to creating a supportive environment for all members of the community. Through her words, it is clear that the impact of Joy Emporium extends far beyond mere assistance; it fosters a sense of belonging and hope.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to Jacquelyn Jenke for taking the time to share the inspiring mission and achievements of South Suburban Joy Emporium. Tune in to learn more about how this Non-Profit Hero is making a tangible difference in the lives of many, and discover ways you can support their vital work.

To connect with Sterk Family Law Group, P.C.: www.sterkfamilylaw.com or call 815-600-8950 to Empower Yourself With Options.

********** Sterk Family Law provides a full range of family law and estate planning services in Orland Park for clients in Will, Cook, and DuPage counties. The Sterk Family Law Group team provides a holistic approach to the practice of law and strives to not only service a client’s legal needs, but also help manage a client’s emotional and overall well-being by establishing connections with a vast network of counselors, support groups, and various other non-traditional service providers within local communities by way of the unique Resource Center. The Resource Center provides Sterk Family Law clients with access to other professionals to help prepare for the next step in their lives. **********
This is a legal advertisement from Sterk Family Law Group, P.C. It does not constitute legal or medical advice and should not be construed as such. This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only.

We had the pleasure of featuring our latest Non-Profit Hero, Operation Playground, an organization dedicated to uplifting the community of Frankfort and surrounding areas. Since 1999, Operation Playground’s goal is to provide park facilities for everyone in the community to have access to safe, engaging, and enriching environments.

Operation Playground is not just about physical spaces; it also aims to foster a spirit of volunteerism within the community. By encouraging local residents to get involved, the organization helps build a sense of unity and shared purpose. This volunteer-driven model not only amplifies the impact of their projects but also empowers individuals to take an active role in the betterment of their surroundings.

Throughout our discussion, we explored various initiatives Operation Playground undertook, from building local parks to organizing community events. Their approach and unwavering commitment to service truly make Operation Playground a beacon of hope and a model for community-driven success.

Thank you to Dave McDonald and Chris Herder for sharing the fun of Operation Playground!

For more information about Operation Playground or their Pours For Parks on October 19th, fundraiser, visit: https://opfrankfort.org/

To connect with Sterk Family Law Group, P.C.: www.sterkfamilylaw.com or call 815-600-8950 to Empower Yourself With Options.

Featured as a Non-Profit Hero, The You Belong Foundation is dedicated to supporting individuals with special needs and disabilities and acknowledging their unique challenges.

Thank you to founder, Wendy Cunningham Barnes for joining us. She shared their mission to unite the special needs community by offering support, resource-sharing, and inclusive programs tailored for people with disabilities.

For more information about The You Belong Foundation, visit: theyoubelongfoundation.org/

To connect with Sterk Family Law Group, P.C.: www.sterkfamilylaw.com or call 815-600-8950 to Empower Yourself With Options.

*********** Sterk Family Law provides a full range of family law and estate planning services in Orland Park for clients in Will, Cook, and DuPage counties. The Sterk Family Law Group team provides a holistic approach to the practice of law and strives to not only service a client’s legal needs, but also help manage a client’s emotional and overall well-being by establishing connections with a vast network of counselors, support groups, and various other non-traditional service providers within local communities by way of the unique Resource Center. The Resource Center provides Sterk Family Law clients with access to other professionals to help prepare for the next step in their lives. ***********

This is a legal advertisement from Sterk Family Law Group, P.C. It does not constitute legal or medical advice and should not be construed as such. This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only.

Listen to our radio segment on air with the Friends Over Fifty Show on WJOL 1340AM.

Ed, Rich and Kelly discussed what family law and estate planning entails, pet custody in Illinois, fostering pets, and the important role pets can play in people's lives.

For more information about the radio show, visit www.thekerfins.com

For information about the foster programs mentioned: Little City or LoveMoves.Us

For more information about the greyhound/galgo rescue mentioned visit American Greyhound or Daphne Legacy Tour

To connect with Sterk Family Law Group, P.C.: ⁠www.sterkfamilylaw.com⁠ or call 815-600-8950 to Empower Yourself With Options.

********** Sterk Family Law provides a full range of family law and estate planning services in Orland Park for clients in Will, Cook, and DuPage counties. The Sterk Family Law Group team provides a holistic approach to the practice of law and strives to not only service a client’s legal needs, but also help manage a client’s emotional and overall well-being by establishing connections with a vast network of counselors, support groups, and various other non-traditional service providers within local communities by way of the unique Resource Center. The Resource Center provides Sterk Family Law clients with access to other professionals to help prepare for the next step in their lives. **********
This is a legal advertisement from Sterk Family Law Group, P.C. It does not constitute legal or medical advice and should not be construed as such. This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only.