Rockford IL

When residents of Rockford, IL, face a serious legal challenge, the path forward can seem uncertain and overwhelming. Whether it involves the profound personal impact of a family law matter, the urgent need to protect a vulnerable senior from exploitation, or a contentious dispute over a loved one’s estate, you need more than just an attorney—you need a dedicated advocate with a proven record of results.

The Law Offices of Anthony R. Scifo provides skilled, compassionate, and tenacious legal representation to clients throughout Rockford and Winnebago County. We understand the local legal landscape of the 17th Judicial Circuit Court and are committed to delivering sophisticated legal solutions for your most complex problems. If you need a Rockford, IL law firm that will fight to protect what matters most to you, call us today for a confidential consultation at 847-628-8311.

Your Dedicated Family Law Advocates in Rockford

Navigating family law issues requires a steady hand and a strategic mind. Our attorneys are committed to helping Rockford families find a clear path through difficult transitions, always prioritizing the well-being of our clients and their children.

Rockford Divorce & Mediation Services

We handle all facets of divorce and legal separation, from property division and allocation of debts to matters of spousal maintenance. We are skilled negotiators who protect your financial future. For couples who wish to avoid a contentious court battle, we also provide expert mediation services, facilitating a private and cooperative environment to help you craft your own durable agreements.

Protecting Children in Family Law Matters

When children are involved, we provide child-centered advocacy focused on their best interests. We guide parents through the allocation of parental responsibilities (custody), the creation of practical parenting time schedules, and the fair calculation of child support, ensuring your children’s stability and your parental rights are protected.

Vigorous Protection for Seniors with Elder Law Litigation in Rockford

Our firm is a staunch defender of seniors’ rights. When an elderly resident of Rockford is subjected to abuse or financial exploitation, we take immediate and aggressive legal action to stop the harm and hold the wrongdoers accountable.

Guardianship and Capacity Issues

We represent families in guardianship proceedings in Winnebago County court to protect incapacitated adults who can no longer make decisions for themselves. We also handle contested guardianships where the suitability of a proposed guardian is in question, always focusing on the safety and dignity of the vulnerable adult.

Fighting Financial Exploitation

Our firm aggressively litigates cases involving the misuse of a Power of Attorney and financial abuse by a caregiver. We understand the tactics predators use and are skilled at tracing and recovering stolen assets to make our clients whole.

Resolving Complex Probate & Estate Disputes in Winnebago County

A dispute over a loved one’s estate can cause deep family rifts and financial uncertainty. Our probate litigation practice is focused on resolving these conflicts and upholding the true intentions of the deceased.

Will Contests and Estate Claims

We represent clients in will contests, fighting to invalidate wills procured through undue influence, fraud, or lack of capacity. We also manage all aspects of claim litigation, representing both creditors seeking payment and estates defending against invalid debts.

Asset Recovery & Unique Probate Actions

Our firm is highly skilled in recovering stolen estate assets through powerful legal actions known as citation proceedings. In tragic cases, we are also prepared to apply the Illinois Slayer Statute to prevent a person who wrongfully caused a death from inheriting property.

Guidance for Executors and Trustees

If you’ve been named an executor or trustee in the Rockford area, we provide the critical legal guidance necessary to navigate your complex duties, comply with court requirements, and protect yourself from personal liability.

Why Rockford Residents Trust The Law Offices of Anthony R. Scifo

Legal challenges require a lawyer with proven courtroom skill and deep knowledge of the law. Anthony R. Scifo’s experience as a trial attorney and court-appointed Guardian ad Litem provides a unique and valuable perspective, especially in sensitive family and probate matters. Our firm’s comprehensive approach ensures that no matter how your legal issue evolves, we have the in-house expertise to handle it. We are committed to serving the Rockford community with integrity, professionalism, and a relentless focus on achieving our clients’ goals.

Frequently Asked Questions for Rockford, IL Residents

What court handles probate and family law cases in Rockford?

Probate and family law matters in Rockford are handled by the Winnebago County Circuit Court, which is part of the 17th Judicial Circuit of Illinois. Our attorneys are highly familiar with the local rules and procedures of this court.

I suspect a caregiver is stealing from my elderly parent in Rockford. What is the first step?

Your first step should be to contact both the Adult Protective Services hotline for Illinois and an experienced elder law attorney. This creates a two-pronged approach: a state investigation into the abuse and a private legal action to freeze accounts and recover stolen assets.

How long do I have to file a claim against an estate in Winnebago County?

The deadline is set by state law and is strictly enforced. Generally, a creditor has six months from the date a notice is published in a newspaper to file a claim. If you receive direct written notice from the executor, the deadline is often shorter. It is critical to act immediately to preserve your rights.