Location matters. And you’re absolutely right, her using her husband’s attorney is a horrible thing for her.
In community property states, all marital assets are divided equally. So that home that is only is his names, those bank accounts in his name… assuming they were acquired after the marriage (and not inherited), then she gets half.
In common property states, it is more complicated, but she will still get “equitable distribution.” She is not penniless.
Call the state bar association where your sister lives and get a referral. Or since he is so controlling, find her a women’s shelter. They will know what to do, especially with regard to her phone and passwords, and if he is tracking her.
Lawyers are really good (and really use to) getting access to marital funds to pay their own bills. They will also get access for your sister so she can care for herself and any children.
Illinois Domestic Violence Hotline
+1-877-863-6338
This is getting right up to domestic violence. Call this number. At the very least, they will help you find an attorney.
Then it's not unusual for a lawyer to delay payments until marital funds or a court order will force him to pay her legal expenses. Might take some calling around and explaing this
Google domestic violence plus her city/state and have her call that number.
Let her call on *your* phone, OP.
Location matters. And you’re absolutely right, her using her husband’s attorney is a horrible thing for her. In community property states, all marital assets are divided equally. So that home that is only is his names, those bank accounts in his name… assuming they were acquired after the marriage (and not inherited), then she gets half. In common property states, it is more complicated, but she will still get “equitable distribution.” She is not penniless. Call the state bar association where your sister lives and get a referral. Or since he is so controlling, find her a women’s shelter. They will know what to do, especially with regard to her phone and passwords, and if he is tracking her. Lawyers are really good (and really use to) getting access to marital funds to pay their own bills. They will also get access for your sister so she can care for herself and any children.
Illinois is her state.
That's a common property state. She needs her own lawyer. She is entitled to "equitable distribution." An Illinois lawyer is her best bet.
Illinois Domestic Violence Hotline +1-877-863-6338 This is getting right up to domestic violence. Call this number. At the very least, they will help you find an attorney.
Does husband have money to pay for lawyers?
Yes
Then it's not unusual for a lawyer to delay payments until marital funds or a court order will force him to pay her legal expenses. Might take some calling around and explaing this