Divorce Lawyers in Rolling Meadows

Divorce Lawyers in Rolling Meadows

Securing the services of experienced divorce lawyers in Rolling Meadows is the paramount step toward navigating the intricate and often emotionally draining process of divorce in Illinois. SLG Family Law helps you understand the legal prerequisites, the procedural steps involved, and the potential challenges you may encounter during the process. Visit our team at a consultation to discuss your case.

Eligibility and Residency Requirements

Before filing for divorce in Illinois, certain eligibility criteria must be met. At least one spouse must have been a resident of the state for a minimum of 90 days. Contrary to popular belief, it is not obligatory to file for divorce in the same location where the marriage took place.

Grounds for Divorce

Under the Illinois Marriage and Dissolution of Marriage Act, the state adheres to a “no-fault” policy when it comes to divorce. This implies that the only grounds for divorce recognized by the state are irreconcilable differences that have led to the irrevocable breakdown of the marriage. To establish this, both parties must have lived separately for a continuous period of at least six months prior to the judgment dissolving the marriage.

Filing for Divorce

The divorce process commences with filing a petition for dissolution of marriage in the circuit court of the county where either spouse resides. It’s worth noting that there is no mandatory waiting period before filing the petition. The respondent (the spouse who didn’t file the original divorce petition) has 30 days from the date of service to file a response.

Mediation and Trials

In scenarios where spouses cannot reach an agreement on key issues such as child custody, property division, or spousal maintenance, the case might proceed to trial. During the trial, each party presents their case, including evidence and witnesses. The presiding judge then takes time to consider the evidence before making a ruling. However, Illinois law mandates that the judge must rule within 60 days.

Property Division

In adherence with Illinois law, marital property is divided equitably, but not necessarily equally. This distinction is crucial. Equitable division means that the court considers various factors, such as the duration of the marriage, the economic circumstances of each spouse, any prenuptial agreement, and the value of the property, to decide how to divide it fairly.

Child Support and Maintenance

The Illinois courts provide standardized forms for divorce, child support, and maintenance. In matters pertaining to children, the court always prioritizes the best interests of the child. This principle guides decisions regarding custody, visitation rights, and the amount of child support to be paid.

Contact Our Divorce Lawyers in Rolling Meadows

Navigating the divorce process in Illinois can be a complex and emotionally challenging journey. It’s essential to have knowledgeable and experienced divorce lawyers in Rolling Meadows on your side. Our legal experience and guidance can help you understand your rights, negotiate fair agreements, and ensure a successful and equitable divorce. A lawyer will be able to provide personalized advice tailored to your specific circumstances, helping you make informed decisions every step of the way. Call to begin.