Common Divorce Q&A From a Leading Family Law Lawyer in 60647

The decision to divorce can be a difficult one. Once you decide to end your marriage, you are likely to face many questions about the process and what to expect. A leading family law lawyer in 60647 answers your questions and will help guide the divorce process to make it as easy and stress-free as possible. 

What is the First Step to Take in a Divorce?

Illinois has no-fault divorce; therefore, either party may begin the divorce process. The first step is to file a petition with the court. The person who files for divorce is called the petitioner, and the other party is called the respondent. You must meet the qualifications to file for divorce. You or your spouse must be a resident of Illinois. To prove that your marriage is irretrievably broken, you can show that you have lived apart for at least six months or that both parties agree to waive that requirement. Generally, there is no legal advantage to being the first party to file for divorce. 

How Long Does a Divorce Take?

In Illinois, a divorce can take anywhere from under a month to a year or longer. The length of time the process takes will depend on various factors. The main thing to consider is that both parties should review and agree to the settlement terms of the divorce. These include such things as the distribution of assets and debts, child custody, spousal support, and more. Disputes can take time to resolve and, therefore, can lengthen the time it will take to finalize a divorce. 

How Do We Divide Our Property?

Illinois divorce laws require that property and assets be divided in a fair and equitable manner. Both parties must disclose their assets and must decide on how to divide their property as well as their debts. If couples cannot resolve the matter in an equitable way, they may need to take part in mediation. A mediator is a professional who is trained to facilitate resolutions to divorce disagreement matters. A family law lawyer in 60647 will help you through the process. 

How Do We Decide Issues Regarding the Children?

As parents, you will have many decisions to make as part of the divorce process. Both parents typically have legal custody of their child. This means that they can both make important decisions regarding education, health, religion, and more. Usually, one parent has primary physical custody. The child will reside with one parent, and the other parent will have regular visitation. The non-custodial parent is usually responsible for paying child support for the needs of the child. Parents utilize a parenting plan to provide specific details about visitation, where a child will spend holidays and weekends, and other information about child custody. It should also contain instructions for how parents are to handle disputes, should they arise. Your family law lawyer in 60647 will help you with matters regarding child custody and visitation. 

How a Family Law Lawyer in 60647 Will Help

While you are not required to have an attorney, the divorce process will be easier and less challenging when you have an experienced family law lawyer on your side. Your lawyer will answer your questions and assist with the divorce process from start to finish. Contact us today at the Women’s Divorce & Family Law Group to discuss your needs.