An uncontested divorce is one where both spouses agree on all issues including property division, spousal maintenance, child custody, parenting time, and child support. Because no issues require court intervention, uncontested divorces are faster, less expensive, and less stressful than contested proceedings.
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Uncontested Cases
Chicago Uncontested Divorce Attorney
The “Divorce Your Way” philosophy was created to help guide people with uncontested cases through the legal procedures and processes required to represent themselves as a Pro Se Litigant and commence the process to obtain an uncontested divorce in Cook County, Chicago, Illinois.
Specifically, for a fee of $510.00, you will meet for up to ninety (90) minutes with a licensed attorney who exclusively practices in the family law field. This private, in-office meeting will cover general topics such as legal procedures required to file a Pro Se Appearance and to proceed with an uncontested divorce; you will leave with the customized “Divorce Your Way” Pro Se Packet. The Packet will include the basics of the court filing, relevant court forms and/or additional online resources, online services, and step-by-step instructions on how to initiate a divorce action as a Pro Se Litigant in Cook County, Chicago, Illinois.
Top Three Questions to Ask Yourself Before Scheduling an Appointment for an Uncontested Case Meeting:
(1) Are you ready to proceed with a divorce?
Divorce (also referred to as “dissolution of marriage”) is just that- the dissolution of the bonds of marriage between a married couple. Spouses seeking a divorce wish to terminate their marital relationship, thereby terminating or reorganizing the legal rights and responsibilities associated with being legally married. The process for obtaining a divorce is governed by the laws of the particular country or state in which one or both of the spouses reside.
(2) Do you consider your situation to meet the requirements for an “uncontested divorce?”
Uncontested divorce is a divorce wherein the parties have a full agreement (obtained with or without lawyers, mediators, or a collaborative team) regarding ALL aspects of their case, including allocation of property (assets and liabilities), child-related issues such as decision-making and parenting time, and any support-related issues (such as maintenance and child support). If the parties can cooperate and present a fair and equitable agreement to the court, courts will almost always approve the agreement and grant the divorce. However, if the parties are unable to come to an agreement on any aspect of the case, it is considered a contested case, and the parties may request that the court decide any issues in dispute.
(3) Do you intend to represent yourself in the divorce action, without counsel?
Pro se legal representation (/pro ‘si/ or /pro ‘se/) means advocating on one’s own behalf before a court, rather than being represented by a lawyer. This may occur in any court proceeding, whether one is the defendant or plaintiff in civil cases. Pro se is a Latin phrase meaning “for oneself” or “on one’s own behalf”.
If you answered YES to all of the three questions presented above, then you are ready to schedule your appointment for an Uncontested Case Meeting, which you must designate when calling WARD FAMILY LAW, LLC, as a signed Uncontested Case Meeting letter and payment for the meeting will be due in conjunction with making your appointment.
DISCLAIMER for Uncontested Case Meetings:
At no time shall this Meeting be construed to be the formation of an attorney/client relationship and is not a prospective client meeting, as all participants are seeking guidance to represent themselves as Pro Se Litigants rather than hiring an attorney as his or her counsel. Further, no part of the Meeting shall be construed to be legal advice, as the guidance provided by the licensed attorney in the Meeting shall be for the sole purpose of providing general information only in helping with the Pro Se Litigant process in divorce actions in Cook County, Chicago, Illinois. To learn more about filing for an uncontested divorce, contact the experienced attorneys at WARD FAMILY LAW, LLC, today.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the requirements for an uncontested divorce in Illinois?
Both parties must agree on all terms, at least one spouse must have been an Illinois resident for 90 days, and the spouses must state that irreconcilable differences have caused an irretrievable breakdown of the marriage. If there are children, a parenting plan must be submitted.
How long does an uncontested divorce take in Illinois?
Once the 90-day residency requirement is met and all documentation is properly prepared, an uncontested divorce can typically be finalized within a few weeks to a couple of months depending on court scheduling.
How much does an uncontested divorce cost in Illinois?
Costs include court filing fees (typically around $300-350 in Cook County) and attorney fees for document preparation and the prove-up hearing. Ward Family Law offers flat-fee arrangements for qualifying uncontested divorce cases.
Do I need an attorney for an uncontested divorce in Illinois?
While not legally required, having an attorney is strongly recommended. An attorney ensures agreements are comprehensive, legally sound, and enforceable. Many parties who file without attorneys agree to terms that are legally flawed — mistakes that can be costly to correct later.
What documents are needed for an uncontested divorce in Illinois?
Required documents include a Petition for Dissolution of Marriage, Marital Settlement Agreement, Judgment for Dissolution of Marriage, and Financial Affidavit. For cases with children, an Allocation of Parental Responsibilities and Parenting Plan are also required.
What is a prove-up hearing in an Illinois divorce?
A prove-up is the final court hearing in an uncontested divorce where one or both parties appear before a judge to confirm the terms of the settlement. The judge reviews the documents, asks questions, and enters the Judgment for Dissolution of Marriage.
Can an uncontested divorce become contested?
Yes. If one spouse has second thoughts about agreed terms, new information about finances emerges, or new disputes arise, the case transitions to contested status, which increases cost and duration significantly.
What is the Ward Family Law Divorce Your Way Pro Se program?
Ward Family Law's Divorce Your Way program offers a flat-fee consultation for qualifying clients who want to handle their own uncontested divorce with professional guidance. For $510 we provide a two-hour meeting reviewing documents, explaining the process, and helping prepare for the prove-up hearing.
Can Ward Family Law represent me in an uncontested divorce if my spouse has their own attorney?
Yes. Even when both parties have separate attorneys, the process remains collaborative. Each attorney reviews settlement terms on behalf of their client, ensures documents are legally sound, and facilitates the prove-up hearing. Separate attorneys ensure each spouse's interests are independently protected.
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This Law firm was excellent with communication and follow through, compassionate to my very unique situation and ultimately GOT THE JOB DONE! Thanks to Jennifer Ward you are appreciated! Continued success to you!
Edward A.
Jennifer was absolutely stellar. They helped me navigate a difficult divorce & assisted in managing reduction in further traumatic interactions with the Ex. I am so grateful for her guidance & support!
Brittney C.
I do not tend to write many reviews but I know that when something works you need to pass it along. This team works. For you. For your kids.
Ramesh G.
They are highly skilled at both negotiation and litigation - we were able to settle the financials but had to litigate the kid issues - Jennifer always put my interests first.
Jitendra K.
I'm grateful for the dedication during my child support case. They provided me with the guidance I needed to get me to the end.
Vikas C.
I'm grateful!! Unmatched support and guidance from start to finish in modifying an old child support order.
Oluwafemi O.
Five stars! Jennifer was responsive, knowledgeable, and supportive throughout my divorce proceedings.
Koby B.
Choosing Ward Family Law was the best decision I made during my paternity case. Their dedication to achieving the best outcome for their clients and the kids is unmatched.
B. M.
A big thank you!! The dedication and professionalism throughout my divorce proceedings - truly grateful. I couldn't have asked for a better legal team.
Carlos B.
I appreciated the attention to detail and commitment to achieving the best possible outcome in my case. Highly recommended!
Lionel C.
Ward Family Law proudly serves all families, including those navigating civil union divorce Illinois proceedings. Our inclusive, knowledgeable team understands the unique legal landscape for same-sex couples and civil union partners in Illinois — ensuring equal, thorough representation at every step.
Our dedicated team of lawyers, paralegals, and staff provides reliable guidance and support
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The information presented should not be construed to be formal legal advice nor the formation of a lawyer/client relationship. Past results and testimonials are not a guarantee, warranty, or prediction of the outcome of your case, and should not be construed as such. Past results cannot guarantee future performance. Any result in a single case is not meant to create an expectation of similar results in future matters because each case involves many different factors, therefore, results will differ on a case-by-case basis. By providing contact information, users acknowledge and give explicit consent to be contacted via the methods of communication provided, including SMS. Message and data rates may apply. Message frequency may vary. Reply STOP to opt out.