Chicago Divorce Attorneys

Chicago Divorce Attorneys

In Illinois, the legal term for divorce is “dissolution of marriage.” If both people agree on all of the issues relative to their divorce then it is an uncontested dissolution of marriage. In these cases, the Chicago divorce attorneys at WARD FAMILY LAW, LLC can help couples draft the legal documents and finalize the divorce with relative ease.

Of course, many times, couples disagree on at least one main topic in divorce proceedings, such as child custody or how to divide marital property. In these cases, the couple goes through a contested dissolution of marriage. The lawyers at WARD FAMILY LAW, LLC will negotiate fiercely, finesse settlement and proceed to litigation, when needed, in order to ensure a favorable outcome for our clients.

Requirements to Obtain a Divorce in Illinois

In 2016, Illinois law changed so that there is only one ground for divorce: irreconcilable differences. This makes it a no-fault divorce state. Neither party has to prove who is responsible for the downfall of the relationship. Instead, couples need to prove to the court that there are issues in the marriage that cannot be resolved and continuing to attempt a resolution would not be in the parties’ best interests while also living separate and apart for a period of six months.

In addition to proving irreconcilable differences, the couple must meet Illinois’ divorce residency requirements. Either or both spouses must have lived in Illinois for at least 90 days to obtain a divorce in the state.

Property Division in a Chicago Divorce

Illinois is an “equitable division” state, which means that the courts must divide all marital property fairly in divorce cases. In some dissolutions of marriage, this means dividing the property 50/50, but not always.   Some factors that the court considers include the duration of the marriage, the roles and contributions of the parties, and the overall marital estate.

It’s important to hire Chicago divorce attorneys who have significant experience obtaining the necessary information and documentation to properly advise clients of their options and then being prepared to argue these issues in front of a judge.

Chicago Divorce and Child Custody

Perhaps one of the most contentious issues in any divorce that involves minor children is parenting time and decision-making. There are many points to consider and experienced attorneys are a key component to negotiating or fighting for the best interests of the children.

Hiring the Right Chicago Divorce Attorneys for You

Choosing the right Chicago divorce attorneys can have a significant impact on your family and your financial future. Be sure you consult with attorneys first and hire someone you can trust to get the job done. Contact WARD FAMILY LAW, LLC today to set up a consultation.