Divorce (the action or instance of legally dissolving a marriage) in Illinois is referred to as Dissolution of Marriage and is categorized as a contested divorce or an uncontested divorce. WARD FAMILY LAW, LLC, represents clients of various personal and professional backgrounds, with each client having unique issues and concerns, but all are going through the same divorce process. With Jennifer R. Ward, Esquire, one of the top divorce lawyers in Chicago, leading the way on your case, you have legal counsel with extensive law school classroom teaching, professional lecturing, publishing, negotiation, and courtroom experience, which provides clients with well-rounded representation.
In a contested divorce, the parties disagree on at least one of the main issues. In an uncontested divorce, the parties can agree on all the issues and need guidance in negotiating and drafting the final documentation. WARD FAMILY LAW, LLC, can streamline an uncontested divorce case by guiding the client through the necessary steps to ensure that the case is concluded with well-written, mutually agreeable documentation in a timely fashion. We also handle highly contested matters and are fully committed to litigating on behalf of our clients, when necessary, to help ensure our clients obtain favorable results under the law.
Family law includes a range of legal issues that deal with family matters and connections. For example, it incorporates issues such as divorce, child custody, and property division.
WARD FAMILY LAW, LLC, remains up-to-date on all significant laws and policies, permitting them to adjust rapidly to any changes and give the best representation to clients. By centering on the special needs of each family, our divorce lawyer in Chicago offers a customized approach for each case, making sure clients feel supported throughout the process.
Each case has unique circumstances and elements, but there are some basic steps that all divorcing couples will go through:
For a more detailed explanation, please refer to our Divorce Process in Illinois page.
The complexities of the divorce process and implications are not lost on a law firm that handles these cases every day, which allows our clients to have access to attorneys who are both compassionate and experienced. Our firm is home to the top-rated Chicago divorce lawyers in the family law field.
Divorce affects not only the couple but also their children. WARD FAMILY LAW, LLC works constantly to minimize the effect of divorce on children and make arrangements that work for the whole family. Here are a few of the ways they prioritize family well-being:
By focusing on diminishing conflict and ensuring the best interests of children are met, our divorce attorney in Chicago has a positive effect on the families they serve.
To file for a Dissolution of Marriage in Illinois, one of the spouses must be a resident of Illinois for at least 90 days and meet jurisdictional requirements. The grounds for divorce in Illinois are now irreconcilable differences, specifically defined as “causing the irretrievable breakdown of the marriage and the court determining that efforts at reconciliation have failed or that future attempts at reconciliation would be impracticable and not in the best interests of the family.”
If the parties lived “separate and apart” for at least six consecutive months immediately preceding the entry of the judgment dissolving the marriage, there is an irrefutable presumption that the requirement of irreconcilable differences has been met. In Illinois, living “separate and apart” does not simply mean the parties have physically lived in separate residences- this legal term refers more to the parties’ mindsets about the breakdown of their marriage. Living separate and apart can include spouses living together but believing that the marriage has irretrievably broken down for at least six months before the entry of a divorce judgment.
To obtain a final Judgment for Dissolution of Marriage, the court must have jurisdiction. The court is also required to consider, approve, reserve, or make provision for the allocation of parental responsibilities, the support of any child of the marriage entitled to support, the maintenance of either spouse, and the disposition of property. The court will enter a Judgment for Dissolution of Marriage that resolves these issues either by agreement of the parties or by motion of either party if the court finds appropriate circumstances exist.
A divorce includes numerous critical choices that influence the future of both parties and their families. Our divorce lawyers in Chicago offer comprehensive direction in the following areas:
WARD FAMILY LAW, LLC, will help you navigate the divorce process from start to finish, and we will ensure that you are being personally guided through every step. We understand family dynamics and how emotionally draining the divorce can be. We will take the time to understand your needs, concerns, and objectives and how that will impact you and your family. The expertise of our experienced divorce lawyers in Chicago allows you to meet and often surpass your goals in obtaining a dissolution of marriage. Contact our experienced attorneys at WARD FAMILY LAW, LLC, to schedule a consultation today.
Divorce is a major life transition, and having a reliable lawyer can help ease the burden. A reliable divorce lawyer in Chicago supports not only the legal side of things but also understands the difficult process families go through.
When you need a divorce lawyer in Chicago known for their judgment, sympathy, and commitment to their clients, turn to WARD FAMILY LAW, LLC. These qualities set them apart as dedicated family law advocates who understand that each family has unique needs.
When possible, our divorce attorney in Chicago takes additional steps to streamline the legal process and diminish the stress clients may feel. This includes breaking down legal language into plain speech so clients know precisely what’s happening in their case.
With so many divorce attorneys in Chicago, what makes WARD FAMILY LAW, LLC stand out? It’s their commitment to going over and above to provide excellent legal representation. They offer peace of mind, a strong strategy, and a commitment to moral practices.
At WARD FAMILY LAW, LLC, clients discover more than a fair divorce attorney in Chicago; they discover an advocate who cares about helping them through this troublesome time. The firm’s commitment to clients, family-first approach, and strong community values make it a trusted choice for families throughout Chicago.
One of WARD FAMILY LAW, LLC’s most prominent qualities is its client-centered approach. By treating each client as a person with unique needs and concerns, the firm builds a sense of connection and partnership.
This client-centered approach allows families to focus on moving forward, confident that their legal needs are in capable hands.
At WARD FAMILY LAW, LLC, our divorce lawyer in Chicago provides exceptional services to clients in Des Plaines, Oak Park, Rosemont, and nearby communities. Our dedicated group understands the complexities of divorce, child custody, property division, and spousal support, and we offer compassionate, results-driven legal support custom-made to your needs. We prioritize open communication, clear direction, and successful outcomes to help you confidently explore this challenging time. Whether you’re completing an uncontested divorce or a complex case, our lawyers are here to protect your interests and help secure a brighter future. Contact us today for a confidential consultation.
1. Will I Have to Appear in Court?
Yes, although most Divorce Court and Paternity Court proceedings are now conducted by video conference, and you may not need to physically travel to the courthouse. If your divorce is uncontested, or you and your ex have reached an agreement on all terms, a prove-up hearing will be necessary to finalize the divorce. A divorce attorney in Chicago can help you understand what to expect at a prove-up hearing and provide tips on attending court proceedings by video.
2. Are Spouses Required to Live Separately Before a Divorce in Illinois?
Living “separate and apart” for at least six consecutive months is considered evidence of the irretrievable breakdown of a marriage. However, this does not necessarily require living in separate residences. Some former spouses choose to continue living with an ex-spouse after divorce.
3. What If I Can’t Afford Top-Rated Chicago Divorce Lawyers?
Illinois law is designed to create a “level playing field” for both spouses during the divorce proceedings. A spouse with limited financial resources can request attorney’s fees from a spouse with greater resources, including the initial retainer fee. If you can’t afford a divorce attorney in Chicago but your spouse can afford to help, speak with an experienced divorce lawyer in Chicago to better understand your options.
4. What Should I Do if I Believe My Spouse is Hiding Assets?
If your spouse is deliberately concealing income or assets during the divorce process, you may be able to take steps to help uncover these assets. However, the time and cost associated with addressing hidden assets should be carefully weighed against the potential value of the assets. A knowledgeable divorce attorney in Chicago can help you determine the best course of action.
If you are tempted to conceal assets from your ex, know that there can be serious legal and financial consequences for hiding assets during a divorce, and this behavior should always be avoided. The smart move is to hire experienced divorce attorneys in Chicago who can negotiate a fair divorce settlement and protect your interests.
5. What if My Ex is Spending Recklessly Before the Divorce is Finalized?
If one spouse is intentionally wasting or disposing of marital assets, this may qualify as either dissipation or fraud. This form of marital asset theft can be addressed during the divorce process with the help of a skilled divorce lawyer in Chicago.
6. What If My Spouse Refuses to Sign the Divorce Papers?
In Illinois, divorce can be finalized even if one spouse does not attend the final hearing. This is known as divorce by default. If you have made good faith attempts to negotiate and give your ex a reasonable amount of time to act, then court intervention may be necessary to finalize a divorce without your ex’s participation. Divorce lawyers in Chicago, Illinois offering a free consultation can explain more.
Our dedicated team of lawyers, paralegals, and staff provides reliable guidance and support
every step of the way.
Fill out the form below to schedule a consultation.