When facing a divorce in Illinois, choosing the right attorney to guide you through the process can be a difficult decision. Divorce involves not only complex legal matters but also emotional and personal challenges that can be overwhelming. Having a reliable, skilled divorce lawyer from Keller Legal Services by your side can help ease the stress of this difficult time and increase the chances of achieving a successful outcome for you and your family.
Our Downers Grove divorce lawyers understand that every case is unique and requires individualized attention. Whether you’re facing a contested or uncontested divorce, legal separation, or paternity issues, our attorneys will provide you with the guidance you need to navigate this challenging process. With over 30 years of experience serving clients in DuPage County and surrounding areas, we have the knowledge and dedication required to protect your rights.
In Illinois, couples can file for divorce under the “no-fault” provisions, which means there’s no need to prove wrongdoing on the part of either spouse. The court requires only that the marriage has broken down due to irreconcilable differences, and efforts for reconciliation have failed. This approach allows couples to part ways more amicably, without assigning blame for the dissolution of the marriage.
To file for divorce in Illinois, the first step is to meet the residency requirement, which stipulates that at least one spouse must have lived in the state for at least 90 days before filing. Once the residency requirement is met, a Petition for Dissolution of Marriage is filed at your local courthouse. The petition will outline the details of the marriage, including any children and the issues that need to be resolved, such as custody, child support, property division, and spousal support.
In many cases, additional documents, such as a Civil Case Cover Sheet, will also need to be filed. It’s highly recommended that you consult with a knowledgeable attorney to ensure all required documents are submitted properly.
The time it takes to complete the divorce process in Illinois depends largely on whether the divorce is contested or uncontested. Uncontested divorces, where both parties agree on key issues such as child custody, property division, and support, can be finalized relatively quickly, sometimes within just a few weeks. On the other hand, a contested divorce, where there are disagreements, may take several months or even longer to resolve. Factors such as court schedules, the complexity of the issues involved, and the willingness of both parties to negotiate will all play a role in how long the process takes.
Illinois follows the principle of equitable distribution when dividing property in a divorce. This means that marital property—anything acquired during the marriage—will be divided fairly, but not necessarily equally. Factors such as the length of the marriage, each spouse’s financial situation, and their contributions to the household will be taken into consideration. Personal property, gifts, and inheritances acquired before the marriage or designated solely for one spouse are generally not subject to division.
Illinois law places great importance on the best interests of the child when making decisions about child custody (now called allocation of parental responsibilities) and visitation. Factors such as the child’s needs, each parent’s ability to meet those needs, and the child’s relationship with each parent are all considered when determining custody arrangements. In most cases, joint custody is awarded, but sole custody may be considered if it’s in the child’s best interest.
When it comes to child support, Illinois has established guidelines based on both parents’ incomes, the number of children involved, and the amount of parenting time each parent has. The courts will also consider other expenses related to the child’s care, such as healthcare and education, in determining the final support amount.
Child custody and support orders can be modified if there is a significant change in circumstances. These changes may include changes in either parent’s income, relocation, or shifts in the child’s needs. If you wish to modify an existing court order, you must file a motion with the court and provide substantial evidence supporting your request.
Spousal support, also referred to as alimony, is financial assistance that one spouse may be required to pay to the other following a divorce. The court determines the amount and duration of support based on factors such as the length of the marriage, the financial needs of the recipient spouse, and the recipient’s ability to support themselves. The court may award either temporary or permanent spousal support based on these factors.
At Keller Legal Services, we understand the stress and emotional toll that divorce can take on your personal and financial well-being. Our Downers Grove divorce lawyers are committed to guiding you through every step of the divorce process, whether you’re dealing with uncontested divorce or complex litigation. We focus on providing clear, practical legal strategies that protect your rights and goals.
If you and your spouse can reach an agreement on important issues such as custody, property division, and support, an uncontested divorce can be a quicker and less stressful way to finalize your divorce. Our attorneys can guide you through the process, ensuring that the settlement is fair and that your rights are fully protected.
In contested divorce cases, we will fight to ensure that your interests are protected, whether through negotiation or litigation. If disputes over child custody, property division, or support cannot be resolved, our attorneys are prepared to represent you vigorously in court.
In addition to divorce proceedings, we also assist with post-divorce modifications, enforcement of court orders, and Orders of Protection in both DuPage County and the surrounding areas.
If you are considering a divorce, or have already begun the process, Keller Legal Services can help. We offer compassionate and effective legal representation to clients in Downers Grove and the surrounding communities. Our team is dedicated to helping you secure the best possible outcome and providing you with the support you need during this challenging time.
Contact us today at 630-505-1515 to schedule a free initial consultation. We will review your case, answer your questions, and explain your legal options. Our office is conveniently located in Naperville, just off I-88 on Diehl Road.
