Dealing with a divorce can be one of the most difficult challenges of your life. Whether you’re facing a contested or uncontested divorce, navigating the legal process can often feel overwhelming. At Keller Legal Services, we’re here to provide the legal support and guidance you need during this trying time. Our team of dedicated attorneys works to ensure that you have the resources and experience necessary to navigate through the divorce process with confidence, whether you’re in Oak Brook or surrounding areas.
For over 30 years, Keller Legal Services has been assisting clients in Oak Brook with divorce and family law matters, including legal separation, child custody, child support, spousal maintenance, and more. We understand the complexity of divorce and are committed to delivering personalized, results-driven legal solutions for each client we serve.
In Illinois, couples seeking a divorce can pursue a no-fault divorce based on irreconcilable differences. This means neither party is required to prove wrongdoing or assign blame. In many cases, this approach allows for a smoother, less contentious divorce process. Irreconcilable differences may include a breakdown in communication, emotional disconnection, or other issues that make the marriage untenable.
To file for divorce in Illinois, one spouse must have lived in the state for at least 90 days before filing. The divorce process begins with submitting a Petition for Dissolution of Marriage to the appropriate court. The petition will detail important information such as the duration of the marriage, children (if any), and the issues to be resolved. At this stage, it’s important to have an attorney who understands the process and can help you avoid common pitfalls. Our attorneys will guide you through the entire procedure to ensure everything is filed correctly and promptly.
The duration of the divorce process varies greatly depending on whether the divorce is contested or uncontested. If the divorce is uncontested, meaning both parties agree on all issues like asset division, child custody, and support, it can often be completed within a few months. However, contested divorces, where there are disputes about key issues, may take much longer—often more than a year—depending on court availability, the complexity of the case, and negotiation timelines.
In Illinois, marital property is divided according to the principle of equitable distribution. This means that property is divided fairly but not necessarily equally. The court considers several factors when determining the division of assets, such as the length of the marriage, each spouse’s financial contributions, and the future financial needs of each party. It’s important to note that assets acquired before the marriage or gifts/inheritances may be excluded from the division. If you are concerned about property division, we’ll work with you to protect your rights.
Illinois law focuses on the best interests of the child when determining custody arrangements. The court allocates parental responsibilities (making decisions regarding the child’s well-being) and parenting time (the amount of time each parent spends with the child). Several factors are considered, including the parents’ relationship with the child, each parent’s ability to meet the child’s needs, and the child’s adjustment to home, school, and community.
Child support in Illinois is based on the income of the non-custodial parent and the amount of parenting time each parent has. Support is calculated using guidelines that ensure the child’s needs are met. It’s important that child support orders are properly established and modified if there are significant changes in circumstances.
Circumstances can change after a divorce is finalized, and when that happens, custody or support orders may need to be modified. Examples of significant changes that might warrant modifications include a change in a parent’s income, relocation, or a child’s evolving needs. If you need help modifying or enforcing an existing court order, Keller Legal Services can help guide you through the process.
In Illinois, spousal support (also called alimony) may be awarded when one spouse is unable to support themselves following a divorce. Factors such as the length of the marriage, the financial and non-financial contributions of each spouse, the standard of living during the marriage, and the needs of both parties are considered when determining whether spousal support is necessary. In some cases, the court may award temporary or permanent support depending on the specific situation.
At Keller Legal Services, we understand that divorce is more than just a legal process—it’s a life-changing event that requires careful planning and personalized attention. Our team of skilled attorneys is here to provide you with legal guidance, help you navigate the complexities of divorce, and make the entire process as smooth and straightforward as possible.
If both parties are in agreement on all major issues (such as property division, child custody, and support), an uncontested divorce is often the quickest and least costly way to finalize your divorce. Our team will help you negotiate terms that are fair and beneficial for both parties, ensuring the divorce is completed efficiently and with minimal stress.
In a contested divorce, the parties cannot agree on key issues, and the case may go to court. This can make the divorce process more complicated and costly. At Keller Legal Services, we are committed to advocating for your best interests, whether through negotiation or litigation, to help you achieve a favorable outcome in court.
Divorce doesn’t end when the decree is finalized. As circumstances change, it may be necessary to modify child custody, child support, or other divorce-related orders. Our attorneys can help you petition the court for modifications or enforce existing orders to ensure that your rights and your children’s best interests are protected.
If you are in a situation where domestic violence or threats are present, Keller Legal Services can help you obtain an order of protection. We will provide you with the legal support you need to protect your safety and your rights.
At Keller Legal Services, we are committed to providing the support you need during your divorce. Whether your case is uncontested or requires aggressive litigation, our experienced attorneys are here to guide you every step of the way.
Our office is conveniently located in Naperville—just a quick trip down I-88, exiting at Naperville Road. Let us be your trusted partner as you navigate this challenging time and work toward a brighter future.
Call Keller Legal Services today at 630-505-1515 to schedule a free initial consultation. Together, we can work toward a positive resolution.
