Divorce cases become complicated if the parties cannot agree on the terms. What should’ve been an uncontested divorce could become contested if a spouse feels they’ve been slighted. Rockford divorce lawyers offer guidance for petitioners unsure what to do next.
Fulfill Residency Requirements
Divorce petitioners must establish residency in the state of Illinois. State laws require a 90-day residency before starting a divorce case, and the petitioner proves residency via a new Illinois driver’s license, mortgage documents, or a rental agreement.
No-Fault Divorce State
Illinois is a no-fault divorce state, so petitioners cannot use fault-based divorce grounds. Irreconcilable differences indicate that the marriage suffered an unretrievable breakdown, and the couple cannot continue the marriage.
The Divorce Agreements
Divorce agreements lay out the divorce terms, including property division, debt division, spousal maintenance orders, child custody and support orders, and any further financial obligations related to the couple’s children.
Marital property division is based on an equitable division, which doesn’t mean it is equal in value. The couple’s financial circumstances can affect what is fair to each party. It includes bank accounts, real estate, household items, furniture, and anything purchased during the marriage.
If the couple reaches an agreement, they could get a final judgment within 90 days of filing. However, if mediation and other efforts to reach an agreement fail, the couple attends a divorce trial. Divorce trials could last up to two years.
Divorces aren’t simple or easy for every couple, and attorneys offer help to finalize the divorce agreement. Attorneys can reduce common mistakes that lead to unwanted outcomes. Visit Crosby & Crosby Attorneys at Law’s website for more information about Illinois divorce cases and how Rockford divorce lawyers can help you.
