The Complete High-Asset Divorce Timeline: What to Expect in Illinois

Published: 3/23/2026
By Jonathan D. Steele
The Complete High-Asset Divorce Timeline: What to Expect in Illinois

What should you know about the complete high-asset divorce timeline: what to expect in illinois?

Quick Answer: Case Summary: In re Marriage of Padilla - This article outlines the 9-18 month timeline for high-asset divorce proceedings in Illinois, covering phases from initial property classification through post-judgment appeals. A key legal point highlighted is the burden-shifting framework in dissipation claims: once a spouse establishes a prima facie case showing marital funds were spent after the marriage breakdown, the burden shifts entirely to the spending spouse to provide clear, specific evidence that the funds were used for marital purposes—with the court in *In re Marriage of Padilla* affirming that vague references to "household expenses" are insufficient to meet this burden.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do appellate decisions affect my divorce case?

Published Illinois appellate opinions can establish precedent that binds trial courts; Rule 23 orders are nonprecedential. A relevant appellate disposition may still inform case strategy, but its publication, citation status, and later history should be checked before relying on it.

Can I appeal my divorce judgment in Illinois?

Yes, but appeals are limited to legal errors, not disagreement with factual findings. You must file a notice of appeal within 30 days of the final judgment. Appellate courts review whether the trial court applied the law correctly and whether findings are against the manifest weight of evidence.

What does a '-U' designation mean for an Illinois appellate decision?

A -U designation identifies a nonprecedential Rule 23(b) written order. Under Rule 23(e)(1), an order entered on or after January 1, 2021 may be cited for persuasive purposes, but it is not binding precedent. An older Rule 23(b) order may be cited only to support double jeopardy, res judicata, collateral estoppel, or law of the case.

Jonathan D. Steele

Written by Jonathan D. Steele

Chicago divorce attorney with cybersecurity certifications (Security+, ISC2 CC, Google Cybersecurity Professional Certificate). Illinois Super Lawyers Rising Star 2016-2025.

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