161 N. Clark St., Suite 3000, Chicago, IL 60601 | 📞 (847) 260-7330

Cook County Divorce Guide

Filing for Divorce in Cook County

Everything you need to know about Cook County divorce procedures at the Richard J. Daley Center. Attorney Jonathan D. Steele, licensed since 2012.

Free Case Assessment: (847) 260-7330

Quick Answer: Filing for Divorce in Cook County

Where: Richard J. Daley Center, 50 W. Washington St., Chicago, IL 60602 (Domestic Relations Division, 7th Floor)

Filing Fee: ~$388 (fees subject to change - verify with Clerk)

E-Filing: Mandatory e-filing via Odyssey eFileIL or approved service providers. Paper filing only for self-represented without internet access.

Mediation: Mandatory mediation for contested custody/parenting time cases. Many judges require mediation before temporary hearings.

The Richard J. Daley Center

Courthouse Information

  • •
    Address:
    50 W. Washington St., Chicago, IL 60602
  • •
    Division:
    Domestic Relations Division, 7th Floor
  • •
    Filing Location:
    Room 802 (8th Floor)
  • •
    Circuit:
    1st Judicial Circuit (Cook County Circuit Court)

Practical Logistics

  • •
    Parking:
    Underground parking at Daley Center ($35/day) or nearby lots on Clark and LaSalle. CTA Blue/Red lines to Clark/Lake recommended.
  • •
    Security:
    Expect airport-style security screening. Arrive 20+ minutes early. No weapons, liquids, or outside food/drink.
  • •
    Remote Hearings:
    Most prove-up hearings and status calls conducted via Zoom. Contested evidentiary hearings typically in-person.

Courtroom Assignment

Courtrooms 1301-1308 handle most domestic relations matters. Cases are randomly assigned upon filing.

Filing Fees & Costs

Important: Court fees are subject to change. Always verify current amounts with the Cook County Clerk before filing.

  • Petition for Dissolution (Filing Fee) ~$388
  • Appearance Fee (Respondent) ~$206
  • Service of Process $50-150
  • Certified Copies $10-25 each

Fee waivers may be available if you qualify based on income.

Local Rules & Requirements

Cook County Local Rules supplement Illinois Supreme Court Rules. Financial affidavits (Rule 13.3.1) required within 60 days of filing.

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Services We Provide

Attorney Jonathan D. Steele brings specialized expertise to complex family law matters.

High-Net-Worth Divorce

Complex asset division, business valuation, executive compensation, and stock options.

Child Custody & Parenting

Allocation of parental responsibilities, parenting time schedules, and relocation cases.

Digital Privacy Protection

Cybersecurity expertise to detect surveillance and protect your digital assets.

Frequently Asked Questions

FAQs updated monthly to reflect Cook County court rules and local procedures.

What time do domestic relations calls start at the Daley Center?
Most calls begin at 9:00 AM or 9:30 AM. Check your notice for specific courtroom call times.
Can I park at the Daley Center?
Underground parking is available ($35/day), but public transit (CTA) is recommended due to downtown congestion.
Are Cook County divorce hearings on Zoom?
Many routine matters are conducted remotely. Contested evidentiary hearings are typically in-person.
How are judges assigned in Cook County divorce cases?
Cases are randomly assigned to courtrooms 1301-1308 upon filing. You cannot choose your judge.

Nearby City Divorce Pages

Explore city-specific guidance near Cook County.

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Need Help With Your Cook County Divorce?

Schedule a consultation to discuss your specific situation with Attorney Jonathan D. Steele.

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ATTORNEY ADVERTISING. This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. No attorney-client relationship is created. Past results do not guarantee future outcomes. Court fees subject to change. Licensed in Illinois.