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Cook County Divorce Guide

Filing for Divorce at the Daley Center

Everything you need to know about Cook County divorce procedures, from required documents to courthouse logistics. Attorney Jonathan D. Steele, licensed since 2012.

Free Consultation: (847) 260-7330

Quick Answer: Filing for Divorce in Cook County

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

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

Timeline: Varies by case - uncontested divorces may take 2-4 months; contested cases typically 6-18+ months

Understanding Cook County Divorce Procedures

Cook County handles more divorce cases than any other county in Illinois. Whether your case is straightforward or complex, understanding the local procedures at the Daley Center can help you navigate the process more effectively.

The Richard J. Daley Center

The Daley Center at 50 W. Washington Street is the main courthouse for Cook County civil matters, including divorce. The Domestic Relations Division on the 7th floor handles all divorce, custody, support, and related family law matters for Chicago residents.

Key Locations at the Daley Center

  • •Domestic Relations Division: 7th Floor
  • •Clerk of Court (Filing): Room 802, 8th Floor
  • •Self-Help Center: Lower Level, Room LL-17
  • •Mediation Services: 7th Floor

Filing Fees and Costs

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

Step-by-Step Filing Process

1

Prepare Your Documents

Required forms include the Petition for Dissolution of Marriage, Summons, and Domestic Relations Cover Sheet.

2

File at the Clerk's Office

Submit documents at Room 802. Pay filing fee or submit fee waiver application.

3

Serve Your Spouse

Options include sheriff service, private process server, or acceptance of service.

4

Response Period

Your spouse has 30 days to respond. This determines if case proceeds contested or uncontested.

5

Discovery and Negotiation

Parties exchange financial information. Many cases settle during this phase.

6

Final Hearing

Many prove-up hearings are now conducted via Zoom.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to file for divorce in Cook County?
As of 2025, the filing fee is approximately $388. Fees are subject to change - verify with the Cook County Clerk. Fee waivers may be available.
Where do I file for divorce in Cook County?
Richard J. Daley Center, 50 W. Washington Street, Chicago, IL 60602. Domestic Relations Division on 7th floor, filing in Room 802.
How long does a Cook County divorce take?
Timelines vary significantly. Uncontested: 2-4 months. Contested: 6-18 months or longer depending on issues.
What documents do I need?
Petition for Dissolution, Summons, State Certificate, Domestic Relations Cover Sheet. Additional forms if children involved.
Do I need to go to the Daley Center?
Chicago residents file at Daley Center. Suburban residents may use local courthouses. Many hearings now via Zoom.

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.

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