Frequently Asked Questions

Divorce costs vary significantly based on complexity. An uncontested divorce may cost $3,000-$5,000, while contested cases involving business valuations, custody disputes, or hidden assets can range from $15,000 to $100,000+. During your consultation, we'll provide a realistic cost estimate based on your specific circumstances.

Illinois requires a minimum 6-month separation period before a divorce can be finalized. Uncontested divorces can be completed shortly after that waiting period. Contested cases typically take 12-18 months, and complex high-net-worth cases may take 2+ years depending on discovery, valuations, and trial schedules.

Legal separation allows couples to live apart and address property, support, and custody issues while remaining legally married. Some choose this for religious reasons, health insurance coverage, or uncertainty about divorce. Unlike divorce, legal separation can be converted to divorce later, but you cannot remarry until divorced.

Illinois follows 'equitable distribution,' meaning marital property is divided fairly—but not necessarily equally. Courts consider factors like each spouse's contributions, earning capacity, age, health, and child custody arrangements. Separate property (inheritances, pre-marital assets) typically remains with the original owner if properly documented.

Illinois courts prioritize the child's best interests, considering factors like each parent's relationship with the child, the child's adjustment to home and school, mental/physical health of all parties, and any history of domestic violence. Courts favor arrangements that allow meaningful relationships with both parents when safe.

Spousal maintenance is financial support paid by one spouse to another. Illinois uses a formula: 33.33% of the payor's net income minus 25% of the payee's net income (capped at 40% of combined income). Duration depends on marriage length—longer marriages typically result in longer maintenance periods.

While Illinois is a no-fault state, dating during divorce can complicate matters. New relationships may affect custody evaluations, create additional expenses that impact support calculations, or inflame settlement negotiations. We recommend waiting until the divorce is finalized.

Document everything. Gather financial records, tax returns, bank statements, and business documents. Take photos of valuables. Note any unusual transactions or behavior. As a cybersecurity-certified attorney, I use forensic techniques to uncover hidden assets, offshore accounts, cryptocurrency holdings, and business undervaluations.

While you can legally represent yourself, even 'uncontested' divorces involve complex legal documents and long-term consequences. Mistakes in property division or support calculations can cost far more than attorney fees. A consultation ensures you understand your rights before signing anything.

Options include: one spouse buys out the other's equity, sell and split proceeds, or continue co-ownership temporarily (common when children are involved). The decision depends on your financial situation, mortgage terms, and whether either spouse can afford to maintain the home independently.

Bring: recent tax returns, pay stubs, bank/investment statements, mortgage documents, prenuptial agreements, and a list of assets/debts. Write down your questions and timeline of key events. The more prepared you are, the more specific guidance I can provide.

I combine family law expertise with cybersecurity credentials (CompTIA Security+, CEH, ISC2 CC). This means I can find hidden digital assets, detect spyware on your devices, secure your communications, and present digital evidence that holds up in court. For high-net-worth and complex cases, this technical edge matters.