How to File for Divorce in Cook County
By Jonathan D. Steele | Updated January 2025
How to File for Divorce in Cook County
To file for divorce in Cook County, e-file through eFileIL.gov or submit a Petition for Dissolution of Marriage and Domestic Relations Cover Sheet to the Circuit Court Clerk at the Daley Center (50 W. Washington, Room 802). Filing fee is $337-$388. You or your spouse must have lived in Illinois for 90 days. After filing, serve your spouse and wait 30 days for their response.
Step-by-Step Filing Guide
Confirm You Meet Residency Requirements
Under 750 ILCS 5/104, you or your spouse must have lived in Illinois for at least 90 days before the court can grant a divorce. You can file immediately, but the divorce won't be finalized until the 90-day mark.
Complete Required Forms
You'll need several forms. The core documents are:
| Form | Purpose | Required? |
|---|---|---|
| Petition for Dissolution of Marriage | Initiates the divorce case | Always |
| Domestic Relations Cover Sheet (CCDR 0601) | Case information for the court | Always |
| Summons | Notifies your spouse of the lawsuit | Always |
| Parenting Plan (if children) | Proposed custody/visitation schedule | If kids under 18 |
| Financial Affidavit | Discloses income, assets, debts | Contested cases |
Forms are available at cookcountyclerkofcourt.org or the Daley Center.
File at Court or E-File Online
In-Person: Take your completed forms to the Domestic Relations Division at:
Richard J. Daley Center
50 W. Washington St., Room 802
Chicago, IL 60602
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM
Parking: Millennium Park Garage ($30-40/day)
E-Filing: File 24/7 through eFileIL.gov. Create an account, upload documents, and pay fees online. Often faster than in-person.
Pay Filing Fee ($337-$388)
The divorce filing fee in Cook County is approximately $337-$388 as of 2025. Additional fees apply for motions, subpoenas, and certified copies.
Can't afford it? Request a Fee Waiver (Application for Waiver of Court Fees) if your income is below 200% of federal poverty guidelines. The court reviews and approves most qualifying applications.
Serve Your Spouse
Your spouse must receive official notice of the divorce. Options:
- Sheriff Service ($50-80): Cook County Sheriff delivers papers. Takes 2-4 weeks.
- Private Process Server ($100-200): Faster, usually 1-2 weeks.
- Acceptance of Service: Spouse signs a form acknowledging receipt. Free and fastest if cooperative.
- Publication (last resort): If spouse can't be found, publish notice in newspaper. Requires court approval.
Wait for Response (30 Days)
Your spouse has 30 days to file a response (Answer or Appearance). If they don't respond, you can request a default judgment—the court may grant your requests without their input.
If they do respond, the case proceeds to either negotiation/settlement or litigation.
Cook County Courthouse Locations
Depending on where you live in Cook County, you may file at these locations:
Chicago (Downtown)
Daley Center, 50 W. Washington, Room 802
Skokie (North Suburbs)
5600 Old Orchard Road, Skokie
Bridgeview (Southwest)
10220 S. 76th Ave, Bridgeview
Maywood (West)
1500 Maybrook Dr, Maywood
Markham (South)
16501 S. Kedzie Pkwy, Markham
Rolling Meadows (Northwest)
2121 Euclid Ave, Rolling Meadows
Want Help Filing Your Divorce?
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I file for divorce online in Cook County?
Yes. E-file through eFileIL.gov. It's available 24/7, often faster than in-person filing, and you can pay fees by credit card.
What if I can't afford the filing fee?
Apply for a Fee Waiver if your income is below 200% of federal poverty guidelines. Most qualifying applications are approved.
How long does divorce take after I file?
Uncontested: 2-4 months. Contested: 6-18+ months. See our complete timeline guide.
Do both spouses have to agree to divorce?
No. One spouse can file and proceed even if the other refuses. Illinois is a no-fault state—you only need to state "irreconcilable differences."
Can I file if my spouse lives in another state?
Yes, if you meet Illinois residency requirements. However, the court may have limited jurisdiction over your spouse's property or custody if they have no connection to Illinois.