Statewide Representation in All 102 Illinois Counties
From Cook County to the collar counties and beyond. Digital forensics expertise for complex asset discovery. Partner at Beermann LLP with cybersecurity certifications.
Illinois divorce law operates under a unique framework that distinguishes it from other states. As an Illinois divorce lawyer, I navigate the Illinois Marriage and Dissolution of Marriage Act (IMDMA) daily, understanding nuances that out-of-state attorneys or generalist lawyers often miss.
Illinois eliminated "fault" divorce in 2016, making irreconcilable differences the sole ground for dissolution. But the complexity lies in how Illinois courts handle:
While based in Chicago, I handle divorce cases throughout Illinois. My practice extends to all major courthouse locations in the state.
Most Illinois divorce lawyers rely on standard discovery. I bring something different: cybersecurity expertise backed by certifications including CompTIA Security+, ISC2 CC, and EC-Council Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH).
This matters when your spouse:
The spouse filing (petitioner) files a Petition for Dissolution of Marriage in the circuit court of the county where either spouse resides. Illinois requires 90 days of residency.
The other spouse (respondent) must be served and has 30 days to file a response. This is where contested vs. uncontested paths diverge.
Both sides exchange financial information through interrogatories, document requests, and depositions. This is where hidden assets are uncovered.
Most cases settle through negotiation or mediation. If not, the case proceeds to trial where a judge decides all contested issues.
The court enters a Judgment for Dissolution of Marriage, which includes the Marital Settlement Agreement (MSA) and any parenting plan.
An uncontested Illinois divorce can be finalized in as little as 2-3 months after the mandatory waiting period. Contested divorces typically take 6-18 months depending on complexity, asset discovery needs, and custody disputes.
At least one spouse must have been a resident of Illinois for 90 days before filing for divorce. The case is typically filed in the county where either spouse resides.
Illinois is an equitable distribution state, not a community property state. This means assets are divided fairly but not necessarily equally. Courts consider factors like each spouse's contribution, duration of marriage, and economic circumstances.
Illinois courts use the "best interests of the child" standard. Factors include each parent's wishes, the child's relationship with each parent, adjustment to home and school, and any history of domestic violence. Illinois uses the term "parental responsibilities" rather than custody.
Illinois divorce attorney fees vary based on case complexity, from $5,000-$15,000 for uncontested matters to $25,000+ for high-conflict litigation. I offer transparent flat-fee arrangements for predictable matters and competitive hourly rates for complex cases. Every case starts with a free consultation.
Discuss your Illinois divorce case with an attorney who combines family law expertise with digital forensics capabilities. No obligation, no pressure.