What is a prove-up hearing in Illinois divorce?

A prove-up hearing is the final step in an uncontested Illinois divorce. You appear before a judge, testify under oath that your agreement is fair and voluntary, and the judge enters your Judgment for Dissolution of Marriage. It typically takes 10-15 minutes.

How long does a prove-up hearing take?

Most prove-up hearings take 10-15 minutes. You'll answer a series of standard questions from your attorney or the judge, confirm your agreement is voluntary, and the judge will enter the judgment. However, you may wait 30-60 minutes for your case to be called.

What questions will the judge ask at prove-up?

The judge will ask: your name and address, how long you've lived in Illinois, when you were married and separated, whether you have children, whether you've read and understand the agreement, whether you signed voluntarily, and whether you believe the terms are fair. Your attorney will guide you through each question.

Does my spouse have to attend the prove-up hearing?

In most uncontested divorces, only one spouse (the petitioner) needs to attend the prove-up hearing. The other spouse can waive appearance by signing appropriate documents. However, if both parties are represented, both may attend. Check with your attorney about your specific situation.

When am I officially divorced after prove-up?

You are officially divorced when the judge signs the Judgment for Dissolution of Marriage. This typically happens at the prove-up hearing itself. The judgment is effective immediately, though you'll receive certified copies within a few days to a week.

Prove-Up Hearing in Illinois Divorce | What to Expect & How to Prepare

What Is a Prove-Up Hearing?

A prove-up hearing is the final court appearance in an uncontested Illinois divorce. You "prove up" your case by testifying under oath that you meet the legal requirements for divorce and that your settlement agreement is fair and voluntary.

Think of it as the formality that transforms your agreement into a court order. The judge isn't there to question your decisions - just to make sure everything is in order and you understand what you're agreeing to.

What Happens at a Prove-Up

1

Check In

Arrive early, check in with the clerk, and wait for your case to be called

2

Sworn In

You'll be placed under oath and seated in the witness stand or at counsel table

3

Testimony

Answer standard questions about residency, marriage, children, and your agreement

4

Judgment Entered

Judge signs the Judgment for Dissolution - you're officially divorced

Standard Prove-Up Questions

Your attorney will ask these questions (or the judge will, in pro se cases):

Identification: State your name and current address
Residency: Have you lived in Illinois for at least 90 days?
Marriage: When and where were you married?
Separation: When did you last live together as spouses?
Irreconcilable Differences: Do irreconcilable differences exist that have caused the irretrievable breakdown of the marriage?
Children: Do you have any minor children? Is the wife pregnant?
Agreement: Have you read and do you understand the Marital Settlement Agreement?
Voluntariness: Did you sign voluntarily, without coercion?
Fairness: Do you believe the agreement is fair and reasonable?

How to Prepare

Documents

• Bring photo ID
• Your signed Marital Settlement Agreement
• Parenting Plan (if you have children)
• Any other documents your attorney requests

Appearance

• Dress professionally (business casual minimum)
• Arrive 15-30 minutes early
• Silence your phone
• Address the judge as "Your Honor"

Ready to Finalize Your Divorce?

Whether you need representation at your prove-up or want to ensure everything is in order, we can help you cross the finish line.

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