So You Want Out of Wedlock Wedlock: A (Slightly) Comedic Guide to Divorce in Illinois
Let's be honest, Illinois winters are brutal, but that shouldn't be the only reason you're considering a divorce (although, if it is, who are we to judge?). If your marriage has hit a bumpier road than a Chicago deep dish pizza delivery on a moped, then this guide might be for you.
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| How To Get Divorce In Illinois |
But First, Am I Even Eligible?
The Land of Lincoln, like many states, has a residency requirement. You or your soon-to-be-ex must have chilled in Illinois for at least 90 days before filing for divorce. So, if you just married in Vegas last weekend and now have regrets hotter than the Chicago Fire, you might need to pump the brakes (on the divorce, not the gambling... although that's not a bad idea either).
QuickTip: Skim the intro, then dive deeper.
**Grounds for Divorce: It's All About the "I irreconcilably Differ"
Illinois is a no-fault divorce state, which basically means you don't need to play the blame game. There are no points awarded for who "messed up" more. Whether you argue about deep dish versus thin crust pizza, or who gets to control the thermostat (because let's be real, that's a dealbreaker in Illinois), all you need to prove is that you have irreconcilable differences that have wrecked your marriage beyond repair.
The Fun Part (said no one ever): Paperwork Palooza!
QuickTip: Ask yourself what the author is trying to say.
Once you've established residency and realized you can't live with your spouse another minute (even if it means missing out on their amazing Italian beef recipe), then comes the glorious world of paperwork. Head down to your local courthouse and file a Petition for Dissolution of Marriage. Don't worry, it's not brain surgery (although if your spouse were a brain surgeon, that might be a reason for divorce...). There are even online resources to help you with the forms, so you can avoid deciphering legalese that would confuse even Abraham Lincoln himself.
But Wait, There's More! (Because Divorce is Rarely Simple)
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If you and your soon-to-be-ex can't agree on things like dividing your beanie baby collection or who gets the dog (because let's face it, who wouldn't fight for Fido?), then brace yourself for a trip to court. A judge will listen to your woes (and probably wonder why anyone would willingly leave Chicago-style hot dogs behind), and then make a final decision. This is where having a good lawyer in your corner is crucial.
QuickTip: Short pauses improve understanding.
Okay, I'm In It to Win It (or at least get a Fair Share)
Getting a divorce can be a messy business, but with a little planning and maybe a tub of Ben & Jerry's, you can get through it. Here are some quick FAQs to get you started:
How to File for Divorce in Illinois: Head down to your local courthouse and file a Petition for Dissolution of Marriage. There are also online resources to help you with the forms.
Tip: Summarize each section in your own words.
How Long Does a Divorce Take in Illinois? Uncontested divorces (where you and your spouse agree on everything) can take as little as 6 months, while contested divorces can take much longer.
How Much Does a Divorce Cost in Illinois? The filing fees vary by county, but you can expect to pay a few hundred dollars. If you lawyer up, then the costs can add up quickly.
Do I Need a Lawyer to Get a Divorce in Illinois? You don't necessarily need a lawyer, but it's highly recommended, especially if you have children or significant assets.
What About My Kids? If you have children, you'll need to work out a parenting plan that includes child custody and support.
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