Just the other day I spoke a potential client who was interested in obtaining a divorce. Since he had heard horror stories from some of his friends and family, he was dreading the process. However, after I spoke with him I learned he might be able to take advantage of an uncontested divorce.
In Illinois, an uncontested divorce is one where the spouses agree on all aspects of the divorce, including the division of assets, child custody, child support, spousal maintenance (alimony), and the like. For a bit more about that, you might want to check out my post “What is an Uncontested Divorce in Illinois?”
The uncontested divorce process is fairly simple, and can generally be broken down into three phases:
- Filing: One of the spouses must file a Petition for Dissolution of Marriage. That starts the case. Then, the other spouse should file a response.
- Negotiation: The spouses can negotiate details of a marital settlement agreement, and a joint parenting agreement (if they have kids). These documents spell out the terms of the divorce.
- Prove-Up/Divorce: The spouses go to court and essentially are asked to confirm the statements made in the various settlement agreements. Then, the judge dissolves the marriage.
By agreeing on all issues, spouses can spare themselves the agony and expense of drawn-out legal battles. Instead of taking a case to trial only to achieve predictable results, spouses in an uncontested divorce focus on other aspects of their lives – as they should.
The possibility of an uncontested divorce highlights the importance of communication and peace between divorcing spouses. But if bitterness rules and spouses are intent on using the legal system to exact revenge, an uncontested divorce may not be possible.
{ 2 comments… read them below or add one }
Im 27, my husband and I both do agree on everthing we have 2 of our own children ages 5,2. I havent be livin with him for over half a year, im not to sure how to get this started we both want it over with, I just dont have.the money for it im trying to see what the best way to get this done with. Please email me back on info thank.
Christina,
An uncontested divorce can be very affordable. Please send me your phone number via my contact form, and we can discuss the options. So long as you both truly agree on everything about your property and kids, getting an uncontested divorce in Illinois should be very expensive, or take too long.
Regards,
Chicago Divorce Attorney David Wolkowitz