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Get Through Your Divorce Quickly And Cordially

The divorce process can be stressful and overwhelming. That’s why you need a compassionate divorce attorney. You want your attorney to know who you are and treat you with respect. You want to know that they are on your side.

At Law Offices of Stuart A. Reid P.C., we are on your side. We have helped clients in Deerfield with their family law problems since 2004. You can feel confident in us as your representative for your divorce.

Frequently Asked Questions About Divorce

Divorce is a lot to deal with, and it’s even worse when you are so uncertain about what is directly ahead of you. We want to provide you with the answers you need to your questions so you can be confident in your next steps.

What is the divorce process in Illinois?

To get a divorce in Illinois you’ll go through three general stages:

  • Filing: In addition to acquiring and filling out the paper work for the divorce, this can include even preparatory actions like a six-month separation, which implies irreconcilable differences.
  • Pre-trial: This piece can include all the negotiation and discussions had between the sides to see if an agreement can be reached on issues like asset division, child custody and alimony/spousal support before going to court to resolve the unresolvable matters.
  • Finalization: Finalization will be done in the courtroom. This is where final arguments are heard regarding any unresolved marital issues, and the judge issues a determination. This is where the final decrees will be made.

These general categories are not official, but rather for you to more fully understand the timeline of your divorce. The exact amount of time you spend on your divorce may depend a lot on how each stage goes and how much conflict you must resolve.

How are assets and debts divided in a divorce?

In Illinois, debts and assets are divided based on equitable division, meaning that the split is not necessarily going to be even. An equitable division will look at multiple factors, from the length of the marriage to each side’s contribution to determine the ultimate settlement.

Do I need a lawyer if my divorce is uncontested?

While an uncontested divorce is simpler and more amicable, having an attorney help you finalize all of the issues and ensure your protection are vital. Many “uncontested” divorces are in actuality a divorce where one party takes advantage of the other’s desire to “not start a fight.”

If you and your spouse want to keep things amicable but need professional guidance to ensure a fair outcome, you may want to consider collaborative divorce as an alternative to traditional litigation. As your attorneys, we’ll make sure that you are not just signing something to be done with it, and your divorce is actually fair.

Be Prepared For Your Initial Consultation

When you choose us for your divorce representation, we will leave nothing to chance. We want to look at everything, so please bring a list of questions, your tax returns and a summary of your assets and liabilities. Schedule your initial consultation today by calling 847-504-8694 or sending an email using this online form.