When a couple decides to end their marriage, it is not so easy as simply agreeing to get divorced. Depending on the circumstances, a divorce can be quite a complicated and difficult process and the right steps will depend on your preferred strategy and goals. However, the general process of most divorces is fairly similar and follows a necessary set of steps. If you are interested in starting the divorce process or have more questions about how divorce works in Illinois, schedule a meeting with a Chicago divorce attorney right away.
Should We File for Divorce in Illinois?
The first step when filing for divorce is determining whether you meet the residency requirements for filing in a particular place. In Illinois, you must have lived in the state for at least 90 days unless you have minor children involved in the divorce, in which case the residency requirement is extended to 180 days. You and your spouse do not both have to have residency in Illinois to file for divorce; only one spouse needs to be in the state.
Do We Need To Have Grounds For Divorce?
No. In Illinois, the only grounds necessary and acceptable for divorce are “irreconcilable differences.” If both of you agree to get divorced, the process can proceed right away. If one spouse does not want to get divorced, you will need to live “separate and apart” (but not necessarily in separate households) before the process can move forward.
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