Illinois was one of the few states that legalized same-sex marriage before the United States Supreme Court made such marriages legal at the federal level. Beginning in 2013, Illinois recognized same-sex marriages, paving the way for greater rights for gay and lesbian couples.

Many of the people who suddenly had their relationships recognized by the state in 2013 or after the Supreme Court ruling two years later had been in a committed relationship with their partner for years at that point. Those with same-sex, committed relationships predating the legalization of same-sex marriages in Illinois may have unique concerns if they divorce.

The tension between you and your spouse during a divorce can make court proceedings more difficult. The relationship between the two of you can also impact the relationship that each of you has with the children.

Some people will use their children like weapons during or after a contentious divorce. They will interfere in the relationship that the other parent has with the children and even try to turn the children against that parent. The result is not just damage to the parent who becomes alienated from the children. This process is also emotionally and psychologically damaging for the kids.

Parents are legally required to provide for their children the necessities they require to thrive in life. In an event of a divorce or separation, the family court may direct the non-custodial parent to pay child support to the custodial parent. This payment ensures the custodial parent has the resources to finance the child's needs.

Unfortunately, not all parents follow through with this obligation. As a result, they may end up stopping or getting behind in child support payments. It is important to note that child support is enforceable should you fail to keep up with the payments.

Your marriage may have gotten to the point where you and your spouse could no longer see eye to eye. Disagreements and tension in the household may have reached levels that you both could no longer cope with. This is what motivated you to pursue a divorce.

Despite the conflicts they may have had in the marriage, one thing that parents generally have in common is their child's best interests. They want their children to thrive, despite the marital situation. This is possible, but it requires effort from both parties and effective communication techniques. Outlined below are some tips that could help ensure that communication between co-parents runs as smoothly as possible after the separation.

Timing is crucial

Even the most successful co-parenting relationships will run into obstacles occasionally. The trick is to try to resolve disputes with minimal levels of conflict. If sensitive matters have to be discussed, then it is best to hold them out of the earshot of the children. Children tend not to take conflict or tense atmospheres very well, and they may blame themselves if they witness a fight between their parents.

If you and your spouse can agree on all important issues, you should consider having an uncontested divorce.

Unlike a contested divorce, you do not have to involve the court from the onset. You can have a mutual agreement on how to proceed with everything, from child custody to property division. All you will need from the court is to approve the agreement you have come up with.

Why should you consider an uncontested divorce?

An uncontested divorce is cheaper since it does not involve substantial legal fees. You are likely to conclude the divorce process faster since there are no contests pitting you against each other.