It’s uncommon to feel isolated and alone when going through a divorce. You’re facing an uncertain financial future, and even more importantly, your role in your children’s lives could change when all is said and done. However, you don’t have to face this alone. During this challenging time, you need a reliable advocate whom you can count on to walk you through each step of this often overwhelming process. An experienced divorce attorney in Rolling Meadows can provide the legal support you and your children need both inside and outside of the courtroom.
Unlike some states, Illinois doesn’t require a mandatory waiting or cooling-off period for uncontested divorces. The only requirement is that one spouse has to live in the state for 90 days prior to the divorce filing. If there are minor children involved, one spouse must have lived here for a minimum of six months prior.
If the divorce is contested, a six-month waiting period might apply. However, a divorce can still move forward even if one spouse doesn’t agree to it or agreements can’t be reached on the major issues.Â
Divorces that don’t involve kids, in which the couple can reach agreements, and there are little assets are the ones that are resolved quickest. Couples who have significant or complex assets, can’t negotiate a divorce settlement, or have kids can anticipate that their divorce process will take longer.Â
Representation from a skilled Rolling Meadows divorce lawyer can help ensure that your divorce doesn’t take any longer than it needs to and that the process is a smooth one. It’s best to consult with an attorney to determine how long your divorce might take. However, most divorces take less than one year.
Child custody is now referred to as parenting time and parental responsibilities. Parenting time addresses where the child will live and when and how long they will visit the non-custodial parent. Parental responsibility refers to which parent will have decision-making authority for the child. This parent will be responsible for making significant decisions for the child, such as those regarding healthcare, education, and religion.
It’s always best if parents can negotiate plans regarding parenting time and responsibilities. An experienced divorce attorney in Rolling Meadows can help in these negotiations and even offer potential solutions. If the couple can’t agree, their divorce will be contested, and the family court judge will determine the outcome of these critical issues. These types of divorces can take longer and give each parent less control over the outcome.
Your divorce settlement will impact the rest of your life. It must be taken seriously and handled with care. When you reach out to the skilled divorce attorney in Rolling Meadows at Andrea Heckman Law, you are taking the first step in reaching a positive outcome in your divorce. Contact our office today to schedule a divorce case review with an experienced and compassionate attorney.Â
Please contact our law office in Rolling Meadows for legal assistance with divorce, child custody, or visitation issues. We serve clients in the Chicago metropolitan area who need the help of an experienced and dedicated family law attorney.