In the early 1950s, Rolling Meadows was a housing development. Like much of Chicagoland, the area grew rapidly during subsequent years. Today, it is one of the most affordable and diverse suburbs in Cook County. Rolling Meadows has changed a lot since the 1950s. But the people are much the same. Similarly, Illinois’ divorce laws have changed a lot as well. However, the underlying principles in these marriage dissolution laws have not changed much.Â
The experienced divorce lawyers in Rolling Meadows at Andrea Heckman Law have not handled marriage dissolutions since the 1950s. However, we do have decades of experience in this area. Over the years, we have developed proven methods. These methods allow us to deliver cost-effective and long-lasting solutions that make a big difference for you and your family. While we work to resolve these matters quickly, we always stand up for your legal and financial rights.
Before 2016, filing divorce in Illinois was rather complex. No-fault divorce was available. However, the waiting period was up to two years. Many people who had delayed filing for quite some time did not want to wait another 24 months. So, many filers opted for an evidence-based divorce.
Cruel treatment, a rather vague phrase which could include almost any behavior, was usually the fault ground of choice. If contested, these divorces could get nasty (e.g. Maybe I didn’t love you quite as often as I should have, but you left toothpaste in the sink). Furthermore, since some defenses are available to faulty-based divorce, the outcome was not guaranteed.
Recent legal changes essentially give Illinois divorce filers the best of both worlds. Lawmakers eliminated most kinds of evidence-based divorce and also ended the two-year waiting period. Therefore, many divorces, especially if the parties completely agree on all issues, can be resolved rather quickly and quietly.
Unfortunately, complete agreement on all issues is almost impossible. Typically, the spouses agree on broad, general principles. However, they disagree on the specifics. Some of these specific issues include:
Usually, property division orders are set in stone. It’s difficult to re-open such matters once the judge finalizes them. The other two areas are different. If financial, emotional, or other circumstances materially and substantially change, the judge can modify the existing orders to fit the new reality.
Divorce usually involves financial and emotional issues. For a free consultation with an experienced divorce lawyer in Rolling Meadows, contact Andrea Heckman Law, Ltd. Convenient payment plans are available.
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.