Divorce Lawyers Palatine

Divorce Lawyers Palatine

Whether you are contemplating divorce, your spouse filed for divorce, or you want to file for divorce, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. There are many unanswered questions, uncertainties, and issues to address. The good news is that many of them can be answered or alleviated with the help of a well-versed divorce attorney in Palatine. No matter where you are in the divorce process, it’s essential to hire legal representation to look out for your best interests and stand up for your rights. 

What Issues Should be Addressed in Your Divorce?

It’s crucial to remember that divorce is a process. There are multiple issues that you will need to address and hopefully work out with your soon-to-be ex-spouse. If you aren’t able to negotiate the terms of these issues, a family court judge will need to determine them for you. Most every divorce will need to address:

• The division of assets and debts
• Spousal support or alimony
• Parental responsibilities, also known as legal custody 
• Parenting time, also known as child custody and visitation

An experienced Palatine divorce lawyer can help you identify the matters that you need to address as well as negotiate on your behalf with your spouse. 

How Are Assets Divided?

Illinois law requires that assets in a divorce are divided with the premise of equitable distribution. First, each asset must be identified as either individual or marital property. Individual property is typically property that one spouse owned before the marriage. It can also be something that one spouse received as a gift or through an inheritance. Marital property is everything else and is subject to equitable distribution. 

What if Your Spouse Doesn’t Agree to Divorce?

Sometimes one spouse refuses to participate in the divorce process. However, a divorce can be finalized without the signature of both parties. You will need to file for divorce and ensure that your spouse is served with the related court documents. They have 30 days to respond. If they don’t respond within 30 days or file any motions in court, you can request a default judgment. Your case will be set for a hearing. If your spouse doesn’t show up for the hearing, they forfeit their right to assert their rights or opinions in the divorce process. 

In cases where the other spouse can’t be located, you must be able to show that you made reasonable attempts to find them and notify them that you filed a divorce petition.  

When a spouse realizes that the divorce can proceed with or without their cooperation, most will decide to cooperate. Even if they continue to refuse to participate, your divorce attorney in Palatine can still ensure that your divorce proceeds as it should according to Illinois family law.

Contact an Experienced Palatine Divorce Lawyer for Help Today

No matter what types of issues you face in your divorce, an experienced divorce attorney in Palatine from Andrea Heckman Law can help. Our lawyers take the time to listen to your circumstances and desires. We leverage our knowledge and experience to obtain the best possible outcome in your divorce. Contact us today to meet with a divorce attorney who is ready to help.