The process for a quick divorce, which is technically called a simplified divorce, is outlined in Section 452 of the Illinois Marriage and Dissolution of Marriage Statutes. In a nutshell, couples without children, assets, or debts might be eligible for this streamlined procedure if they totally agree on all details. These general qualifications eliminate almost all couples, but this process is available in a few cases.
Simplified divorce is used so rarely that not many attorneys are familiar with the process. So, if you are considering marriage dissolution, you need to work with a dedicated Rolling Meadows divorce lawyer who can inform you of all your legal options. Your attorney must also be able to explain the pros and cons of each approach, so you can make the best decision for you and your family.
The general requirements outlined above put a simplified divorce out of reach for many couples. The specific rules are designed to weed out most of the couples who express an interest in this process. These rules include:
Furthermore, the parties must have an extremely detailed written agreement that specifically divides all assets and debts that exceed $100.
Even an uncontested divorce in Illinois usually takes at least several months to resolve. But Rolling Meadows divorce lawyers can wrap up a simplified divorce, assuming the couple meets all the aforementioned qualifications, in just three steps.
First, both parties must submit joint simplified divorce paperwork to the Circuit Court Clerk in the county where either one of them resides. As soon as the judge sees this petition, s/he immediately schedules a final hearing. There are no preliminary hearings or other such things in a simplified divorce.
Next, the parties must submit an affidavit which states that they have divided all assets or debts in accordance with the written agreement they also submitted. This legal division, such as changing the names on accounts, must be complete before the final hearing.
Finally, at the hearing, which both parties and their attorneys must attend, the judge reviews all the paperwork and finalizes the divorce.
The most common reasons that people do not meet the qualifications are that one spouse has left the state or their property/income does not meet the required limits. In these cases, either an absentee spouse divorce or an agreed divorce is usually available. The procedures in these two kinds of divorce are a little more complex, but they are not much more time-consuming.
Not many people qualify for a simple divorce, but the option is available. For a free consultation with an experienced divorce lawyer in Rolling Meadows, contact Andrea Heckman Law, Ltd. We routinely handle matters throughout Chicagoland.
Walked in just for consultation, and in less than 45 days, my case was closed! Thanks to attorney Andrea Heckman, with all her passion and professional manner! Couldn’t be happier! Thank you so much for everything! Great attorney for all family needs! Thank you.
From the moment I walked in as a client to the end when everything was complete, I was very pleased with attorney Andrea Heckman, her knowledge, and professionalism! Her whole staff was always helpful. I would use them again if needed and refer them to everyone I know! Thank you.
Andrea Heckman has been my attorney helping/guiding/advocating for my children and I regarding my custody situation. We are in the process of working towards a more equal parenting schedule, and I have faith in her efforts and expertise to accomplish this.
I have used this office since 2018 and have nothing but excellent things to say. Andrea Heckman handled my divorce with no faults. Andrea is currently handling my child custody case and has been on top of everything! Andrea Heckman is an unstoppable force, and I would recommend her to anyone!
I could not ask for a better attorney to represent me during my case which is Andrea Heckman. Anytime I had any questions, I got a response in a timely manner. Andrea walked me through a very difficult time which was a divorce/child custody case. Andrea is very knowledgeable and motivating. The staff has been nothing but welcoming and professional. If I have to go to court for anything, I will definitely be giving this firm a call again.
Heckman Law is handling my divorce/custody. Andrea is very professional, knowledgeable, and responsive. She will take the time to answer and explain any questions you may have. She usually responds within a few hours. Honest about possible outcomes, whether it’s good or bad news. My ex doesn’t want to negotiate or cooperate with anything. Andrea is willing to fight in the courtroom for you. The case is ongoing.
I was represented by Andrea Heckman, and if it wasn’t for her, I would have been so lost. She guided me through my difficult situation. Some lawyers are about money. I knew that Andrea cared about me and my situation.
Ms. Heckman is a great lawyer. She helped me get time with my daughter when my ex was being nasty and refusing to let me see my baby. I thank her for all her hard work.
Ms. Heckman managed our parents’ will and advanced care planning documents expeditiously, skillfully, and with compassion during a stressful situation. We referred her to a family member for divorce with child custody issues, and she was pleased enough to refer her to 2 others for divorce services. A true professional.
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.