New Lenox Divorce Lawyers
When you know your marriage is over and there is no chance of reconciling with your spouse, take the time to educate yourself about the divorce process. Getting divorced is a big step, but sometimes, it is the right step for you and every other member of your family. Learning about what the divorce process entails can make it seem less intimidating and give you insight to aspects of the process that you had not considered.
Below are a few basic guidelines about getting divorced in Illinois. These are not a substitute for a thorough consultation with an experienced divorce lawyer. When you speak with a lawyer, you can go more in depth about different parts of the divorce process and discuss them within the context of your situation.
Parts of a Divorce Settlement
The document that outlines the terms of a couple’s divorce is known as their divorce settlement. This legal order contains the couple’s property distribution order. In any divorce, regardless of the number of assets the couple owns or the assets’ value, the couple’s marital assets and debts must be divided. They are divided according to the doctrine of equitable distribution, which means the court considers a set of factors like the length of the couple’s marriage, each partner’s income, and each partner’s noneconomic contributions to the marriage to determine a fair breakdown.
If the couple has minor children, their divorce settlement can also contain a child support order and a parenting plan. Child support orders are developed using a formula that incorporates each parent’s income and the amount of time they spend with the child according to their parenting plan. The parenting plan provides a timesharing schedule and a breakdown of each parent’s parental responsibilities.
When one partner sacrificed their career progress in some way to benefit the couple’s home and children, that partner may seek spousal maintenance. Spousal maintenance is money one partner pays to the other after their divorce to lessen his or her financial hardship. Often, it is paid for a specific period of time to provide a financial cushion while the lesser earning spouse prepares to reenter the workforce. With longer marriages and individuals who cannot realistically become self-sufficient, it may be paid permanently.
Requirements for Getting Divorced in Illinois
Illinois imposes a few requirements on individuals seeking divorce. These include:
- A 90-day residency requirement to file for divorce;
- The spouses must have lived apart for at least six months in order to finalize a divorce;
- All divorces are no-fault divorces, which means a couple cannot cite a reason for their divorce; and
- If the couple meets certain requirements, they can complete a Simplified Dissolution of Marriage, a more streamlined divorce process.
Work with an Experienced New Lenox Divorce Lawyer
Your marriage might not last forever. If your marriage is over, speak with an experienced divorce lawyers about the divorce process and what you can expect from it. Contact our team at Law Office of Demetrios N Dalmares and Associates Ltd. today to schedule your free legal consultation in our office.
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Client Reviews
Chester G.
This place is 1000% recommendable! So far the process has been super smooth and easy to deal with. They placed all my worries out the window and I've slept better knowing they are on my team. Currently in tears knowing I'll be able to resolve this but sad that it's never going to be the family I thought I could have had. It's ok though, it's time to move forward. Thanks DnD.
Jean C.
Demetrios saw my case to the end. Great outcome! Justice prevailed!
Kay L
I would absolutely recommend Demetrios to anyone! He is all for his clients and most importantly honest. He helped me deal with a very difficult situation and got me what I deserved. I already have referred a few people to him and each one so far is very satisfied and happy with their results.
Kim K-I
Demetrios is honestly the best attorney to help through any divorce situation or custody battle. He will go above and beyond to make sure to guide you through it all. I have referred many people to him, and every person has been more than impressed. I even referred someone that needed immediate attention after hours, and he contacted her right away! I can promise you one thing he knows his stuff, and you won’t be disappointed!
Jenna
Demetri is extremely knowledgeable and confident In what he does. He is everything I searched for in a lawyer, I thank him for his determination and courage. I don’t see many lawyers leveling up with him in court, wouldn’t have wanted anyone else by my side during such a tough time.
Edmond
Demetrios is at the top of his profession. The combination of his knowledge and experience along with his experienced and dedicated staff guided me through my legal needs in a timely and compassionate manner. Certainly a monumental task during a pandemic. Thank you, Demetrios.
Murad
Super professional legal services law office. Highly strong communication skills and clients representation. Point-oriented legal path and service. More specifically, I had a very good experience upon hiring and dealing with Attorney Demetrios Dalmares as he understood all I wanted and walked me through all details required to achieve the desired goals with minimal losses. Good job Demetrios! Highly recommended. Good luck and will definitely refer if asked. Thank you
Thank you
Demetrios, I cannot thank you enough for you diligence, patience, knowledge, concern and determination to represent my best interest. From the bottom of my heart, you are amazing and thank you for all you have done for me. Robin
Success Stories
Wife Seeks Unreasonable Share of Business Assets During Divorce
In a case where Law Office of Demetrios N Dalmares and Associates Ltd. represented Husband: Couple shared ownership in a business, resulting in complex property division issues. After investigation of the couple’s financial history, our client received a much more equitable divorce agreement than what was originally offered.
Mother Requests Limited Parental Rights for Father with Violent Past
In a case where Law Office of Demetrios N Dalmares and Associates Ltd. represented Mother: Father became aggressive and violent toward Mother during their separation, prompting her to seek full custody of their children. At trial, the court granted Father supervised parenting time only and Mother was awarded child support.
Bitter Divorce Drawn Out by Poor Representation Until Law Office of Demetrios N Dalmares and Associates Ltd. Gets Involved
In a case where Law Office of Demetrios N Dalmares and Associates Ltd. represented Husband: Couple had been locked in a contentious divorce for nearly three years and changed lawyers several times. Law Office of Demetrios N Dalmares and Associates Ltd. provided the experience and organization needed to resolve the case within months, avoiding a trial for our client.
Husband Tries to Avoid Spousal Support Based on Outdated Earning Potential
In a case where Law Office of Demetrios N Dalmares and Associates Ltd. represented Wife: Wife left a successful career to raise children. When Husband denied spousal support based on Wife’s previous earnings, Law Office of Demetrios N Dalmares and Associates Ltd. countered with evidence that retraining was needed, and our client was awarded spousal support.
Husband Insists on Taking Divorce to Trial
In a case where Law Office of Demetrios N Dalmares and Associates Ltd. represented Wife: Husband tried to intimidate Wife into a divorce settlement that heavily favored his interests by drawing out the case. Law Office of Demetrios N Dalmares and Associates Ltd. represented Wife through trial, where she received an equitable share of marital assets.
Father Granted Child Support Adjustment Due to Mother’s Cohabitation
In a case where Law Office of Demetrios N Dalmares and Associates Ltd. represented Father: Mother began cohabitating with a new partner who made significantly more than our client. Law Office of Demetrios N Dalmares and Associates Ltd. successfully demonstrated that the new relationship justified a modification and obtained a favorable outcome through negotiation.