Naperville Divorce Attorney
Understanding the Basics of an Illinois Divorce
Even when you think your divorce may be amicable, many times the process brings to light hidden financial and emotional difficulties. Those problems tend to multiply and grow, especially if you were already on rocky ground. Whether you are the spouse that is filing for divorce, or you unexpectedly received divorce papers instead, a Naperville divorce attorney can help ensure that your rights are protected.
Illinois Divorce Basics
Grounds for Divorce – In the State of Illinois, there are only no-fault divorces, so divorces are based on the concept of irreconcilable differences. The laws used to require spouses to live separately for a minimum of two years, but this is no longer required. Once the spouses agree that divorce is needed, proceedings will begin as soon as documentation is filed. Previous grounds for divorce such as adultery, bigamy, or abandonment may still impact the marriage and divorce proceedings but are no longer the grounds for divorce.
- Residency Requirements – In order to file for a divorce in the State of Illinois, you or your spouse are required to have lived in the state for at least 90 days prior to filing for divorce.
- Asset Division – Illinois is an equitable distribution state when it comes to marital assets. Unlike community property states that divide property down the middle, Illinois distributes assets in a manner they deem fair, which is not always equal.
- Petition of Dissolution – Whether it is you or your spouse, one of you will begin the divorce process by filing the Petition of Dissolution. If you both agree on all the terms of your divorce, your divorce will be uncontested. If there are areas that you disagree, your divorce will be contested, but this does not necessarily mean that you will not be able to reach an agreement outside of court.
- Discovery and Negotiation – During discovery, both of you will be required to provide your financial information and information regarding your assets. A hearing may be set and the attorneys for both parties will begin negotiations toward a settlement. If you are not able to reach an agreement, eventually your case will go to trial and a judge will determine the settlement.
Legal Separation
Many people are not certain if divorce is right for them just yet. If that is the case for you, legal separation may be an option for you. This type of agreement allows the court to determine spousal maintenance, child support, and child custody. The spouses are allowed to live separately, but without dissolving their marriage.
Contact an Experienced Naperville Divorce Attorney Today
If you are considering divorce or legal separation, the Naperville divorce attorneys at Law Office of Demetrios N Dalmares and Associates Ltd. can help you determine what your legal options are and help you ensure that your rights are protected no matter which option you choose. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.
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Client Reviews
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
Best experience ever
With Demetrios, you don't have to worry about anything. He knows what he's doing. I have two lawyers before him. It was a long case and messed up for 2 years. Since Demetrios took my case, he finished it in a couple of months. He is very organized and smart, and he will take you through that very smooth process. Thank you so much Demetrios, I owe you a lot.
Demetrios Dalmares is a very good attorney. He did a great job in assisting me through my divorce. This is the attorney who will get the job done!
Divorce
Demetrios has helped me through a very difficult time in my life. He is not intimidated by increased levels of challenges. He has been able to adapt to my unique circumstances and get over every hurdle with confidence. He's intelligent, kind and a good listener. I wholeheartedly recommend Demetrios and his excellent staff to all my family and friends. I assure you that his commitment to helping others is reassuring, and I hope it sets your mind at ease.
Child support termination
Mr. Dalmares was great to work with. He walked me through the process and kept me updated on any updates that had occurred. Highly recommended!
Thank you, Demetrios, for your tenacity, attentiveness and patience in working with me in finalizing my divorce. God Bless
5-star team, very helpful, very friendly, punctual. Hired for a paternity case and was very pleased with the outcome. Demetrios is great; I highly recommend!
Recommend
I recommend Demetrios Dalmares with the highest praise as a divorce attorney. My divorce was settled quickly and without any unnecessary drama. I was updated regularly regarding the progress of my case. He was extremely knowledgeable, diligent and persistent. Demetrios Dalmares was clearly working in my best interest and the best interest of my three children. He is definitely the attorney you want on your side when going through a divorce. I cannot thank or recommend him enough!
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.