4 Ways to Speed Up the Divorce Process in Illinois

 Posted on June 28, 2024 in Divorce

Getting divorced can be an emotionally and financially draining process. The more it drags out, the more difficult and expensive it can get. Unfortunately, many couples find themselves embroiled in hostile, drawn-out divorce proceedings. Sometimes, this is for valid reasons, like if complex assets need to be divided. Other times, however, the extra time can be avoided.

One way couples can shorten the divorce process is by hiring a competent Illinois divorce attorney. A lawyer with experience can help prevent some of the pitfalls that lengthen the divorce proceedings.

Here are four ways to speed up the divorce process.

Joint Simplified Dissolution of Marriage

In some cases, a couple can file for a joint simplified dissolution of marriage. This is a quick and simplified divorce procedure that applies only when the spouses meet certain criteria, such as:

• They must have been married no more than eight years.
• They must not have any children, biological or adopted.
• They must not own any real estate.
• The wife cannot be pregnant.
• Each spouse must have a gross income of less than $30,000.

If a couple meets all these requirements and others, they can qualify for a simplified divorce. In this kind of divorce, there are fewer forms and court appearances, and the process can take anywhere from a week to a month.

Be Open to Compromise

A lot of what drags out the divorce process is disagreement between the spouses. They might argue about property division, spousal support (alimony), parenting time, or other issues. Being open to compromise, however, can significantly shrink the length of the divorce. Although it is difficult, the more you are willing to settle, the faster you are likely to be done with the process.

Be Prepared

Another way to shorten the divorce is to ensure you are as prepared as possible. The proceedings can drag on when you do not know what to expect, and you are blindsided by developments. Get started by collecting all the documents you might need — particularly financial — and give them to your attorney. Your lawyer can also guide you on what documents you need and what forms to fill out. If you have a civil relationship with your soon-to-be ex, it will help you to work together on things like creating a parenting plan, which details how you will co-parent your child after the divorce.

Contact a Kane County, IL Divorce Lawyer

Perhaps the best way to quicken the divorce process is to hire the right St. Charles, IL divorce attorney. At Goostree Law Group, our experienced lawyers will guide you through each step of the divorce and prepare you for what you will need. Our attention to detail and commitment to clients also mean we avoid making the legal mistakes that tend to draw out divorces. Call 630-584-4800 for a free consultation today.