Family Law Articles
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Illinois Divorce Timeline: Step-by-Step Process
How Does the Illinois Divorce Process Work? An Illinois divorce begins with filing a petition, moves through notice to the other spouse and resolution of property, support, and parenting issues, and ends when the court enters the judgment of dissolution. If both spouses agree on every issue, the case proceeds to a final uncontested hearing.…
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Retroactive Child Support in Illinois: What to Know
Can Illinois Courts Order Child Support for an Earlier Period? Illinois courts have the authority to award child support for a period before the current order was entered. How far back support reaches depends on whether the issue involves establishing initial support in a parentage case, collecting unpaid amounts under an existing order, or modifying…
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Which State Decides Custody? How the UCCJEA Works in Illinois
Which state decides child custody under the UCCJEA? In most cases, the child’s home state decides: the state where the child lived with a parent for at least six consecutive months right before the case was filed. Illinois applies this rule through its version of the UCCJEA. In most cases, the child’s home state decides:…
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Social Security Benefits After Divorce in Illinois
Can You Receive Social Security Based on an Ex-Spouse’s Record? A divorced person who meets federal eligibility requirements, including a marriage that lasted at least 10 years, may qualify for Social Security on a former spouse’s work record. Illinois divorce courts do not divide Social Security as marital property, and claiming on an ex-spouse’s record…
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How to Prepare Financially Before Filing for Divorce in Illinois
What Should You Do Financially Before Filing for Divorce in Illinois? Start by documenting your income, expenses, assets, debts, accounts, and insurance before making significant financial changes. Gather records you have lawful access to, build a realistic monthly budget, and identify questions about property or support that need legal or financial advice. Avoid draining accounts,…