Going through a divorce is never easy. Whether your situation is simple or complex, the right legal support can make a huge difference. At Crosby & Crosby Attorneys at Law, our experienced DeKalb County divorce lawyers are here to guide you through the process with care, clarity, and confidence.
We understand how overwhelming the DeKalb County divorce process can feel, especially when your family, finances, or even your business are on the line. That’s why we take the time to listen, create a strategy that fits your goals, and walk beside you every step of the way.
Filing for Divorce in DeKalb County, IL
If you’re considering filing for divorce in DeKalb County, it’s important to understand the basics. In Illinois, divorce is legally known as “dissolution of marriage.” The process starts when one spouse (the petitioner) files a petition for divorce in the DeKalb County courthouse. To file, at least one spouse must have lived in Illinois for 90 days or more.
After filing the paperwork, we’ll need to work out a few key issues:
- Division of property and debts
- Child custody and visitation (also called allocation of parenting time and responsibilities)
- Child support
- Spousal support (also known as maintenance or alimony)
Even if you and your spouse agree on most things, the paperwork and legal requirements can get tricky. That’s where our divorce attorneys in DeKalb County come in. We help make sure nothing is overlooked and that you’re protected, now and in the future.
The Divorce Process Doesn’t Have to Overwhelm You
Divorces can feel overwhelming, filled with emotion, uncertainty, and fear of the unknown. The legal process may seem complicated, but with the right guidance, the stress and confusion can be minimized. Here’s how Crosby & Crosby can make the DeKalb County divorce process easier:
- We explain everything in plain English—no confusing legal speak.
- We answer your questions, even the ones you’re afraid to ask.
- We take care of the paperwork, deadlines, and court filings.
- We advocate for you in negotiations and, if needed, in court.
Divorce is a major life change, but you don’t have to go through it alone. Please don’t hesitate to reach out for assistance so we can put your mind at ease and help guide you through this difficult time.
Understanding Irreconcilable Differences in Illinois
When filing for divorce in Illinois, the only reason you need to cite is “irreconcilable differences.” This means you don’t need to prove adultery, abuse, or any other specific cause to get a divorce. Simply wanting a divorce is the only reason you need. Our experienced divorce attorneys are here to guide you through this process, making it easier for you to focus on moving forward.
How to Speed Up a Divorce in Illinois
Divorce can be an emotionally taxing and time-consuming process, but there are several strategies that can help you move through it more quickly. While every case is different, certain approaches can significantly reduce the amount of time it takes to finalize your divorce. Here are some of the most effective ways to expedite the process:
- Agreement Between Parties:
The quickest way to speed up a divorce is for both spouses to be open to compromise and agree on all major issues, such as property division, custody, and support. When there is mutual agreement, the court’s role becomes largely administrative, making the process much faster.
- Simplified Divorce:
Illinois allows for a simplified divorce (sometimes called a “joint simplified dissolution”) if specific criteria are met. These criteria include:
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- The marriage has been relatively short.
- There are no children involved, either biological or adopted.
- The wife is not currently pregnant.
- The couple owns no real estate or significant investments.
- There are minimal or no retirement assets accumulated during the marriage.
- Both spouses have relatively low or similar gross incomes.
When these conditions apply, the divorce process can be much more straightforward and quicker to complete.
- Uncontested Divorce:
An uncontested divorce, where your spouse does not oppose the divorce or any of its terms, is another efficient path. Without drawn-out disputes over finances, custody, or property, you can avoid lengthy court proceedings and reach a final settlement faster.
Choosing the right strategy depends heavily on your individual circumstances. Our experienced divorce attorneys at Crosby & Crosby can evaluate your situation and help determine the most efficient path forward, ensuring the divorce process is handled as smoothly and quickly as possible.
How Crosby & Crosby Can Help You Secure a Divorce
Having the right legal team can make all the difference in divorce proceedings. At Crosby & Crosby, we are committed to guiding you through every stage of the process, whether your divorce is amicable or contested. Here’s how we can help:
- Legal Guidance: We help you understand your rights and options every step of the way.
- Child Support and Parenting Time (Child Custody): We prioritize your children’s best interests while helping you navigate the complexities of child support and custody arrangements.
- Asset and Debt Division: Our team ensures that all marital property and debts are divided fairly.
- Spousal Support: We advocate for fair spousal maintenance based on your unique situation.
- Paperwork and Court Representation: We take care of the legal paperwork and represent you in court when necessary.
No matter how complex or straightforward your divorce may be, Crosby & Crosby is prepared to protect your interests and work toward a resolution that positions you for the future.
Talk to a DeKalb County Divorce Attorney Today
If you’re ready to take the next step or just want to understand your options, it’s time to talk to a trusted divorce attorney in DeKalb County.
At Crosby & Crosby Attorneys at Law, we’re here to help you move forward with strength and support. We proudly serve clients throughout DeKalb County with all matters of family law. We urge you to schedule an initial consultation and together let’s figure out the next steps.
Call us today at 815-367-6432 or contact us online to schedule your consultation. Whether you’re protecting your family, your business, or both, Crosby & Crosby is here to stand by your side.
