Divorce Lawyer Near Me
Divorce Lawyer Near Me
Maybe you’ve known for a long time that you would eventually be searching for divorce lawyers near you, or perhaps you were unexpectedly served divorce papers. Either way, the outcome of your divorces hinges on the quality of legal representation you receive. There are many critical issues that must be determined in the divorce process. If you don’t have aggressive and trustworthy representation, you may not receive what is rightfully yours or be able to reach a fair settlement. At the Goodman Law Firm, we can help you by standing up for and asserting your rights in your divorce proceedings.
Dividing Property in an Illinois Divorce
Since divorcing couples will no longer be living together or pursuing a lifestyle that involves the other spouse, their assets must be divided. In Illinois, the law provides for the equitable division of assets, which is different from the equal division of assets. One of the first steps that must be taken is to identify which property is marital and which is not.
After one spouse files for divorce, the applicable court issues a stay order that doesn’t allow either spouse to dispose of property in any way without first asking the court. This helps ensure equitable division and that no assets are hidden from the other spouse. It keeps everything the same so that the court will have an easier time dividing property. When you hire skilled divorce attorneys near you, they can help you sort out what property you have that is separate and what is marital.Â
Any property or asset that was bought during the marriage is considered under Illinois law as marital property. Therefore, it’s subject to equitable distribution in a divorce. Regardless of how a title is held to the property, marital property will always be split between the spouses. Examples of marital property include:
- Primary home and vacation homes
- Household furniture
- Bank, brokerage, and investment accounts
- Partnership and business interests
- Vehicles
- Pensions
- Retirement plans
- Stock and stock options
How Much Will a Divorce Cost?
Although it may be less expensive to begin with, handling your own legal divorce matters without the help of experienced divorce lawyers near you can be quite expensive and disastrous. You may end up paying a lawyer more to help fix some of your issues than if they would have been on your side to prevent them in the first place.Â
Every divorce is different, so it’s difficult to estimate a specific cost. It’s best to meet with knowledgeable divorce attorneys near you so that they can review the facts of your case. Keep in mind that you might also need to pay other professionals for their services along the way. This might include:
- Counselors
- Child psychologists
- Mediators
- Financial experts
The more complex and contentious a divorce is, the more it will cost. If you and your soon-to-be ex-spouse can work out some of your issues between yourself, it will help save time and money.
Reach Out to Divorce Attorneys Near You for Help Today
If you know you are facing the dissolution of your marriage, don’t hesitate to reach out to divorce lawyers near you. The sooner you have an experienced and trusted advocate on your side, the better your experience and outcome will be. Contact us today to learn more about the services we offer and to schedule your confidential consultation.
FAQs About Divorce in Illinois
What should I do if I have been served with divorce papers?
If you have received service of divorce papers, contact an experienced divorce attorney to review the documents, understand your rights, and plan your next steps. Time is critical in divorce proceedings, and having skilled legal counsel from the start can make all the difference.
How can I prepare for my initial consultation with a divorce attorney?
Bring documents such as financial records, prenuptial agreements, and a list of any questions you have. Be prepared to discuss your relevant goals and concerns openly and honestly. The more information you provide, the better we can assess your situation and develop a strategy that serves your best interests.
How are collaborative law, mediation, and negotiation different?
- Collaborative law is a structured process where both parties and their attorneys commit to resolving the divorce without going to court. It involves open communication and cooperation, with the goal of reaching a mutually beneficial agreement.
- In mediation, a neutral third-party mediator facilitates discussions to help divorcing parties reach a mutual agreement. Rather than making decisions, the mediator guides the negotiation process toward productive outcomes.
- Negotiation involves discussions between the parties directly or their attorneys to settle divorce terms. Unlike mediation, there is no neutral third party.
What should I expect during the divorce process?
The process typically involves filing for divorce, exchanging information, negotiating terms, and finalizing the agreement. If negotiations fail, courtroom litigation will become part of the process.
What happens if my spouse refuses to cooperate during the divorce?
If your spouse is uncooperative, the court may have to intervene to resolve disputes. At Goodman Law Firm, our attorney has experience in handling contentious cases and will advocate for your interests even in circumstances where spousal cooperation is limited.