Obtaining a divorce in Illinois requires a clear understanding of the legal requirements and procedures that apply. This information helps you make informed decisions and ensure a smooth transition into the next chapter of your life.
Illinois Divorce Requirements
You or your spouse must have been a resident of Illinois for at least 90 days before filing a Petition for Dissolution of Marriage/Civil Union. You are not required to be separated for any period of time before filing, and there is no mandatory waiting period after the case begins before the court may enter an order finalizing the divorce.
It’s common practive to file your case in a county near where you or your spouse live, but you may file it in any Illinois county. Filing in a smaller county can reduce filing costs or help avoid the delays that plague areas with a heavy backlog of cases.