Even when the desire for a divorce is mutual, divorce is a stressful and difficult process. Even the most amicable of divorces involve difficult decisions about how a life together will be divided. And when children are involved the situation becomes even more complicated. No matter what the details of your situation are, it is important that you obtain the help of an experienced Chicago divorce lawyer.
Common Issues in Divorce
While every situation is different and thus every divorce is different, there are some general issues that come up in many cases. These include:
- Child custody;
- Child support and visitation rights;
- Distribution of property; and
- Spousal support/alimony.
Even in non-contested divorces, it is important that these issues be hammered out properly or there could be complications down the line.
How Divorce Works
A divorce begins when one spouse (called the petitioner) files what is called a petition with the clerk of court requesting that the marriage be dissolved. This is similar to the type of petition that is filed in any kind of lawsuit. In family law cases some issues may have already been temporarily addressed if, for example, a court has entered an order of protection. Once the petition is filed, the clerk will send the other spouse (called the respondent) paperwork about the proceedings. This is when (within a limited time frame) in a contested divorce the respondent can reply and dispute the cause of the divorce or any of the information in the petition. If the respondent does not reply at all, the judge can treat the divorce as an uncontested divorce.
Call Gordon & Perlut, LLC
Divorce is difficult. In order to make it through this difficult time, you will need the help of an experienced family law litigator. You should call the Chicago divorce lawyers at Gordon & Perlut, LLC. Our Chicago office number is (312)360-0250. Phone consultations are free.
