Practice Areas
Common Family Law Matters in Illinois
Illinois family law operates under the Illinois Marriage and Dissolution of Marriage Act, with cases handled through the state's circuit court system. The state recognizes both no-fault and fault-based grounds for divorce, with Cook County processing thousands of family law cases annually. Illinois courts prioritize the best interests of children in custody matters and follow equitable distribution principles for marital property. The state's family law landscape includes specialized domestic relations divisions in larger counties like Cook, DuPage, and Lake.
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Divorce and legal separation
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Child custody and visitation
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Child and spousal support
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Family Law Attorneys by City in Illinois
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Why It Matters
Why Hire a Family Law Attorney in Illinois?
Illinois family law requires attorneys licensed by the Illinois State Bar and familiar with state-specific statutes and local court procedures. Only Illinois-licensed attorneys can represent clients in the state's circuit courts and understand the nuances of Illinois family code. Local attorneys know county-specific rules, judge preferences, and filing procedures that can significantly impact case outcomes.
Local Courts
Family law cases in Illinois are handled by the Circuit Courts in each of the state's 24 judicial circuits, with Cook County's Domestic Relations Division being the largest. Specialized family law judges oversee divorce, custody, adoption, and domestic violence matters throughout the state's circuit court system.
Illinois Law
Illinois Family Law Laws & Deadlines
Illinois follows a no-fault divorce system with irreconcilable differences as the primary ground, requiring only a 6-month separation period if both parties agree. The state uses equitable distribution for property division and considers multiple factors for spousal maintenance calculations. Child custody decisions are governed by Illinois' comprehensive best interests standard outlined in 750 ILCS 5/602.7.
Key Facts
What to Know About Family Law in Illinois
Cost to You
Free to submit your case
When to Act
As soon as possible to protect your rights
Attorney Cost
Hourly rates, retainers, or flat fees vary by attorney.
Our Network
Family Law attorneys as they join
Common Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the residency requirements for filing divorce in Illinois?
Either spouse must be an Illinois resident for at least 90 days before filing for divorce. The divorce must be filed in the county where either spouse resides, with Cook County being the most common filing location.
How does Illinois calculate child support payments?
Illinois uses an income shares model under 750 ILCS 5/505 that considers both parents' net incomes and the number of children. The state provides specific guidelines and calculators, with courts having discretion to deviate based on special circumstances.
How do I find a qualified family law attorney in Illinois?
Look for attorneys licensed by the Illinois State Bar with specific family law experience in your county's circuit court. Many attorneys offer free consultations and you can verify their credentials through the Illinois Attorney Registration and Disciplinary Commission database.
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