Kane County, IL Divorce Attorneys

Respected Attorneys Assisting With Uncontested and Contested Divorce in Kane County, Illinois

The decision to end your marriage is not one you have made lightly. Whether your relationship has gradually unraveled over time or been marked by sudden conflict, you may have found that divorce is the best path forward. As you take steps to legally dissolve your marriage through divorce, it is essential to understand your legal rights and the options available to you. At The Law Office of Matthew M. Williams, P.C., we work closely with clients in Kane County to help address divorce-related issues. We can provide the legal help you need during your case.

Personalized Legal Support During a Life-Altering Transition

As family law attorneys with over two decades of experience, we know that no two families are alike. Divorce can affect every aspect of your life, from financial stability to your relationship with your children. You will need to develop a strategy that addresses your specific goals and concerns. Our attorneys will take the time to understand your priorities, whether that means protecting your financial future, securing time with your children, or ensuring that sensitive personal matters will be handled correctly during your case.

Core Legal Issues to Address in Your Divorce

Your divorce will do more than dissolve your marriage. It will lay the groundwork for how you and your spouse will move forward independently. You will need to resolve several key legal issues, including:

Property and Asset Division

Illinois follows the principle of equitable distribution when dividing assets during a divorce. This does not mean that property will always be split evenly. Instead, assets and debts will be divided in a manner that the court deems to be fair. Marital assets may include real estate, savings accounts, vehicles, personal property, or anything else you purchased or acquired during your marriage. If you own high-value assets, such as a business, investment portfolios, or retirement plans, you may need to address complex financial issues as you make decisions about how property will be divided.

Spousal Maintenance

Also known as alimony, spousal maintenance may be awarded if there is a disparity between the income you earn and the income your spouse earns. Maintenance is not awarded in every case, and it will usually only be appropriate if a spouse will struggle to maintain their standard of living. Support will usually be paid for a fixed amount of time.

Parental Responsibilities and Parenting Time

Divorcing parents must create a parenting plan that outlines decision-making authority and parenting time schedules. When addressing issues related to child custody, courts aim to preserve the child's best interests by promoting stability, emotional well-being, and strong relationships with both parents. Disputes over parenting can be especially complex, and the guidance of an experienced attorney is essential.

Child Support

Illinois calculates child support in family law cases by considering both parents' earnings and dividing financial obligations appropriately. Additional expenses such as health insurance, daycare, and extracurricular activities may also be included.

Mental Health, Substance Abuse, and Safety Concerns

When a divorce involves a spouse with mental health issues or substance abuse problems, additional measures may be needed to protect the welfare of children or other family members. Courts may require psychological evaluations, and child custody orders may include arrangements for supervised visitation or requirements for parents to participate in treatment plans. Our attorneys will advocate for safeguards that will protect your family's best interests.

Methods for Resolving Divorce Disputes

The approach you choose during your divorce can have an impact on the outcome of your case, as well as the costs involved and the relationships between different family members. Our lawyers will explain your options, which may include:

Uncontested Divorce

When both spouses are in agreement on all major issues, an uncontested divorce can be filed. Once you have created a divorce settlement, you can file it in court, and your case will be finalized when the settlement is approved by a judge. This method is typically faster and more cost-effective than a divorce trial, and it will give you more control over the terms of your settlement.

Collaborative Law

A collaborative divorce involves a commitment from both spouses and their attorneys to reach a settlement without going to court. Through a series of structured meetings, you and your spouse will negotiate mutually acceptable terms. You can also receive assistance from financial professionals or child specialists if needed.

Mediation

During the mediation process, spouses can work together with a neutral third-party mediator who will help hold productive discussions and work toward a cooperative resolution. While attorneys usually are not present during mediation sessions, our lawyers can review your final agreement to make sure it meets all legal requirements before it is submitted to the court.

Litigated Divorce

In a contested divorce, any outstanding issues will need to be resolved in court. Litigation can be time-consuming and emotionally taxing, but it may be necessary in high-conflict situations or when one party refuses to cooperate.

Handling Divorce Cases at the Kane County Courthouse

As Kane County divorce attorneys, we have extensive knowledge of local court procedures, and we can make sure your case will be handled correctly. If you need more information on court costs or other requirements during your case, you can contact the Kane County Judicial Center, located at 37W777 Route 38, St. Charles, Illinois 60175. The civil division, which deals with divorce, can be reached at 630-232-5805.

Contact Our Kane County, IL Divorce Attorneys

You may feel overwhelmed as you prepare for your divorce, but with trusted legal counsel, you can take steps to reclaim control over your future. At The Law Office of Matthew M. Williams, P.C., we will make sure you can approach your divorce correctly, and we will help you protect your rights and interests during your case. Contact our Kane County divorce lawyers today at 630-409-8184 to arrange your free, confidential consultation.