Divorce 101: A Step-by-Step Guide to Filing for Divorce
It’s never easy to decide on a divorce. Emotions run high all while you’re trying to handle the legal aspects of ending your marriage.
The legal steps you must take can be complicated, which is why you’ll get through this difficult time more easily if you hire a divorce lawyer. Take a look at the steps below for how to file for divorce and learn more about this process.
Step 1: Organise Your Information
To complete the proper divorce documents without errors, you should organize your information. This will make it easy to find all the important details needed to fill out the forms.
Some of this will be basic information that you probably know offhand, such as the date you were married or your address. However, you will also need to compile a list of all property that you and your spouse own, either together or separately. This may include your home, bank accounts, and pensions. It must also include your debts incurred throughout your marriage.
Step 2: Fill Out the Proper Documents
Next, you need to fill out several documents before you can file for your divorce. There is the domestic relations cover sheet, the petition for the dissolution of marriage, the summons, a certificate of truthfulness, and the certificate of dissolution.
The petition for the dissolution of marriage may be one of the most important documents. It’s important to get every detail right and not miss any fields, or it could cause trouble when filing for divorce. This is why most people should work with a divorce attorney to ensure these documents are complete.
Step 3: File the Documents
Once you have completed your divorce documents, you will need to file them with the Clerk of Circuit Court of Cook County. You will also need to pay the filing fee when you file the documents.
Step 4: The Summons Is Served
In Chicago, a divorce summons can be served in a variety of ways. It can be through voluntary acceptance, sheriff’s service, a special process server, service by publication, or service by special court order. Your divorce attorney will know which is the best method for having this summons served to start your divorce.
Why You Need a Divorce Lawyer in Chicago
Even if you are both ending your marriage on good terms, getting divorced is a difficult process. When the situation is hostile, it makes this process even more stressful.
Because there are so many forms to complete and details to work through, such as custody agreements and division of property, it is best to work with a divorce attorney. They will help you file the forms and be there for you while you go through this transition. You should contact a Chicago divorce law firm to make sure you have proper legal representation through this matter.
