How Should I Prepare for My Illinois Divorce?

 Posted on October 12, 2020 in Divorce

Filing for divorce is a momentous decision. Before you begin the process, it is a good idea to ensure that you are prepared in every way possible. The last thing you want is to be knee-deep in divorce proceedings and realize you are unprepared to navigate a critical question. 

Preparing For Divorce Financially

The first thing any professional will recommend is to begin saving money. It is not only attorneys that cost money—you will likely encounter many different bills, and without your spouse’s income, it may be harder to pay them. It is imperative, however, that you do not attempt to hide your assets, at least not money such as your paycheck that can be considered marital property. Illinois is an equitable distribution state, meaning that marital property is distributed to the spouses in the most equitable manner possible upon a divorce. Concealing money that is earmarked as marital property, as spouses’ paychecks usually are, can lead to accusations of hiding assets.  

It is also a good idea to consult a financial professional sooner rather than later, bringing any financial documents you have so that you can develop a realistic picture of your finances at the outset of a divorce. A professional will be able to give specialized, individualized advice as to whether you should take the step of closing joint accounts or opening a private account, or what to do with certain assets like stocks and retirement accounts. These instruments are so individual, and each situation so unique, that often, only a professional can assess your potential financial issues with any degree of accuracy.

Preparing For Divorce Emotionally

The other part of preparing to file for divorce is making certain you are ready emotionally and mentally. It can be extremely difficult to follow through on your plans, especially if there is a possibility that the proceedings may turn nasty. 

Information is key, regardless of the tenor of the proceedings. Collect as much information as possible regarding your children: school information, medical records, and anything else you can find. Doing so can help put you in a solid position in a dispute over parental responsibilities. Illinois courts allocate such responsibilities according to the best interests of the child, and if you are able to show a greater familiarity with your children’s lives and interests, it may give you a better chance at an outcome that is favorable to you. Even if you have no children, it is still in your best interest to be well-informed about the assets you and your soon-to-be-ex-spouse have between you. It can be surprisingly traumatic to lose specific assets, especially if they have figured in your life prominently, like a painting, appliance, or even a pet. 

Contact a DuPage County Family Lawyer

Divorce can be very intimidating for most people. It is always a good idea to engage a competent legal professional to guide you through the process and set your mind at ease. The experienced Naperville divorce attorneys at Calabrese Associates, P.C. have the skills and resources to help you complete the proceedings quickly and efficiently. Call us today at 630-393-3111 to make an appointment.

Sources:

http://www.ilga.gov/legislation/ilcs/documents/075000050k503.htm

http://www.ilga.gov/legislation/ilcs/ilcs4.asp?DocName=075000050HPt%2E+VI&ActID=2086&ChapterID=59&SeqStart=8350000&SeqEnd=10200000