Where to Start?
Making the decision to pursue a divorce is often one of the most difficult and emotional choices a person can face. Whether you’ve already had that conversation or are still quietly exploring your options, one of the most common questions I hear is:
“Where do I start?”
While every divorce is unique, the path forward becomes clearer when you understand the key steps ahead. Below is a straightforward guide to help you navigate the beginning of the process with clarity and confidence.
Step 1: Speak with an Attorney Early
Even if you’re not ready to file, consulting with a qualified divorce attorney early in the process can help you:
Understand your rights and obligations under Illinois law
Develop a strategic approach tailored to your circumstances
Avoid early missteps that may have long-term consequences
This is not a commitment to proceed — it’s an opportunity to get informed and protect your interests from the outset.
Step 2: Get Organized
Once divorce is on the horizon, financial organization is critical. Begin gathering:
Recent tax returns
Pay stubs and employment records
Bank and credit card statements
Retirement account and investment statements
Mortgage or lease documents
Any business ownership or valuation records (if applicable)
Having this information on hand will streamline the process and allow your legal team to provide accurate, tailored advice.
Step 3: Identify the Core Issues
Most divorce cases involve resolution of four primary areas:
Parenting time and parental decision-making
Division of assets and debts
Spousal support (also known as maintenance or alimony)
Child support
You don’t need to have all the answers — but begin thinking about your goals, priorities, and non-negotiables. These will serve as the foundation for the discussions to come.
Step 4: Understand the Illinois Divorce Process
While no two cases are the same, most divorces in Illinois follow a similar structure:
Filing: One spouse (the petitioner) files a petition for dissolution of marriage.
Service: The other spouse is formally served with legal notice of the case.
Financial Disclosure: Both parties exchange financial documentation in a process called “discovery.”
Negotiation or Litigation: Agreements may be reached through settlement or alternative dispute resolution methods (e.g., mediation), or issues may proceed to litigation.
Finalization: A judge enters a final judgment once all matters are resolved.
The process may take a few months or over a year, depending on the complexity of the issues and the willingness of both parties to cooperate.
Step 5: Take Care of Yourself
Divorce is not only a legal process — it is a deeply personal transition. Surrounding yourself with the right support can make a critical difference. That might include:
A therapist or mental health professional
A financial planner or advisor
Trusted family and friends
An experienced legal team that communicates clearly and supports your goals
This is the moment to prioritize your peace of mind — and build the right team to guide you through.
You Don’t Have to Do This Alone
If you’re considering divorce or wondering what your options are, I invite you to start by getting the facts — not assumptions. At Beermann LLP, I’ve helped countless individuals and families across Chicago and its surrounding suburbs navigate this process with clarity and confidence.
Whether you’re ready to take the first legal step or simply need to understand what lies ahead, I’m here to help.
Clear answers. No noise. Just the law — made simple.
