Divorce is rarely a single moment, it’s a process. And for many people in Cook County, one of the biggest sources of stress is simply not knowing what comes next.Divorce is not a single event—it’s a process. One of the most common concerns in Cook County is simply not knowing what happens next. Understanding the general timeline can help reduce uncertainty and give you a clearer sense of control.
The Divorce Process in Illinois
Every case begins with filing a Petition for Dissolution of Marriage, which officially starts the case and assigns a judge. The other party must then be served and given time to respond.
From there, the case may involve temporary orders to address immediate issues like parenting time, support, or living arrangements.
Discovery and Negotiation
A significant portion of the timeline is spent on financial disclosure and discovery, where both parties exchange information about income, assets, and debts.
Once that information is available, the parties typically move into negotiation or mediation to resolve issues such as property division, parenting plans, and support. Many cases are resolved at this stage without going to trial.
Resolution: Prove-Up or Trial
If an agreement is reached, the case proceeds to a prove-up, a brief hearing (or affidavits) where the judge reviews and finalizes the agreement.
If no agreement is reached, the case moves to trial, where the judge makes the final decisions.
Final Judgment
The process ends with the Judgment for Dissution of Marriage, which officially finalizes the divorce and sets all terms moving forward.
How Long Does It Take?
- Uncontested cases: as little as 2–4 months
- Contested cases: typically 12–24 months or longer
The timeline depends on factors like conflict, financial complexity, and court scheduling.
Final Thought
Every divorce is different, but most follow a similar path. Understanding the process can help you prepare for what’s ahead and make more informed decisions along the way.
FAQs
1. How long does a divorce take in Illinois?
It depends on the case. Uncontested divorces may take 2–4 months, while contested cases can take 12–24 months or longer.
2. What starts the divorce process?
Filing a Petition for Dissolution of Marriage officially begins the case.
3. What is “discovery” in a divorce?
Discovery is the process where both parties exchange financial information, such as income, assets, and debts.
If you have questions about your divorce process or are unsure which approach may apply to your situation, it is important to understand your options early.
The Law Offices of Patrick Markey, P.C., are located at 180 Stetson Avenue, Suite 3500 in Chicago, Illinois. You may call us at 312-223-1764 to discuss your situation.
I help clients minimize the destruction of divorce whether it be through the collaborative law model, the court process or mediation. My focus is on complex family law cases and representing professionals and their spouses who value a proactive solution orientated approach to their divorce. Our policy is to provide prompt responses and regular status updates to clients. Keeping the client informed about their cases is the highest priority. We as a firm are accessible when needed. Clients want a speedy resolution to their divorce or family law matter without sacrificing the best possible outcome. I am a strong advocate of the Collaborative Law and mediation dispute resolution methods for their ability to custom-craft solutions, minimize conflict and usually reduce the time of a case. Not only are we experts on family law, but we understand the impact of divorce on children and we help client’s develop co-parenting relationships. Clients deserve to be treated with kindness and empathy during this difficult time. We as a firm represent clients in a professional, ethical manner. The firm uses the latest technology to save time and make the client’s experience easier.
Recognition:
*Selected as an Illinois Super Lawyer by Super Lawyers Magazine for 2024. This distinction is limited to the top 5% of lawyers in each practice area. In 2015, selected as a “Rising Star” which is only granted to 2.5% of lawyers. Super Lawyers has a patented multi-phase process that includes independent research, peer nominations and peer evaluations.
* Chicago Bar Association Milton H. Grey Award for Outstanding Project Leadership (2012).
Involvement
*Collaborative Law Institute of Illinois (CLII) Executive Board Member
*Center for Conflict Resolution (CCR) Volunteer Mediator
*Chicago Bar Association Judicial Evaluation Committee