Getting a divorce in Chicago, Illinois, can be challenging on several fronts. The Illinois divorce process can be very adversarial. When a couple fights about issues related to their divorce, it can create stress and tension. It can also increase the cost of the divorce and the time it takes to complete it.
A collaborative divorce can reduce the cost and time it takes to complete a divorce. Even though the parties begin at odds over one or more issues, the collaborative divorce process allows the parties to resolve their dispute without court intervention.
At KHK Family Law & Divorce Attorneys, our attorneys have over 70 years of combined experience in family law. We are seasoned trial lawyers and skilled negotiators, and we have extensive experience handling all types of divorce cases, including collaborative divorces.
Contact one of our Chicago collaborative divorce attorneys for a confidential consultation today at (312) 702-0068.
How KHK Family Law & Divorce Attorneys Can Help You With a Collaborative Divorce in Chicago, IL
A significant factor in a collaborative divorce is the ability to negotiate a settlement with the help of your attorney. Therefore, you need an attorney with experience handling these kinds of divorces.
At KHK Family Law & Divorce Attorneys, our Chicago divorce lawyers will handle all aspects of your case.
When you hire us, you can trust that we will:
- Explain your legal rights and how Illinois divorce laws apply in your situation
- Assist you in prioritizing your goals for a divorce settlement
- Explain your options for a divorce, including the collaborative law process
- Investigate matters related to your case to gather evidence supporting your position
- Retain expert witnesses to assist with your case as needed
- Represent your best interests during negotiations and court hearings
Call us today to schedule a confidential case evaluation with an experienced Chicago collaborative divorce lawyer.
What Is the Collaborative Divorce Process in Illinois?
The Illinois Collaborative Process Act (ICPA) governs the process for a collaborative divorce in the state. Each party hires a collaborative divorce attorney to represent them during the process. The attorney advises them of their rights and helps them develop options for resolving disputes.
You must sign a Collaborative Participation Agreement. The agreement outlines the process, including the roles of professionals and experts. The agreement also states that the parties agree to settle their case outside of court.
How Does the Collaborative Divorce Process Work?
Once the parties have signed a Collaborative Participation Agreement, they can proceed to retain specialists and experts to assist them as they negotiate a divorce settlement. Experts and professionals may include financial professionals, child psychologists, divorce coaches, mediators, and estate planners. The professionals used for a collaborative divorce depend on the couple.
Collaborative divorce is directed by the spouses with the help of their attorneys and the professionals they hire. The spouses negotiate resolutions to disputes to develop a divorce settlement that is fair to both parties. The court must approve the divorce settlement. The court can change custody terms if the judge determines the negotiated custody arrangement is not in a child’s best interest.
Why Should I Consider a Collaborative Divorce in Illinois?
There are many benefits to choosing a collaborative divorce over a regular divorce. One of the most significant advantages of a collaborative divorce is having control over the outcome of your divorce.
Spouses can develop parenting plans and time-sharing agreements that work for them and their children. A collaborative divorce often produces a settlement agreement that spouses are more likely to follow because the parties customize the solutions based on their needs.
Other benefits of a collaborative divorce include:
- Collaborative divorces can cost less and take less time than a divorce litigated through the court.
- The collaborative divorce process is private; litigated divorces are not.
- It can be less stressful to go through a collaborative divorce than a regular divorce.
- A collaborative divorce does not feel as adversarial. You are not in the courtroom. Instead, you are in a neutral location where you can discuss solutions calmly.
Spouses can resolve all issues through the collaborative law process, including child custody, spousal support, property division, and child support. Again, the judge reviews the proposed agreement to ensure it is legal and protects the children’s interests.
Contact Us for a Confidential Consultation With a Chicago Collaborative Divorce Attorney
A collaborative divorce can have many benefits compared to a traditional one. However, you will want an experienced Chicago collaborative divorce attorney in your corner to make sure your rights are protected.
Contact KHK Family Law & Divorce Attorneys to schedule a confidential case review.