What Is the Easiest Way To Get Divorced in Illinois?

 Posted on December 11, 2025 in Divorce

There is more than one way to get a divorce, and the method that works best for you depends on the details of your situation. An uncontested divorce is often the fastest and smoothest process, but that is not a possibility for everyone. Our Orland Park, IL divorce lawyers will assess your circumstances and help you understand which type of divorce best suits your case.

How Does Divorce Work in Illinois?

Illinois is a no-fault divorce state. This means that a spouse does not need to prove that the other person did something wrong in order to get a divorce. Under 750 ILCS 5/401, a divorce may be granted when irreconcilable differences have caused the breakdown of the marriage and the spouses have lived separate and apart for at least six months.

The process usually starts when one spouse files a petition with the court. The other spouse is served with the paperwork and given time to respond. Both sides must share basic financial information so that fair decisions can be made about property and support. If there are children, parenting time and financial support must also be addressed. When both spouses agree on how they should resolve these issues, the court can approve the divorce without prolonged hearings.

What Is the Fastest Way To Get a Divorce in Illinois?

When your goal is to get divorced as quickly as possible, you want it to be uncontested. This simply means that both spouses agree on all terms before a judge becomes involved. When there are no disputes, the legal process becomes much shorter and simpler.

Typically, you sign a written settlement that explains how property will be divided and how any support will be handled. Once the agreement is filed, the judge reviews it to make sure it is fair and follows the law. In many cases, an uncontested divorce in Illinois can be completed in as little as a few months once all paperwork is filed and approved.

What Makes a Divorce More Complicated in Illinois?

Some divorces take longer because of the issues involved. More issues usually mean more time and more legal work. Common factors that can add complexity include:

• Disputes about parenting time or decision-making for children

• Disagreement over child support or spousal maintenance

• Significant assets or large amounts of debt

• A business owned by one or both spouses

• A lack of cooperation during the process

When these issues arise, the court may need to step in and make decisions after hearing evidence from both sides. This can extend the timeline and increase emotional strain.

Do You Need a Lawyer for an Uncontested Divorce in Illinois?

Some people consider handling an uncontested divorce on their own. While this may work in very limited situations, many still choose to work with a lawyer for peace of mind. Divorce paperwork must be prepared correctly, and settlement agreements must meet legal standards before a judge will approve them.

For example, if you agree on spousal maintenance, you still need to confirm that the final terms follow the law under 750 ILCS 5/504. A lawyer can also manage deadlines, court filings, and required disclosures, which often prevents delays and costly errors.

Contact Our Joliet, IL Divorce Attorneys for a Consultation

If you are considering divorce and want clear guidance from the start, speaking with an attorney can be a helpful first step. Our Orland Park, IL divorce lawyers approach every case with care and respect, guided by our slogan, "Preserving The Dignity of Families In Transition." We are proud to be connected to the legal community through memberships in the Black Women Lawyers’ Association and the Black Bar Association of Will County.

Call The Foray Hurst Firm at 312-702-1293 today and schedule a consultation to find out more.