Going through a divorce can stress you as you have to deal with complex processes and simultaneously come to terms with the end of a life you were used to. However, not knowing what to expect can intensify the stress. Thus, it will be best to understand Illinois divorce laws to make the right calls.
Additionally, you should be prepared to avoid delays. Here are three tips to help you get ready for a divorce.
Discuss major issues with your spouse
Not all divorce cases have to go to court. With professional guidance, you and your spouse can resolve your case outside court, particularly if you can agree on property division, child custody and visitation and child and spousal support.
List your assets
To agree on the issues mentioned above, you need to know your finances. For this reason, list your assets, marital and separate, divided into respective categories, and debts. Then, get an expert to determine their current values.
Illinois is an equitable division state, which means that property is divided fairly. When you know your assets and their values, you can estimate how much you will have after the divorce. This way, you can have a realistic budget for your new life.
Prepare a parenting plan
If you and your spouse have children, you need to have a parenting plan to determine how they will be taken care of after the divorce. If you can agree on child custody, visitation and support outside court, you may start this process earlier. If not, have a temporary plan before the court gives an order.
Preparing for your divorce can make the process more manageable. It will also benefit you to get professional help to build a reliable approach that protects your future and rights as a parent.
