The first step is to file a Petition for Dissolution of Marriage with the circuit court in the county where you or your spouse resides. You must meet Illinois residency requirements, which typically require living in the state for at least 90 days.

Divorce changes your finances, your family, and your daily life all at once. It carries legal weight and emotional strain, and the decisions you make now will shape your future for years to come. You deserve clear answers and a steady plan during this transition.
At Corri Fetman & Associates, Ltd., we deliver strategic, personalized representation to clients across the Chicago area. Founder Corri Fetman has built a reputation for sharp analytical thinking, direct counsel, and a relentless commitment to her clients’ goals. As a respected authority on divorce, relationships, and family law, she brings both courtroom skill and genuine care to every case.
People come to us at many different stages of the divorce journey. We help clients who may not yet know where to begin and those already deep in a contested case. You may see your own situation in one of the scenarios below:
Wherever you fall on this list, we meet you where you are and guide you toward a fair resolution.
Every divorce follows a general framework under Illinois law, though the timeline and intensity depend on your circumstances. Here is how the process typically unfolds, along with the support we offer at each stage.
The process begins when one spouse files a Petition for Dissolution of Marriage in the circuit court of the county where either spouse lives. You must meet the state’s residency requirement, which generally means living in Illinois for at least 90 days. We prepare and file your petition, confirm you meet the requirements, and set the case on solid footing from day one.
After filing, the other spouse must receive formal notice of the case. We handle proper service of process and guide you through what happens if your spouse is uncooperative or hard to locate, so the case keeps moving.
Both sides exchange financial records, including bank statements, tax returns, and details about property and debts. Full disclosure matters because it forms the foundation of a fair settlement. When a spouse hides assets or withholds documents, we use formal tools and trusted financial experts to uncover the truth and protect your share.
Many divorces are resolved through negotiation or mediation rather than trial. We work to settle disputes over property division, parenting time, child support, and spousal maintenance on terms that serve your goals. A negotiated outcome often saves time, money, and stress.
When settlement is not possible, the case proceeds to trial, and a judge decides the open issues. We prepare thoroughly, gather evidence, ready witnesses, and present a clear, persuasive case in court. The final decree officially ends the marriage and resolves every disputed matter.
Across these stages, we offer a full range of family law services, including:
Choosing the right attorney can shape the outcome of your case and the way you experience it. Here is what sets our firm apart.
Our goal stays the same throughout: reduce the emotional and financial toll on you and your family while pursuing the strongest possible result.
You do not have to face divorce alone or guess your way through the legal system. With the right team beside you, you can protect your rights, your finances, and your relationship with your children, and begin the next chapter of your life with a clear plan.
Contact Corri Fetman & Associates, Ltd. today to schedule your consultation. Let us help you understand your options and pursue a fair, lasting resolution.
We understand that divorce can be overwhelming, with decisions that have long-lasting impacts on your life and your family. That’s why our team is committed to offering knowledgeable, candid, and experienced legal guidance to help you navigate this challenging time.
The first step is to file a Petition for Dissolution of Marriage with the circuit court in the county where you or your spouse resides. You must meet Illinois residency requirements, which typically require living in the state for at least 90 days.
The timeline depends on the complexity of the case. An uncontested divorce can take a few months, while a contested divorce may take a year or more.
Illinois is a no-fault divorce state, which means the only ground for divorce is “irreconcilable differences,” which signifies the breakdown of the marriage.
Yes, Illinois is a no-fault divorce state. You do not need to prove wrongdoing by either spouse to file for divorce.
The marital home may be sold and the proceeds split, or one spouse may keep the home and buy out the other’s share. The decision depends on financial and family circumstances.
Spousal maintenance is determined based on factors like the length of the marriage, the income and needs of each spouse, and their ability to support themselves post-divorce.
You can request a name change as part of the divorce decree. This typically applies to restoring a maiden or previous name.
If one spouse is uncooperative, the divorce can still proceed as long as the filing spouse meets the legal requirements and serves the other spouse with the appropriate paperwork.
If hidden assets are discovered, the court may impose penalties, and the division of property may be adjusted. Financial disclosures are required to ensure transparency.
While it is not legally required to have a divorce lawyer, it is highly recommended. Divorce involves many important details, and having an experienced attorney can help guide the process and ensure your rights are protected.