Chicago Divorce Attorney
Experienced Chicago Divorce Attorney Helping Clients Navigate Divorce, Child Custody, Property Division, and Parenting Time Matters
Divorce is one of the most significant legal and personal transitions a person can face. Whether your divorce is amicable or highly contested, having experienced legal guidance can help you protect your rights, understand your options, and make informed decisions about your future.
At Larimer Law LLC, attorney Angela Larimer provides practical, strategic guidance to individuals and families throughout Chicago and Cook County who are navigating divorce and related family law matters.
Every family is different. Larimer Law focuses on helping clients understand the legal process, evaluate available options, and work toward solutions that support their long-term goals.
Clear, Practical Guidance for Illinois Divorce Matters
Larimer Law provides experienced legal guidance as an Illinois divorce lawyer to individuals and families throughout Chicago and Cook County, Illinois. In select cases, representation is also available in DuPage, Lake, and Will Counties.
Divorce often involves legal, financial, and parenting issues that can affect your life long after the process is complete. Larimer Law focuses on helping clients understand their rights, responsibilities, and options under Illinois law so they can make informed decisions during a difficult transition.
Divorce in Illinois
Illinois is a no-fault divorce state. This means that neither spouse is required to prove wrongdoing in order to obtain a divorce. Instead, the court must find that irreconcilable differences have caused the breakdown of the marriage.
While the legal standard may seem straightforward, divorce often involves important decisions regarding:
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Division of marital property and debts
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Child custody and parental responsibilities
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Parenting time schedules
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Child support
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Spousal maintenance (alimony)
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Retirement accounts and other assets
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Future financial planning
The outcome of these issues can have a lasting impact on your family and financial future.
Contested and Uncontested Divorce
Uncontested Divorce
An uncontested divorce occurs when both spouses reach an agreement on all major issues before finalizing the divorce.
These cases may involve:
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Property division agreements
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Parenting plans
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Child support arrangements
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Spousal maintenance agreements
When parties are able to cooperate, uncontested divorces are often resolved more efficiently and with less conflict.
Contested Divorce
A contested divorce occurs when spouses disagree on one or more significant issues.
Common areas of dispute include:
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Child custody
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Parenting schedules
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Property division
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Financial support
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Business ownership interests
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Retirement accounts
Larimer Law helps clients navigate these disputes while protecting their interests throughout the legal process.
Property Division in Illinois Divorce Cases
Illinois follows the principle of equitable distribution when dividing marital property.
Equitable distribution does not necessarily mean a 50/50 split. Instead, courts consider multiple factors when determining what is fair under the circumstances.
Property issues may involve:
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The marital home
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Retirement accounts
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Investments
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Business interests
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Personal property
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Marital debts
Understanding which assets may be considered marital versus non-marital property is an important part of protecting your financial future during divorce.
Child Support Considerations
Illinois uses an income shares model when calculating child support.
The court may consider:
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Each parent's income
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Parenting time arrangements
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Health insurance expenses
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Childcare costs
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Educational expenses
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Special needs expenses
Child support matters are often closely connected to parenting time and custody decisions, making it important to evaluate the full picture when developing a family law strategy.
Why Choose Larimer Law LLC
Choosing a divorce attorney is an important decision.
Clients choose Larimer Law because of its commitment to:
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Clear communication
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Practical legal guidance
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Strategic problem-solving
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Personalized attention
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Respectful representation
Attorney Angela Larimer works closely with clients to help them understand the legal process and make informed decisions throughout every stage of their case.
Serving Divorce Clients Throughout Chicago and Cook County
Larimer Law LLC represents divorce and family law clients throughout Chicago and the surrounding Cook County area.
The firm serves individuals and families in communities including:
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Chicago
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Edgebrook
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Sauganash
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Jefferson Park
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Norwood Park
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Lincoln Square
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Forest Glen
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North Park
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Nearby Cook County communities
Whether you are considering divorce, responding to a divorce filing, or seeking guidance regarding custody or support matters, Larimer Law is available to discuss your situation.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a divorce take in Illinois?
The timeline depends on the complexity of the case and whether the parties agree on major issues. Some uncontested divorces may resolve relatively quickly, while contested cases often take longer.
Do I need an attorney for a divorce in Illinois?
While legal representation is not required, many individuals choose to work with an attorney to protect their rights and ensure important issues are properly addressed.
How is property divided during divorce?
Illinois courts divide marital property according to equitable distribution principles, considering multiple factors to determine what is fair.
Is Illinois a no-fault divorce state?
Yes. Illinois allows divorce based on irreconcilable differences without requiring either spouse to prove fault.
How is child support calculated?
Illinois uses an income shares model that considers the income of both parents, parenting time, and other child-related expenses.
Can parenting time arrangements be modified later?
In certain circumstances, parenting plans and parenting time arrangements may be modified when significant changes occur.
Contact
If you are considering divorce or have questions about your legal options, Larimer Law LLC can help you understand the process and discuss the next steps.
Schedule a consultation to learn more about your rights, responsibilities, and available options under Illinois law.
773.902.0200