When a couple decides to get a divorce, they have a lot of options. Sometimes, the couple has more options than they realize. For example, a couple might begin the divorce process without realizing that they can settle it outside of court, rather than going through the litigation process. Although this option exists, it is not always possible for some couples. The best way for an individual couple to divorce depends on many factors present in their relationship and their goals for life after the divorce. To get a better understanding of the divorce options you are facing and how to determine which will work best for you, set up a legal consultation with me.
Most Divorces are Settled Out of Court
It is extremely common for a divorce to be settled out of court. This is because it is less stressful and much less expensive for a couple to resolve their issues without having to go to multiple hearings and lawyer meetings and comply with the court’s procedures.
Attempt to settle your divorce out of court if you are confident that you can work cooperatively with your spouse to dissolve your marriage. If you have any doubt about his or her willingness to be completely honest about your shared assets and to compromise on difficult issues, you may need to consider divorcing through the litigation process. While moving your case through litigation you can also attempt to settle, as many litigated cases do end up with a negotiated settlement.
You Retain Greater Control of your Divorce if you Settle Out of Court
When a judge decides your divorce case, it is because you have ceded the control to do so by going to court. When you settle out of court, you and your spouse retain a significant amount of control over your settlement, allowing you both a greater chance of getting what you want. But sometimes this is not possible. When one spouse is abusive, unable or unwilling to cooperate with the other, hides important financial information or the couple simply cannot reach an agreement, it may be necessary to have the court determine the outcome of your divorce.
Settling Out of Court Can be Good for your Relationship
Although you are divorcing your spouse, there is a good chance you will need to continue to have a relationship with him or her, especially if you have children together. Going through the stress of divorce court, where one party generally “loses,” can put a permanent strain on your relationship and make it more difficult to effectively co-parent your children in the future.
Work with a Chicago Divorce Attorney
Getting a divorce is complicated. Make your divorce easier by working with me, Michael C. Craven. I am an experienced divorce attorney based in Chicago and can work with you through any difficult divorce-related issues you face. I can guide you through the divorce process by drawing upon my knowledge of Illinois divorce law and my experience working with previous divorce clients.
