A Dissolution of Marriage (commonly referred to as a divorce) is a serious legal step which should not be taken without considerable thought.
This information is being provided to you to assist you in filing a Joint Simplified Petition for Dissolution of Marriage. This type of dissolution procedure is not available to everyone. There are limitations on, among other items, the length of the marriage, the amount of property owned and the income of the parties. You should read this information carefully to see if this procedure is available to you. Also included is general information on Dissolution of Marriage and instructions for completing the necessary forms.
In order to qualify for a Joint Simplified Dissolution of Marriage, you must meet all of the following requirements:
- You and your spouse must be married less than (8) years
- No children were born or adopted by you and your spouse during your relationship and the wife is not currently pregnant
- Joint, annual, gross income from all sources must be less than $35,000.
- Neither you nor your spouse may have a gross annual income in excess of $20,000.
- Total value of marital property you and your spouse own must be less than $10,000.
- Neither you nor your spouse may own any real estate.
INSTRUCTIONS:
FORMS:
After you have filled ou the above paperwork you may file the documents with the Office of the Clerk of the Circuit Court and pay the applicable filing fee that can be found on our current
Fee Schedule.
The Illinois Supreme Court also provides forms and additional instructional information that are available on their website
http://www.illinoiscourts.gov/forms/approved/divorce/divorce.asp that can be used in replace of the forms provided by the Lake County Circuit Clerk's Office.