Do My Spouse and I Meet the Requirements for a Joint Simplified Dissolution?

 Posted on May 11, 2021 in Divorce

Much of what people know about the divorce process stems from movies, TV shows, and what they have seen in the media. While this can provide a general idea about divorce, these on-screen divorces are usually much more dramatic than is necessary. In many cases, there is some sort of disagreement or tension between the couple, but this is not always the case. Some couples agree on getting a divorce long before they ever begin to seek legal help. Contested divorces can be stressful for everyone, especially when they drag on for months or years. Couples who agree on all issues may have the option to file a joint simplified divorce in Illinois, which could help make the divorce process a little easier.

Determining Eligibility

While a joint simplified dissolution of marriage can be much more favorable to some couples, not all couples will qualify for this type of divorce. Before a couple can file a joint simplified dissolution, they must ensure that they meet all requirements for this process. A couple can only use the simplified dissolution procedure if:

• Neither spouse relies on the other for financial support;
• Both spouses waive their right to spousal support;
• At least one spouse has been a resident of Illinois for at least six months;
• The couple has provided proof of irreconcilable differences;
• The couple has no children, and the wife is not currently pregnant;
• The marriage did not last for more than eight years;
• Neither spouse has retirement accounts, or if they do, the account is in their name only and has less than $10,000 in it;
• Neither spouse has a gross annual income of more than $30,000;
• The combined gross annual income of both spouses is less than $60,000;
• The total value of all marital property is less than $50,000;
• The couple has signed a written agreement that distributes any marital property or debt that is valued at more than $100 while also addressing any companion animals owned by either spouse; and
• Both spouses have fully disclosed all property and financial information.

Speak With Our Barrington, IL Simplified Marriage Dissolution Lawyer Today

If you are considering a simplified dissolution procedure to end your marriage, you are not required to have an attorney, but hiring a skilled Inverness, IL divorce lawyer can be extremely beneficial. At the Law Office of Nicholas W. Richardson, P.C., we will help you determine if a simplified dissolution procedure is the right choice for your situation. To schedule a free consultation, call us today at 847.873.6741.

Sources:

https://www.ilga.gov/legislation/ilcs/ilcs4.asp?DocName=075000050HPt%2E+IV%2DA&ActID=2086&ChapterID=59&SeqStart=5300000&SeqEnd=6100000