Protecting Your Future In Divorce
There’s no denying the pain and stress that come with divorce. What often gets overlooked, however, is the opportunity for a fresh start — a new life free from the conflict and acrimony that led to the dissolution of your marriage.
At Bruckert, Behme & Long, P.C., we understand that, as divorce attorneys, we are helping our clients embark on this new chapter of their lives. We take this role very seriously and work hard to make sure the people we serve are in the best possible position to live happy, financially stable lives in a post-divorce future.
With law offices in O’Fallon and New Baden, we provide experienced, understanding divorce representation to clients throughout the Metro East region.
Our attorneys are not only experienced in divorce law but also routinely handle estate planning and business law matters. This versatile background allows us to serve clients with multiple and overlapping legal needs, such as updating an estate plan after a divorce or dividing business assets in property division proceedings.
Full-Service Divorce Law Representation
We can protect your interests in all divorce-related matters, including:
- Child custody and support
- Property division
- Spousal support
- Divorce modifications
- Enforcement actions
Resolving Divorce Disputes
Disputes in divorce proceedings are common and there is no one way to approach them. We tailor a strategy to suit the unique needs of our clients.
In some cases, a favorable outcome can be reached through negotiation and settlement. We pursue amicable outcomes whenever possible, especially when children are involved.
We understand, however, that the other party is not always willing to be reasonable. When necessary, we are always prepared for aggressive litigation.
Frequently Asked Questions
It is understandable to have questions when facing divorce in Illinois. Below are some of the questions we see most often:
Do I need a specific reason or grounds to file for divorce in Illinois?
No. Illinois only recognizes no-fault divorce, meaning that the only grounds you can cite are irreconcilable differences in your relationship. You do not have to prove that your spouse was at fault or admit fault yourself. You just have to claim that the marriage has broken down.
What are the common types of divorce in Illinois?
A divorce can be contested or uncontested. This does not mean that the divorce itself is in question, but simply that the couple disagrees over some of the terms. Common reasons for a contested divorce include disagreements regarding child custody arrangements or marital property division.
What is the difference between separate property and marital property?
Most assets couples acquire during their marriage are considered marital property, which means they must pass through the property division process under Illinois law. This could include income and earnings, investments, retirement benefits, family home and vehicles, to name a few.
Items that people acquire before marriage often qualify as separate assets, meaning they do not go through property division. This can also be true for some direct gifts, like an inheritance, as long as it is not commingled with other marital assets. Commingling can change the status and make the asset subject to property division.
How long does an Illinois divorce take to resolve?
It depends on the case. For many people, it will take around six months, but it could technically be as short as a few weeks or as long as a few years. A contested divorce tends to take longer, whereas a couple that is already in agreement on the terms can often move quickly through the process. The court schedule can also impact the speed at which the divorce is granted, as a couple may have to wait for certain court dates.
If you have further questions, we would be happy to answer them at your initial consultation.
Talk To An Experienced Lawyer About Your Divorce Issues
If you are facing divorce in Illinois, or even see the possibility of divorce on the horizon, our lawyers are here to provide you with knowledgeable advice and strong advocacy. Call 618-589-1152 or use our contact form to schedule a consultation.