Chicago Divorce Lawyer
A divorce in Chicago is not just the end of a marriage; it is a complex financial and legal restructuring that demands sophisticated strategy and unwavering advocacy. With intricate assets, high-stakes child custody matters, and the complexities of the Cook County court system, you need a legal team that is as strategic and dynamic as the city itself. The Law Offices of Anthony R. Scifo provides assertive, intelligent, and discreet representation for individuals navigating divorce throughout Chicago.
We understand that your primary concerns are protecting your children, securing your financial future, and moving forward with confidence. Our approach is to combine meticulous legal preparation with a client-focused strategy, ensuring your voice is heard and your goals remain at the forefront. Whether your case requires delicate negotiation or aggressive litigation at the Daley Center, we are prepared to champion your interests. For a free, confidential discussion about your case, call our team at (847) 628-8311 today.
Comprehensive Guidance for Every Aspect of Your Chicago Divorce
Our firm handles the full spectrum of legal issues related to the dissolution of a marriage. We provide expert counsel on all divorce matters to protect what you value most.
High-Net-Worth & Complex Property Division
Divorces involving significant assets require exceptional financial acumen. We have extensive experience handling the valuation and division of businesses, professional practices, real estate holdings, and investment portfolios to ensure an equitable outcome. Learn more about our approach to complex property division.
Parental Responsibilities & Child Support
We are dedicated to establishing parenting plans that foster stability for your children and protect your parental rights. We handle all aspects of child custody and parenting time, as well as ensuring child support is calculated fairly and accurately.
Spousal Maintenance (Alimony)
The determination of alimony is a critical financial component of many divorces. We build strong arguments regarding the eligibility, amount, and duration of spousal support, whether you are the potential payor or recipient. Understand the factors involved in spousal maintenance.
Mediation & Alternative Dispute Resolution
Resolving your divorce outside of a public courtroom can save time, money, and stress while offering greater privacy. We are skilled negotiators who can effectively represent you in mediation to help you achieve a favorable settlement.
Orders of Protection
Your safety is paramount. In situations involving domestic abuse or harassment, we can take immediate legal action to secure an Order of Protection to ensure the safety of you and your children.
The Divorce Process at the Cook County Daley Center
For Chicago residents, divorce cases are filed in the Domestic Relations Division of the Cook County Circuit Court, primarily located at the Richard J. Daley Center. This is one of the busiest court systems in the country, and navigating it requires an attorney with specific, firsthand experience.
- Filing and Service: The process begins when one spouse files a Petition for Dissolution of Marriage and legally serves the other spouse.
- Financial Discovery: Both parties must exchange detailed financial affidavits and supporting documents. In Chicago cases, this can be an extensive process involving business valuations and forensic accounting.
- Temporary Motions: The court may hear motions for temporary child support, spousal maintenance, or exclusive possession of the marital home while the divorce is pending.
- Settlement Negotiations: The vast majority of cases are settled out of court through negotiation or mediation. An attorney who knows the tendencies of Cook County judges can provide a significant advantage in these discussions.
- Trial: If an agreement cannot be reached, the case will proceed to a trial where a judge will make the final decisions.
You can find official forms and information at the Clerk of the Circuit Court of Cook County website, but expert legal guidance is essential for navigating the process correctly.
Why Choose Scifo Law for Your Divorce in Chicago?
In a city with endless legal options, our firm provides a clear advantage for those facing divorce.
- Financial Sophistication: We possess the financial acumen required to handle high-net-worth and complex asset cases, ensuring no detail is overlooked in protecting your financial future.
- Strategic Cook County Litigators: We are not just negotiators; we are proven trial attorneys. Our readiness to litigate at the Daley Center gives you leverage at the settlement table.
- Unwavering Discretion and Focus: We understand the need for privacy and provide personalized, one-on-one attention. We are committed to serving our clients across all of Chicago’s diverse neighborhoods.
Learn more about our dedicated approach to representing clients throughout the city of Chicago.
Frequently Asked Questions about Divorce in Cook County
Is a trial necessary for my Chicago divorce?
No. In fact, more than 95% of divorce cases in Cook County are resolved through a negotiated settlement agreement without a trial. Our primary goal is to achieve a favorable outcome for you as efficiently as possible, often through mediation or direct negotiation.
How is property divided in a high-net-worth divorce?
Illinois law requires an “equitable” distribution. In high-asset cases, this involves a meticulous process of identifying all marital assets, securing expert valuations for businesses, art, or real estate, and tracing any non-marital property to ensure a fair and just division.
How do I file for divorce at the Daley Center?
The first step is preparing and filing a Petition for Dissolution of Marriage with the Clerk of Court. However, it is highly advisable to consult with an attorney before filing anything to ensure you have a clear strategy and have taken steps to protect your assets and your rights from the very beginning.
How do you protect my privacy during the divorce process?
We prioritize our clients’ privacy by favoring out-of-court settlement negotiations and mediation, which are confidential processes. By resolving issues amicably, we can often avoid having sensitive personal and financial details become part of the public court record.