The first step in the dissolution of marriage in Illinois is to file a petition for dissolution of marriage. This petition must be filed in the county where either spouse resides. The petition must include information about the marriage, such as the date of marriage, the names of both spouses, and any children of the marriage. The petition must also include a statement of grounds for dissolution of marriage. In Illinois, there are several grounds for divorce, including irreconcilable differences, mental cruelty, and adultery.Once the petition is filed, the court will issue a summons to both spouses. This summons will require both spouses to appear in court for a hearing. At this hearing, the court will consider evidence from both sides and make a decision about the dissolution of marriage. The court may also issue temporary orders regarding child custody, child support, spousal support, and division of property.Once the court has made its decision, both spouses must sign a marital settlement agreement. This agreement outlines the terms of the divorce, including division of property, child custody and support, and spousal support. Once both spouses have signed the agreement, it must be filed with the court. Once the agreement is filed, the court will issue a final judgment of dissolution of marriage.The dissolution of marriage in Illinois can be a complicated process. It is important to understand the laws that govern it and to seek legal advice if necessary. An experienced family law attorney can help you navigate the process and ensure that your rights are protected throughout the process.Overview of the ProcessOnce the Petition is filed, it must be served to the other party by a process server or certified mail. After the Petition is served, the court will issue a Summons to accompany the Petition. This Summons sets forth the date and time for a hearing on the Petition and informs the parties of their rights and responsibilities throughout the process.The Respondent (the party receiving the Petition) must then file an Appearance and Answer. This document responds to each allegation in the Petition and also allows the Respondent to make any counterclaims they may have against the Petitioner. The Appearance and Answer must also be served to the Petitioner by a process server or certified mail.The next step in the process is attending the hearing on the Petition. At this hearing, both parties have an opportunity to present evidence and argue their case. During this time, they can also begin negotiating a settlement agreement (or marital settlement agreement). This document would establish a plan for dividing up marital property, making decisions about child custody and support, and any other agreements that are necessary for the divorce.The settlement agreement must then be filed with the court and approved by a judge. Once it is approved, both parties must follow every term of the agreement. If either party fails to do so, a breach of contract can occur, resulting in serious legal consequences.Finally, once all terms of the settlement agreement have been met, both parties are required to attend a final hearing. At this hearing, a judge will enter a Judgment for Dissolution of Marriage, which legally terminates the marriage and makes all other decisions outlined in the settlement agreement final.Requirements for FilingIn order to file for Dissolution of Marriage in Illinois, you must also meet the court's jurisdiction requirements. This means that at least one of the spouses must have been a resident of the state on the date of the filing or for 90 days prior. The court must also have jurisdiction over the issues of whether you are married or not and how to distribute the property and debts.Additionally, you must meet one of the following criteria:1. That irreconcilable differences have caused the irretrievable breakdown of the marriage;2. That one of the spouses has been declared legally mentally ill;3. That one of the spouses has been convicted of a felony; or4. That one of the spouses has committed adultery. In order to file for Dissolution of Marriage in Illinois, you will also need to provide certain documents, such as your marriage certificate, proof of residence, and financial documents. Additionally, you may need to provide copies of any prior divorce decrees. In order to file for Dissolution of Marriage in Illinois, both parties will need to attend a Mandatory Parenting Seminar. The seminar is required if there are minor children involved in the divorce, and it is intended to help parents better understand their rights and responsibilities as parents after divorce. It is important to note that filing for Dissolution of Marriage in Illinois is a complex process and can take up to six months from start to finish. Therefore, it is important to seek legal counsel from an experienced family law attorney to ensure that all necessary documents and requirements are met in order to complete the process quickly and efficiently.Contact an attorney at the Law Office of Adam M. Sault to discuss your legal options today. 815-529-2178. info@asaultlaw.com.