Meet Illinois residency requirements: at least one spouse must have lived in Illinois for 90 days before filing
Choose the correct county to file in, usually where either spouse lives
Complete the required divorce forms, including the Petition for Dissolution of Marriage and any related forms
File the forms with the circuit court clerk in the appropriate county
Pay the filing fee or request a fee waiver if you cannot afford it
Have the other spouse formally served with the divorce papers
Wait for the response period after service
Exchange required financial disclosures and any other required information
Negotiate and sign a marital settlement agreement if both spouses agree on terms
Resolve issues involving property, debts, child custody, parenting time, and support if needed
Attend court hearings if the case is contested or if the judge requires a hearing
Complete any required parenting class if there are minor children
Submit final judgment paperwork for the judge to review and sign
Receive the final Judgment for Dissolution of Marriage from the court
Follow the court orders regarding property division, support, custody, and name changes if applicable