In Rolling Meadows, the first condition divorce petitioners must fulfill is the residency requirement. All petitioners must have lived in the state for no less than six months before starting their case. Other conditions also apply that enable an uncontested divorce. Family lawyers in Rolling Meadows explain the most common steps in a divorce case.
The Divorce Agreement
The divorce agreement defines which party receives each asset accumulated during the marriage. The assets include but are not limited to real property, furniture, automobiles, and antiques. The couple divides retirement plans, and life insurance policies, and makes decisions about filing their income taxes.
Child Custody and Support
Child custody and support are also defined in the divorce agreement. The couple has the option to choose sole or joint custody. The arrangement provides the child with the most suitable living environment, and support payments are based on the income of each party. Couples who can’t reach an agreement must attend a custody hearing where the judge will render a decision.
Divorce Trials and Evidence
Fault-based divorces often lead to a divorce trial. Mediation is often used to prevent a trial, but it doesn’t guarantee a solution. A divorce trial lasts up to two years based on the size of the marital estate. All evidence for fault-based divorce grounds is submitted to the court to determine admissibility.
Alimony or Spousal Support
Alimony is assigned as temporary or permanent arrangements. The requesting spouse must show evidence of financial hardship. The payments are used to supplement their income and help them achieve the same lifestyle they had during the marriage.
Rehabilitative alimony is another option used to help a spouse complete a college degree program. This alimony is paid until the spouse completes the program and increases their earning capacity.
In Rolling Meadows, divorce petitioners must fulfill all prerequisites associated with a divorce case when filing. The divorce grounds are defined clearly, and evidence is provided to support the claim. The divorce agreement details an equitable division of marital assets and defines child custody requirements. Child support and alimony payments are identified, too. Petitioners who need help from family lawyers in Rolling Meadows can contact the Law Office of Fedor Kozlov, P.C., and schedule an appointment right now.