Illinois is a no-fault divorce state. This means that there is no need for one spouse to prove they were wronged in order to gain a divorce. All the couple needs to show is that there are irreconcilable differences that cannot be repaired. While this can make the process easier and quicker, divorce is a process that stirs up powerful emotions. Our Divorce Attorney, Erin Birt, is trained in Discernment Counseling Protocols and she will assess a client's readiness for divorce or separation and refer her clients to trusted divorce counselors, if needed, to provide clarity on the next steps. Below are some tips for working with a divorce counselor and our divorce attorney.

If you feel you need clarity on your relationship, separation or divorce. Contact us today at (630) 891-2478 for help determining your next steps. 

5 Tips for Divorcing Couples in Illinois

If you or your spouse are ambivalent about separating or getting a divorce, you should meet with our discernment trained divorce attorney, Erin Birt, to assess your readiness for divorce. That assessment and the tips below will help you through the legal process if you determine a separation or divorce is necessary.

1. Aim Toward Using Mediation Instead of Going to Court

Mediation gives couples the ability to co-create a settlement, rather than to rely on a judge, and sets a foundation for future problem-solving together. Your divorce attorney can help organize your divorce to make your mediation time as productive as possible.

2. Put the Well-Being of Your Children as a Top Priority

When you both prioritize your children, it is easier to set petty grievances aside. Divorce is hard on children, but they may feel less stress about their future when they see their parents working together. You will be laying the groundwork for your divorce counselor and lawyer to create an equitable and amicable parenting plan.

3. Learn as Much as Possible About the Divorce Process

You will feel more confident and in control when you are aware of the process ahead. Your divorce attorney will share strategies and processes with you, but you are the ultimate decision-maker.

4. Take Care of Yourself

Divorce can take a toll on even the strongest of individuals. When you take care of yourself, you'll be better able to take care of your children and make better decisions about your future. A divorce or discernment counselor can help you sort out many of the emotions that come with divorce.

5. Honesty is Key

Honesty and accuracy will allow both your counselor and attorney to provide the best help to you and your spouse.

Support and Resources

A divorce is not a good time to isolate yourself. Seek out family and friends who can help and be a shoulder to lean upon. And don't be afraid to seek outside resources for help:

• The Lilac Tree
• Divorce Support Groups in Illinois
• Client Wellness from Birt Law

Contact our Discernment Trained Divorce Attorney

If you are in need of additional help to decide if a separation or divorce is the appropriate next step for you and your family, contact us to get help today. You can read more about the benefits of Divorce Counseling and Discernment Counseling on our website and how our team will help if you do decide to divorce. We offer a consultation and planning session to help you plan for divorce. We can also help provide clarity if you reconcile by drafting a post nuptial agreement so both spouses are on the same page going forward. Get help today (630) 891-2478.

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