Illinois Family Law Insider

How is Property Division in Divorce Decided in Illinois? - #4

Sterling Lawyers Episode 4

How are property and debts divided in an Illinois divorce? In this Illinois Family Law Insider episode, Sterling Lawyers CEO and Co-Founder Jeff Hughes and Sterling Hughes Managing Partner Katie VanDeusen explore how courts approach this critical aspect of divorce. Unlike some states with automatic 50/50 divisions, Illinois follows an "equitable" approach that gives judges significant discretion. 

We talk about:

  • Why complete financial disclosure is absolutely essential (and the serious consequences of hiding assets)
  • The discovery tools available to uncover hidden assets, from formal requests to subpoenas
  • How judges determine whether property is "marital" or "non-marital"
  • The factors judges consider when deciding what's "fair" in your specific situation

Listen in for a clear explanation of Illinois' approach to property division, including practical insights on how to maintain your credibility throughout this process, which Katie emphasizes is your "most precious asset" during divorce proceedings.