What Is the Average Cost of an Illinois Divorce?

 Posted on December 27, 2024 in Illinois Divorce

Pursuing a divorce in Illinois can be stressful, especially if you are concerned with the cost of your divorce. It is no secret that fees in a divorce can add up, but you should not let this stop you from starting the process of divorce and obtaining legal assistance if you think this is the right step for you.

Once you understand the average costs associated with Illinois divorce, you will have a better idea of how to tackle this cost while you work with an experienced Illinois divorce attorney.

Common Divorce Expenses 

When it comes to seeking a divorce in Illinois, many people are worried about the final cost. Various expenses associated with a divorce can accumulate quickly, and you will be responsible for many costs such as court fees (initial filing fees for your Illinois divorce range between $200 and $400), fees for photocopies of documents, and attorney’s fees. In certain cases, such as when one spouse is financially dependent on the other, the spouse with an income may be responsible for the other spouse’s attorney fees, as well as interim spousal support.

The average cost of divorce varies but you may find the following information useful: 

• Overall, Illinois divorce costs tend to range between $10,000 and $15,000 on average.

• The cost of your divorce is typically more expensive if you have shared children.

• If you pursue an uncontested divorce in Illinois, your average divorce costs may be lower, ranging between $2,500 and $5,000.

Keep in mind that over 90 percent of Illinois divorce cases end in a settlement before a trial. If your divorce case is highly contested and ends up needing a trial, you may end up paying tens of thousands of dollars before a settlement is reached.

What Affects the Cost of a Divorce?

Several factors influence the overall cost of a divorce in Illinois:

• Attorney Fees: Attorneys typically charge hourly rates, which can range from $250 to $450 or more per hour in Illinois. The total cost depends on how many hours are spent on your case.

• Court Costs: Filing fees and other court-related expenses can add up. 

• Children: Divorces involving child custody or child support issues are often more expensive because they require additional court hearings, mediation, or evaluations.

• Property Division: Cases involving complex assets like businesses, retirement accounts, or real estate may require expert valuations, which can significantly increase costs.

• Level of Conflict: If you and your spouse can communicate effectively and compromise, your divorce will likely be less expensive. High-conflict divorces often involve more court time and legal intervention, driving up costs.

How Do I Pay For My Illinois Divorce?

Paying for your Illinois divorce can seem overwhelming, but you do have options even if you are low on money. In some cases, you may qualify for a waiver for certain divorce filing fees or court fees. You might also be able to petition the court for relief from divorce expenses. If approved, the court will make a judgment for your spouse to contribute toward your attorney’s legal fees. Your lawyer can help you understand if this is an option for you.

Reducing the Cost of Divorce

While some expenses are unavoidable, there are steps you can take to keep costs under control:

• Choose an uncontested divorce if possible: Agreeing on issues like property division, custody, and support can save you time and money.

• Consider mediation: Mediation involves a neutral third party who helps resolve disputes outside of court. It is often less expensive than litigation.

• Have a plan and come to meetings organized: Provide your attorney with complete and accurate information upfront to reduce the time spent gathering documents.

• Communicate clearly: Avoid unnecessary delays by responding quickly, clearly, and completely to your attorney and the court.

Retainers and Attorney Fees

If you choose to hire us and we agree to represent you, we will formalize our arrangement with an engagement letter. This letter will outline our hourly rates and billing procedures. At the outset, we will request an initial retainer, which is an upfront payment. The amount of the retainer will depend on the complexity and nature of your case. 

Once the agreement is signed and the retainer is paid, we will become your attorneys and will not take on any other cases that would create a conflict with representing you. The time spent by our firm working on your case will be deducted from the retainer.

You will receive a detailed invoice each month, showing the work completed on your case and the associated charges. If the retainer is exhausted, we may ask you to provide an additional retainer rather than making monthly payments on the outstanding balance. 

Is Hiring an Attorney for My Divorce Worth it? 

Although the cost of hiring an attorney may seem significant, it is a worthwhile investment. An experienced divorce attorney will protect your rights, help you understand your options, and ensure that all issues are handled fairly. Trying to go through the divorce process on your own can lead to costly mistakes or poor outcomes that could affect you for years to come.

This is especially important when it comes to property division and child custody. Your relationship with your children is priceless and you deserve an attorney who will fight to maximize the amount of time you get to spend with them. Your property, on the other hand, can very much be measured – and it requires the same level of dedication when it comes to protecting your interests. While it may be tempting to make compromises just to get the divorce over with, not getting your fair share of assets can permanently impact your financial future. 

Call a St. Charles, IL Divorce Lawyer

You should not let fear of paying for your divorce stop you from pursuing this option if it is best for you and your family. A skilled Kane County, IL divorce attorney at Weiler & Associates, Inc. is ready to help you navigate your divorce and your options for affording it. Our knowledgeable and compassionate attorneys are ready to help you get the divorce results you need. Call 630-331-9110 today.