Legal Separation and Divorce

Our law firm, Joel C. Zimmerman & Associates, Ltd., in Tinley Park and Chicago, Illinois, has been assisting fathers in obtaining the rights to their children for more than 25 years. Joel C. Zimmerman is an experienced Tinley Park attorney with substantial experience in fathers' rights who is willing to provide fathers with individualized services that help them understand their best legal course of action.

Grounds for Divorce in Illinois

In a number of states throughout the United States when pursuing a divorce, including Illinois, clients may have to state a reason why they are seeking a divorce.

In Illinois, grounds for divorce are due to variety of reasons including:

• No fault (irreconcilable differences)
• Impotency
• Bigamy
• Adultery
• Desertion
• Habitual drunkenness
• Habitual drug abuse
• Mental cruelty
• Physical cruelty
• Infection with STD

One of the most typical grounds for divorce is "no fault." It is also known as a reason of "irreconcilable differences." Partners have to be separated for at least six months with an affidavit (a written statement sworn to and notarized) obtained prior to the finalization of the divorce or two years without an affidavit to file under this ground.

How Does the Divorce Process Work?

At Joel C. Zimmerman & Associates, Ltd., we try to make the divorce process work smoothly for our clients. Our law firm takes the time to interview clients and understand the facts of their case. We prepare documents that are necessary and appropriate for each case and serve them on the opposing party. Our law firm diligently gathers information that is helpful to your case. Finally, we assist in the resolution of any temporary or long-term legal issues you are facing. That includes helping with the division of assets, liabilities, child custody and parenting time as well as determining possession of retirement funds and real property.

Legal Separation

A legal separation is another option that individuals may want to pursue for a number of reasons. Some individuals may choose this route because of specific religious beliefs, medical circumstances, or insurance purposes. A legal separation differs from divorce because it is limited by statute as to which matters which can be addressed. Issues such as alimony (maintenance), child support, custody, and visitation can all be addressed under a legal separation.