Get IL CCDR 0019 - Cook County 2020-2024

Some states give couples a time limit for separation, but that's not true in Illinois. Parties can continue the legal separation indefinitely, or, if either spouse would like to terminate the marriage, that spouse can file for divorce any time after the court finalizes the separation.

To legally separate in Illinois, one spouse will need to file a request with a circuit court in the county where they live. They can also file in the county they last lived in as a couple. A court clerk will be able to give you the forms you need.

You can seek a legal separation by filing a Petition stating that you and your spouse are living separate and apart and providing information similar to that in a Petition for Dissolution of Marriage. You must file for legal separation in the county where: Your spouse resides; OR.

In Cook County, it costs $388 to file for a divorce, annulment, or legal separation. It then costs $251 for the other party to file their response. Other counties will have similar rates to file for divorce. These do not include any attorney fees.

Emergency Motions shall include an affidavit or verification stating facts that identify the nature of the sudden or unforeseen circumstances which give rise to the emergency and the reason why the matter should take precedence.

How do I get a legal separation? To get a legal separation, you must be physically living apart from your spouse when you ask the court for a legal separation. You must then file a Petition for Legal Separation with the Circuit Clerk in your area. Ask them if they have a form you can fill out.

Go to room 802 on the 8th Floor of the Daley Center and then to the Domestic Relations Cashier's station. Tell the clerk that you would like to file your Appearance. They will take your documents and your fee, then time stamp your forms and give you two copies back.