How to File for Divorce in Illinois Without a Lawyer (Step-by-Step Guide)

Filing for divorce in Illinois without a lawyer is possible when both spouses agree on major issues. Illinois calls divorce a Dissolution of Marriage and has no mandatory waiting period for uncontested cases. The filing fee is approximately $289. This guide explains every step of the DIY divorce process in Illinois.

How to File Divorce in Illinois Without a Lawyer

Who qualifies for a divorce without a lawyer in Illinois?

You may be able to file for divorce without a lawyer in Illinois if both spouses agree on all major issues including property division, debts, and — if applicable — child custody and support. Illinois is a no-fault divorce state, which simplifies the process considerably.

Both spouses agree on all terms of the divorce
There is no history of domestic violence or coercion
Neither spouse has highly complex assets such as a business or pension
Both spouses are willing to cooperate and sign documents

Illinois residency requirement

At least one spouse must have been a resident of Illinois for a minimum of 90 days before filing for dissolution of marriage. You must file in the Circuit Court of the county where either spouse lives.

Illinois divorce waiting period

Illinois has no mandatory waiting period for dissolution of marriage. However, Illinois does require that spouses have lived separately for at least 6 months before filing — this separation period serves as evidence that the marriage is irretrievably broken. If both spouses agree the marriage is irretrievably broken, a judge can waive this requirement.

Step-by-step divorce process in Illinois

Step 1 — Download Illinois dissolution forms
Illinois divorce forms are available from the Illinois Courts website at illinoiscourts.gov. Illinois provides complete self-help divorce packets with instructions for different situations.

Step 2 — File at your county Circuit Court
File your completed Petition for Dissolution of Marriage at the Circuit Court clerk’s office in your county. The filing fee is approximately $289 in most Illinois counties. Cook County (Chicago) fees may be higher — approximately $334.

Step 3 — Serve your spouse
After filing, your spouse must be formally served with the Petition and Summons. If your spouse agrees to cooperate, they can sign an Entry of Appearance or Waiver of Service. Otherwise, use the county sheriff or a private process server.

Step 4 — Complete financial disclosure
Illinois requires both spouses to exchange financial disclosure documents. You must complete an Affidavit of Service and provide financial information to the court. Both spouses must sign the Marital Settlement Agreement covering all property, debts, and support issues.

Step 5 — Final hearing
For an uncontested dissolution in Illinois, both spouses typically need to appear at a brief final hearing called a Prove-Up Hearing. The judge asks a few questions, reviews the paperwork, and signs the Judgment for Dissolution of Marriage.

Required forms for divorce in Illinois

Petition for Dissolution of Marriage
Summons
Entry of Appearance or Waiver of Service
Marital Settlement Agreement
Judgment for Dissolution of Marriage
If children are involved: Parenting Plan and Child Support Guidelines Worksheet

All forms are available free at illinoiscourts.gov.

How much does a divorce cost in Illinois?

The court filing fee in Illinois is approximately $289 in most counties. Cook County charges approximately $334. For a DIY uncontested dissolution, your total cost is typically $289–$450. Attorney fees for an uncontested divorce in Illinois typically range from $1,500 to $5,000. Contested divorces with attorneys can cost $15,000–$30,000 or more.

How long does a divorce take in Illinois?

Since Illinois has no mandatory waiting period after filing, the timeline depends on court scheduling and how quickly you complete the paperwork. Most uncontested DIY divorces in Illinois are finalized in 2–4 months. Contested divorces typically take 12–24 months or longer.

Frequently asked questions — Illinois divorce

Is Illinois a no-fault divorce state?

Yes. Illinois is a pure no-fault divorce state since 2016. The only ground for dissolution of marriage in Illinois is that the marriage is “irretrievably broken.” You do not need to prove wrongdoing by either spouse.

Does Illinois require a separation period before divorce?

Illinois requires that spouses have lived separately for at least 6 months before filing, which serves as evidence the marriage is irretrievably broken. However, if both spouses agree the marriage is irretrievably broken, a judge can waive this separation requirement entirely.

What is a Prove-Up Hearing in Illinois?

A Prove-Up Hearing is the final court appearance in an Illinois uncontested divorce. Both spouses appear before the judge, who asks basic questions to confirm the facts of the case and reviews the Marital Settlement Agreement before signing the Judgment for Dissolution of Marriage.

Can I file for divorce in Illinois without my spouse’s cooperation?

Yes. You can file a contested dissolution in Illinois without your spouse’s agreement. Your spouse must be formally served and has 30 days to respond. If they do not respond, you may proceed with a default divorce.

What if I cannot afford the Illinois divorce filing fee?

If you cannot afford the filing fee, you can apply for a fee waiver by filing an Application to Sue or Defend as an Indigent Person with the court. If your income qualifies, the court may waive the filing fee entirely.

Divorce guides in other states

Divorce laws vary significantly by state. Select your state below to find the complete guide.

Legal disclaimer

The information on this page is for general educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Divorce laws in Illinois vary by county and individual circumstances. If your divorce involves significant assets, children, or disputes, consider consulting a licensed attorney in Illinois.