Can You Get Divorced in Less than Three Months in Illinois?

 Posted on May 18, 2025 in Divorce

Some people want their divorce to be over as quickly as possible. Whether the decision was mutual or the result of painful conflict, it is understandable to want to move forward with your life. In Illinois, it is sometimes possible to finalize a divorce in less than three months, but each divorce is unique and the time your divorce will take will depend on several factors.

At Ann O’Connell Law, Ltd., our Cook County, IL family lawyer provides clear pricing, reasonable fees, and hands-on legal support to help our clients achieve efficient outcomes whenever possible. Here is what you need to know if you are hoping for a fast divorce.

What Are the Legal Requirements for Divorce in Illinois?

Illinois only allows no-fault divorce, which simply means there are irreconcilable differences and the marriage cannot be saved. Before a court will grant a divorce, however, you must meet the state’s residency and separation requirements:

• At least one spouse must have lived in Illinois for 90 days before filing.

• If one spouse contests the divorce, the couple must live "separate and apart" for at least six months.

Fortunately, the six-month requirement is presumed to be met if both parties agree that the marriage is over. That means a couple can potentially finalize their divorce shortly after the 90-day residency period is met, assuming there are no other delays.

How Long Does an Uncontested Divorce Take?

The fastest divorces in Illinois are uncontested. This means both spouses agree on every major issue, including asset division, alimony, child custody, and child support:

If everything is agreed upon, and the paperwork is properly prepared and filed, an uncontested divorce can sometimes be resolved in under three months from the filing date. Much depends on the court’s schedule and how quickly the couple can reach and sign their agreements.

What Can Slow Down the Divorce Process?

Even when spouses want to resolve their case quickly, there are a few factors that can make the process take longer:

• Disagreements about money, property, or parenting

• One spouse dragging their feet or refusing to cooperate

• Mistakes in paperwork that require correction or resubmission

• A backlog of cases in the county court

An experienced family law attorney can help prevent these delays by ensuring that all documentation is accurate, complete, and submitted properly.

Is a Quick Divorce Right for Me?

A fast divorce can save time, money, and stress, but only if both parties are truly on the same page. If there are hidden assets, domestic violence concerns, or unequal power dynamics, a rushed agreement might not be in your best interest.

Our firm takes the time to understand each client’s goals and concerns. We do not push clients into a fast divorce unless it makes sense for their situation. With our personalized approach, clear price structure, and extensive experience, we guide people through the process efficiently and carefully.

Contact a Cook County, IL Divorce Lawyer

If you are thinking about filing for divorce and want to know how long the process might take, contact a Rolling Meadows, IL divorce attorney at Ann O’Connell Law, Ltd. to schedule a free consultation. We offer reasonable fees, clear pricing, and personalized service so you know what to expect every step of the way. Call us at 847-859-6222 today.