The Effects of COVID-19 on Illinois Divorce Preparations

 Posted on February 10, 2021 in Divorce

Under any circumstances, it is important to thoroughly prepare for the divorce process so that you have a plan to achieve the best possible outcome. In the past year, uncertainty associated with the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic has made preparing for a divorce more difficult, but also more important. If you are looking to end your marriage, you should be aware of the ways in which the ongoing public health emergency can affect both the process and outcome of your divorce.

Important Considerations for Divorce During COVID-19

Almost every major decision related to the divorce process may be impacted in some way by COVID-19. You should carefully consider your needs and preferences related to each of the following as you prepare:

• Divorce resolution methods and communication - In-person proceedings are limited or restricted in many Illinois courts, which means that you may need to anticipate delays in the divorce process, especially if you are resolving your divorce through litigation. If you and your spouse are open to other options, you may be able to help the process move forward by working out an agreement through virtual mediation or settlement conferences.
• Property and asset division - It is always important to go into a divorce with a clear understanding of your finances and assets. During the COVID-19 pandemic, you should be aware that the economic downturn may affect the value of certain properties like real estate, businesses, and investments. If you do not expect to keep your marital home in the divorce, you may also need to consider new housing options that fall within your current financial means.
• Child support and spousal support - Child support and maintenance decisions are influenced by the spouses’ income and employment status. If you have lost your job due to the pandemic, or you are suffering from health complications that affect your ability to work, you should be prepared to discuss your needs and financial limitations during the divorce process so that you can work toward a fair outcome.
• Parenting time and parental responsibilities - Creating a parenting plan that accounts for COVID-19 can be difficult. If possible, you should work with your spouse to create an arrangement that considers the health and safety of your children and other family members, as well as remote learning and work-from-home schedules and routines.

Contact a DuPage County Divorce Lawyer

At Davi Law Group, we strive to help our clients adapt to the ever-changing realities of COVID-19 as they pursue a divorce, and we are available for phone and video consultations to provide qualified legal guidance. For a free initial consultation, contact our Wheaton family law attorneys at 630-657-5052.

Sources:

https://www.dupageco.org/CourtClerk/62632/

https://www.marketwatch.com/story/divorce-during-the-pandemic-is-harder-than-it-already-is-heres-what-you-need-to-know-2020-05-27