Chicago High-Conflict Divorce Attorney

Chicago Divorce Lawyer for Contested Divorces in Chicago, IL and Surrounding Areas

Conflict is an inherent part of a divorce, especially considering that irreconcilable differences in the marriage are a legal requirement for ending it. This conflict does not necessarily have to spill over into the legal process of getting a divorce, and many couples are able to reach an amicable settlement despite their differences. However, certain kinds of high-conflict situations tend to make the divorce process more difficult.

If you are expecting excessive conflict with your spouse throughout your divorce, you need an attorney who can help you protect your interests and navigate the hostility. At The Law Office of George J. Skuros, we never try to exacerbate the conflict in a divorce, but with over 30 years of litigation experience, we have the skills to assertively represent your interests and withstand the stresses and challenges that a high-conflict divorce often brings.

Common Issues in a High-Conflict Divorce

The worst effects of conflict in a divorce can often be avoided when couples are able to find common ground and work toward a cooperative resolution. However, some sources of conflict can make doing so very difficult or impossible. Some of the issues that may lead to a high-conflict divorce include:

• Cheating and infidelity - In Illinois, adultery is not a legally recognized grounds for divorce now as it was in the past, and the court will not "punish" a spouse for infidelity in decisions regarding property division, spousal support, or the allocation of parental responsibilities. However, cheating can create a situation in which spouses want to punish each other, making it harder to communicate and negotiate in good faith and trust.
• Conflicts over property and assets - The division of marital property is always challenging when both spouses have strong feelings regarding ownership of certain assets. Dissipating, destroying, or hiding marital assets can make these decisions even more contentious, often requiring the court's intervention.
• Domestic violence - Abuse, harassment, and other violent behavior between spouses or directed toward children is an extremely serious problem. Communication and negotiation between spouses may put one or both of them in danger, so these cases are typically best resolved through litigation. Orders of protection and restrictions on parenting time and parental responsibilities may also be necessary to protect victims of abuse.
• Substance abuse and mental illness - A spouse's addiction or other mental health problems can make it more difficult for them to engage in negotiations. The mental health of each party is also a factor that can influence almost all of the major decisions included in the divorce resolution, from financial support to parental responsibilities.

Effects of Conflict on the Illinois Divorce Process

Even in a high-conflict divorce, there may be some issues that spouses can agree on. Mediation can sometimes help spouses reach an acceptable compromise, and negotiation in writing or between the parties' attorneys can work to resolve some conflicts without requiring face-to-face communication between spouses. We will advise you on all reasonable options that may make the divorce process more manageable.

However, it is also a good idea to prepare for the likelihood that your divorce will have to be resolved through a trial. This process can last many months, during which you may find yourself under intense stress and scrutiny. We will make sure you know what to expect from start to finish, and we will help you gather and present the evidence and testimony you need to make the strongest possible case for an outcome that protects your interests.

Contact a Park Ridge Divorce Attorney

Having an experienced attorney on your side throughout your high-conflict divorce can make the process more bearable. We can work with you to prepare and navigate all of the challenges you may encounter, starting with a free consultation when you contact us at 312-884-1222. We represent clients in Park Ridge, Chicago, the North Shore, Des Plaines, Mount Prospect, Schaumburg, Arlington Heights, Inverness, and throughout Cook County and the surrounding areas.