Wheaton, IL Divorce Lawyers

Supportive Divorce Attorneys Representing Clients in Wheaton, Illinois

Every divorce comes with its own unique hurdles to overcome, whether financial or emotional in nature. Reaching a favorable outcome in your final divorce decree requires careful planning and negotiation, but even in the most amicable cases, it can be difficult to determine the best course of action. To safeguard your rights, consider reaching out to a Wheaton divorce attorney.

At Fay & Farrow, we are deeply entrenched as one of the longest-standing family law firms in DuPage County. We have the legal skills and resources to help you through a myriad of issues, approaching each case with a highly individualized strategy.

Should I Settle My Divorce Outside of Court?

Many couples in Wheaton, Illinois choose to negotiate a settlement rather than proceed to trial. Settling outside of court often reduces emotional strain, lowers legal fees, and allows spouses to craft solutions tailored to their unique circumstances. Through mediation or collaborative law, you and your spouse can work with neutral professionals who guide discussions and help resolve disputes over property, support, and parenting.

However, not every case is suited to out‐of‐court resolution. If one spouse refuses to negotiate in good faith, conceals financial information, or if there are allegations of domestic violence, formal litigation may be the safer route. An attorney at our firm can assess your situation and recommend whether a settlement approach or court action best protects your rights and interests.

What Assets Will Have to Be Divided in an Illinois Divorce?

In an Illinois divorce, marital property encompasses assets and debts acquired during marriage. Nonmarital property—such as inheritances or gifts received by one spouse—typically remains with its original owner. Common categories of marital assets include:

• Bank accounts, investment portfolios, and retirement plans
• Real estate holdings, including primary residences and rental properties
• Business interests and professional practices, which may require valuation experts
• Personal property, from vehicles and artwork to household goods

Identifying and valuing these assets requires careful documentation and, in complex cases, the assistance of forensic accountants or valuation specialists. Proper disclosure under Illinois law ensures that all marital holdings are accounted for, enabling fair negotiations or judicial determinations.

Is Joint Custody or Sole Custody More Appropriate for My Divorce?

Joint custody means that both parents share the core responsibilities of raising their child. Under this arrangement, decision-making responsibility is shared, so both parents have input in major choices about schooling, medical care, and religious upbringing. Parenting time is divided according to a schedule that reflects each family's needs, ensuring the child maintains strong relationships with both parents. This cooperative framework often helps children adjust more smoothly by preserving stability and consistency.

Sole custody, by contrast, awards decision-making responsibility to just one parent. That parent makes the big-picture decisions, while the other parent may still receive parenting time but does not participate in those major choices. Courts will only grant sole custody when joint custody would place the child at risk, such as in cases involving abuse, neglect, or a demonstrated inability to cooperate. The court may also prohibit the other parent from exercising rights to parenting time if it would go against the child's best interests.

When parents cannot agree on custody arrangements, the court evaluates the child's best interests by considering factors like each parent's willingness to communicate, the child's ties to home and community, and any safety concerns. Our firm can help you gather evidence for a proposed parenting plan that promotes a healthy upbringing and a stable family environment.

Contact a Wheaton, IL Divorce Attorney

At Fay & Farrow, our Wheaton attorneys have deep insights into Illinois divorce law. We will listen to your goals, explain procedural requirements, and develop a strategy designed to protect your interests. From negotiating settlements to advocating in court, we stand by your side with clear communication and dedicated support. Call 630-961-0060 or contact our Wheaton, Illinois divorce attorneys to set up a free consultation.