It is impossible to tell how long any particular case will take. The complexity of the issues, the nature of the parties' relationship to one another, the attitude of the opposing attorney, and the availability of the judge, GAL, or other third parties can all affect the length of your case. 

Obviously, the more complicated a case, the more expensive it will be. Illinois law promises divorcing spouses a "level-playing field." 

In other words, if one party has access to all of the finances, the other party can seek fees to help them find legal representation. 

In felony cases, expert witness fees can be obtained from the county. 

The most important step you can take is not to panic. The second most important step you can take is not to speak to your spouse until you have consulted with an attorney. Contrary to many myths about divorce, there is no "race to the courthouse." You do not score points by being the "petitioner" in an Illinois divorce case.

If you have been served with a summons for an order of protection case, your first step should be to immediately contact an attorney who is knowledgable about those types of cases. While orders of protection are civil and not criminal in nature, violating an order of protection may result in prosecution. The first offense is a Class "A"  misdemeanor, which carries up to a year in jail and a fine up to $2,500.00. Supervision is not always available, even for a first time offense, and violations of orders of protection cannot be sealed or expunged.

• We accept cash, check, and all major credit cards. Depending on the case type we may be able to accomodate payments by Zelle, CashApp, or Paypal.

It is never a good idea to speak with the police, the prosecutor, or anyone other than your attorney. A police officer's sole responsibility is to enforce the law. A prosecutor's sole responsibility is to enforce the law. Only your attorney is responsible for your safety and freedom.

Neither the police nor the prosecutors are on your side, even if you are completely innocent. The slightest hesitation or misstatement can be twisted around to make you look guilty. 

You do not have to consent to a search of your vehicle. If the police search your vehicle without  consent and without probable cause, make certain that you verbally object to the search, that you demand to speak to an attorney. Otherwise remain silent, and then tell your attorney right away as soon as you speak to you.