Divorce
When a marriage breaks down and becomes irreparable, a Dissolution (also known as a divorce) case may be opened and proceed through the Champaign County court system. These matters can sometimes be fairly simple, or incredibly complex based on the situation.
Click here to find the most commonly used Dissolution forms.
Do I Need an Attorney to Get a Divorce?
Not necessarily. If you and your spouse have been married less than 8 years and have no children or property, you may be able to use a more simplified form to file. However, it is always advisable to seek legal assistance if you are confused or unsure. Dissolution of a marriage can be a very complicated process, and an attorney can help you avoid costly mistakes.
If you would like to file without an attorney, Illinois Legal Aid online provides a guided interview for divorce without children that can help you prepare your forms for filing.
What is the Cost for Filing for a Divorce?
Because court costs change from time to time, it is best to check our Fee Schedule for current costs.
I Need a Copy of My Divorce Decree. How Do I Obtain One?
You can obtain a copy of your divorce decree by mail or in person. We will need the case number, if you have it. If you do not have the case number we will need the names of both parties at the time of the divorce and the year, or years, you would like us to research. There is a record search fee of $6.00 per year that you would like us to research for your divorce record. The cost for a certified copy of the decree is $10.00. If you plan to request your divorce decree by mail, send your mail request, payment and self-addressed stamped envelope to: Katie M. Blakeman, Circuit Clerk, 101 E. Main Street, Urbana, IL 61801. We accept checks, money orders and cashier’s checks as forms of payment. If you plan to visit our office we are open Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. until 4:30 pm.
I Need to Submit a Financial Affidavit. How Do I Go About That?
Illinois Legal Aid Online provides a guided interview for a financial affidavit that will ask you a series of questions related to this topic and then the program will complete the forms for you. It is free to use.