If you are considering divorce and feel concerned that it may be a high-conflict divorce, you may want to speak with a divorce attorney without letting your spouse know. The reasons for this are varied: Perhaps you still live with your spouse and fear retaliation or abuse, or you yourself are unsure of how serious you are about pursuing a divorce. You may want to give yourself the upper hand in preparing for the divorce and serving the papers.
Regardless of the reason, it is perfectly legal to meet with a divorce attorney without telling your spouse. You can even file for divorce without telling your spouse – they do not have to know that you are considering divorce until they are served divorce papers. Here are a few things to keep in mind as you seek a confidential meeting with a divorce attorney.
Speak with More than One Attorney
Although it may feel risky to meet with a divorce attorney without your spouse’s knowledge, you need an attorney who is going to represent your interests in a way that feels comfortable and secure. Even though every attorney-client relationship is legally protected, you may not be a good match with the first attorney you meet. Take time to find a firm that listens to your needs and is willing to advocate aggressively on your behalf. Meet in a safe, discrete manner
Gone are the days when people had to meet in person or use a family phone line that anyone could answer. Today, there are several options for meeting and discussing your case in a confidential manner. When you set up a consultation with Botti Marinaccio, LTD, our helpful team can discuss the best way for you to meet – either by phone, in person, or over a video chat service such as Zoom.
Consider an Order of Protection
If you are worried that your spouse may engage in further abuse if he or she finds out that you have spoken with an attorney, you can file for a court order of protection. An order of protection can be obtained immediately and may prohibit an abuser from living in the marital home or contacting you and your child.
Contact a Cook County Divorce Attorney
If you are considering leaving your marriage and anticipate a high-conflict divorce, contact a Burr Ridge divorce attorney with the law office of Botti Marinaccio, LTD. We specialize in outstanding client service and can meet your needs with privacy and discretion. Contact us today at 630-575-8585 for a confidential consultation.
Source:
https://www.ilga.gov/legislation/ilcs/ilcs4.asp?DocName=075000050HPt%2E+IV&ActID=2086&ChapterID=59&SeqStart=3900000&SeqEnd=5400000
https://illinoisattorneygeneral.gov/women/ordersofprotection.html