IL divorce lawyerDid you know that over half of all marriages in the world are arranged marriages? An arranged marriage is a marriage that is set up by the spouses’ respective family members or a matchmaker. Arranged marriages are most common in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa. However, individuals living in the United States may also enter into arranged marriages.

The overall U.S. divorce rate hovers around 40-50 percent. However, only about four percent of arranged marriages end in divorce. Some argue that the low divorce rate is a product of excellent matchmaking skills, while others cite cultural norms that encourage spouses to stay together and work out their differences.

If you or a loved one are in an arranged marriage and considering divorce, it is important to know what to expect. The divorce procedure for arranged marriages in Illinois is the same as the divorce procedure for self-selected marriages. However, many divorcing spouses in this situation may encounter personal, legal, financial, and familial challenges when dissolving an arranged marriage.

Dissolution of an Arranged Marriage in DuPage County, Illinois

In Illinois, couples in an arranged marriage must follow the same divorce process as any other couple. This usually begins with filing a petition for dissolution of marriage in the Circuit Court of the county where either party resides. Either spouse may initiate the divorce. After a spouse files the petition, the court will issue a summons that informs the other spouse that a divorce has been filed and requires them to appear in court.

The process of negotiating the terms of your settlement agreement can be difficult, especially when spouses are from different backgrounds or cultures. DuPage County courts may refer couples to mediation services so they can discuss their differences and come to an agreement without having to go through a lengthy court battle. The spouses may also be able to negotiate an agreement on the relevant divorce issues with help from their respective attorneys.

Divorcing spouses may need to address:

  • Property division – The spouses’ marital assets and debts will be divided between the spouses. If a valid prenuptial agreement exists, assets and debts will be divided according to the provision in the agreement.
  • Child custody – DuPage County courts prioritize the best interests of the children, and both spouses will likely share parental responsibilities and parenting time.
  • Spousal support/maintenance – One spouse may be entitled to receive support payments from the other spouse, especially if one spouse was the primary breadwinner and the other spouse was a homemaker or stay-at-home parent.

Contact a DuPage County Divorce Lawyer for Arranged Marriages

If you are ending an arranged marriage, you need a divorce lawyer who understands the unique challenges that come with dissolving an arranged marriage and is sensitive to your needs. The knowledgeable Hinsdale arranged marriage divorce lawyers at Law Office of Martoccio & Martoccio can provide personalized legal guidance throughout your divorce. We know that there are additional cultural and family-related concerns to be considerate of when dissolving an arranged marriage and we are committed to providing compassionate, skillful representation.

Call our office at 630-920-8855 for a free consultation.

 

Sources:

https://www.nbcnews.com/better/pop-culture/why-you-should-treat-marriage-more-business-ncna778551