Domestic violence can have a significant impact on divorce issues, including the allocation of parental responsibilities and parenting time. Since Illinois is a no-fault state, this can be one small benefit for those who have suffered domestic violence during their marriages. This umbrella term covers virtually any reason for a divorce, saving domestic violence victims from having to speak about domestic violence in court – in front of their abusers.
Domestic violence can occur between married couples, dating couples, couples who were once married or dating, parents, stepparents, children, siblings, stepsiblings, individuals who have a child or children together, and individuals who are sharing a home or once shared a home. Divorce would only include married couples, while parenting time issues could include unmarried parents as well.