When most couples prepare for divorce, they anticipate disagreements over major issues like child custody or dividing their assets. But in many cases, the most frustrating complications are a result of smaller, overlooked details. These seemingly minor issues can lead to long delays, additional expenses, and ongoing arguments long after the divorce is finalized.
Throughout Illinois, spouses often ask what pitfalls to watch for as they navigate the process. These ten small factors, if not carefully addressed, have the potential to cause significant problems. Our Elmhurst, IL divorce attorneys can take a close look at your marriage and help you discover which of these need attention.
Marital Debt
Many couples focus on dividing assets like homes and retirement accounts but do not think about how debts will be divided unless debt has been a major source of conflict during the marriage. Under Illinois divorce law (750 ILCS 5), most debts that are borrowed during the marriage are considered marital debt, even if the account is in only one spouse’s name. That includes credit card balances, car loans, medical bills, and even personal loans like student loans or payday loans.