Understanding “Irreconcilable Differences”: Illinois’ Shift to a True No-Fault Divorce System
Illinois divorce law has undergone a profound transformation in the past decade. With the adoption of a purely no-fault divorce framework under the 750 ILCS 5/401(a), Illinois completely eliminated traditional fault-based grounds for dissolution. This means that divorcing spouses no longer need to prove adultery, cruelty, or abandonment — only that “irreconcilable differences” have caused an irretrievable breakdown of the marriage.
Background: From Fault to No-Fault