Question 1

What types of cases do you handle?

Accepted Answer

We handle divorce, allocation of parental responsibilities (custody), parenting time disputes, child support, spousal maintenance, prenuptial and postnuptial agreements, and Orders of Protection.
We focus on resolving cases efficiently while maintaining a clear litigation strategy when necessary.

Question 2

Do I need a lawyer to file for divorce in Illinois?

Accepted Answer

No. You have the option to represent yourself.

However, involving an attorney early allows for strategic positioning before unnecessary escalation occurs. Initial filings, financial disclosures, and parenting proposals often shape the direction of the case. Early structure reduces the need for corrective litigation later.

Question 3

Can my spouse and I use the same attorney?

Accepted Answer

No.

An attorney can only represent one party. Even in amicable cases, each party should understand that the attorney represents only one side.

Question 4

How long will my case take?

Accepted Answer

Timelines depend on the complexity of the case, the level of conflict, and the financial issues involved.

Uncontested cases are largely driven by the court’s schedule. Contested matters—particularly those involving parenting disputes or complex assets—can take a year or longer.

No attorney controls the court’s calendar. However, early organization, complete financial disclosure, and a disciplined approach can significantly reduce unnecessary delay.

Question 5

How much will my case cost?

Accepted Answer

Fees depend on the complexity of the case and the level of conflict involved.

You will receive a clear engagement agreement outlining billing structure and expectations from the outset.

The objective is straightforward: move the case forward efficiently while minimizing unnecessary cost.

Question 6

Will I have to go to court?

Accepted Answer

Not necessarily.

Many cases resolve through negotiation, mediation, or settlement conferences. However, court appearances may be required at various stages, and some cases ultimately proceed to trial.
In Cook County, many routine appearances are conducted via Zoom. If your case proceeds to trial, you should expect to appear in person.

Question 7

What is “allocation of parental responsibilities”?

Accepted Answer

Illinois no longer uses the term “custody.”

The court allocates:
Decision-making responsibility (major decisions for the child)
Parenting time (the schedule)

All decisions are made based on the best interests of the child.

Question 8

How is property divided?

Accepted Answer

Illinois follows an equitable distribution framework.

Marital property is divided equitably—not necessarily equally—based on the statutory factors set forth in 750 ILCS 5/503, including each party’s contributions, the duration of the marriage, and the parties’ respective economic circumstances.

Question 9

What is mediation?

Accepted Answer

Mediation is a structured negotiation process with a neutral third party.

Some counties require mediation for parenting issues before trial. It can be an effective way to resolve disputes without prolonged litigation.

Question 10

What should I do before filing for divorce?

Accepted Answer

At a minimum:
Gather financial documents if you have access to them (bank statements, tax returns, retirement accounts)
Avoid major financial changes without legal guidance
Do not rely on informal agreements

Early decisions often shape the direction of the case. Online information is not a substitute for legal advice—consult with an attorney before taking action.

Question 11

What happens with debts?

Accepted Answer

Marital debt is allocated between the parties, similar to assets.

The court considers who incurred the debt, for what purpose, and whether the spending was reasonable.

Question 12

What makes LaRocque Law different?

Accepted Answer

We are built around structure, not reaction.Most family law cases do not become difficult because of complexity—they become difficult because they lack structure.From the outset, we organize, position, and advance each case with a clear objective. Unnecessary conflict is avoided, but not at the expense of outcome.The result is a process that is controlled, efficient, and aligned with long-term interests—not short-term reactions.

Question 13

How do I get started?

Accepted Answer

You can schedule a consultation to discuss your situation, your goals, and the available legal options.
From there, we'll outline a clear path forward.

Link to schedule a call:
 https://calendly.com/rebecca-larocque-law/new-client-intro-call-15-minutes

Question 14

What should I bring to my first consultation?

Accepted Answer

Bring any court orders, recent financial records, pay stubs, tax returns, messages about the dispute, and a short timeline of what happened. If children are involved, bring school, medical, and parenting schedule information too.