Larimer Law LLC

09/04/2026

Does it matter who files for divorce first in Illinois?

Being the first person to file doesn't automatically give you an advantage when it comes to property, parenting time, child support or the final outcome of the divorce.
But timing can still matter strategically.

Filing first may affect when the case begins, when certain requests can be brought before the court and how prepared you are when the process starts.

The better question usually isn't:
“How do I beat my spouse to the courthouse?”
It's:
“Am I prepared to file?”

Considering divorce? Larimer Law can help you understand what to consider before deciding when — or whether — to file.

09/02/2026

Your spouse says:
“I want a divorce. You need to move out.”
Do you?
Not simply because your spouse told you to.

Who can remain in the marital home — and whether leaving is a good idea — can depend on the circumstances.

Before moving out because you feel pressured to make an immediate decision, understand your legal options and consider the practical impact on finances, children and the divorce process.

There are also situations involving safety or court orders where different considerations apply.
The important part?

Don't make a major decision just because the other person gave you a deadline.
If you're considering separation or divorce in Illinois, talk with Larimer Law before making decisions that may affect what happens next.

09/01/2026

Thinking about divorce and wondering whether you should move out first?
It may seem like the easiest way to reduce conflict at home, but moving out can create practical questions about finances, parenting arrangements, access to the home and what happens next.

There isn't one answer that's right for every Illinois divorce.

Before packing your bags, understand what moving out could mean for your specific situation.

Read this week's blog: Should I Move Out of the House Before Filing for Divorce in Illinois?

08/27/2026

Mediation vs. litigation isn't about who's "right" — it's about which process fits your specific situation, especially when kids are involved. This week's post compares the two head-to-head: what each actually costs, how long each typically takes, and who makes the final call.

08/25/2026

One of the most common early questions in a divorce consultation: "Do we have to go to court?" Not necessarily. Mediation is often overlooked as a viable path, particularly in lower-conflict cases. New post compares mediation and litigation on cost, timeline, and control over the outcome.

https://lnkd.in/gScApTX9

08/24/2026

Not every divorce needs to go to court. Mediation can be faster, less expensive, and less adversarial — but it's not the right fit for every situation. We break down the real differences in cost, timeline, and how much control you keep over the outcome.

The blog on Mediation vs. litigation posts tomorrow!

08/19/2026

True or False: An Order of Protection case moves on the same timeline as a divorce case?

False.

Divorce cases and Orders of Protection serve different purposes — and Illinois law treats their timelines differently.

A divorce case may take months as issues involving property, finances, parenting time, and other matters are addressed.

An **Emergency Order of Protection**, however, may be granted the same day when the court determines there is an immediate safety concern.

That distinction matters. Someone going through a divorce does not necessarily have to wait for the divorce case to progress before seeking protection.

Different processes. Different timelines. Different purposes.

Learn more about Orders of Protection during divorce on the Larimer Law blog.

📞 773.902.0200
Serving the Chicagoland Area

*This post is for general informational purposes and is not legal advice.*

08/18/2026

When safety is at risk during divorce, Orders of Protection offer a legal path that moves faster than the divorce process. Our latest blog outlines what Illinois law allows, how an order works alongside divorce proceedings, and what protections you can expect.

Learn more: https://wix.to/uBb9vTR

Divorce is difficult enough on its own, but for some families, safety is an immediate concern — not just a long-term one. If you or your children are dealing with threats, harassment, or physical harm from a spouse, Illinois law gives you a way to seek protection that moves faster, and works diffe...

08/17/2026

There are a lot of misconceptions about Orders of Protection in Illinois — especially when divorce is involved.

Two important things to know:

❌ You **do not** have to wait until a divorce is filed to request an Order of Protection.

❌ Orders of Protection aren't limited to physical violence. Depending on the circumstances, they may address harassment, intimidation, threats, exclusive possession of the home, temporary parenting arrangements, and more.

Understanding what the law actually allows can be especially important when you're already navigating a difficult family situation.

Learn more about Orders of Protection during divorce and how Illinois law applies:
larimerlawllc.com

📞 773.902.0200

*This post is for general informational purposes and is not legal advice.*

08/12/2026

Thinking about divorce and wondering if you'll pay — or receive — spousal maintenance? Illinois uses a statutory formula based on both spouses' incomes and the length of the marriage. It's not automatic, and it's not permanent in most cases. Here's how it actually works.

https://www.larimerlawllc.com/post/spousal-maintenance-alimony-in-illinois-how-it-s-calculated-and-who-qualifies