Divorce, Parentage, Order of Protection and Estate Filings in Illinois During the COVID-19 Shut-Down

 Posted on April 15, 2020 in Divorce

Courts in Cook County and the surrounding collar counties in Illinois have taken measures in response to Governor Pritzker’s shelter-in-place order in an attempt to enforce social distancing guidelines and help combat the spread of the coronavirus. At this time courts have ceased conducting most regularly scheduled day-to-day activities until at least the end of April. Cook County courts will not resume regular activity through May 15, 2020.

Notwithstanding the above, courts are still accepting new cases as well as filings into pre-existing cases during this time. Some courts, such as Cook County, also have processes in place to take care of routine matters dealing with issues such as Temporary Parenting Time, Temporary Spousal and/or Child Support and Agreed Orders, which can take care of important preliminary issues that move the case towards a final resolution. Additionally, if you have an uncontested matter, meaning that there is a complete agreement between the parties, there is a possibility to have a final judgment entered during this time to resolve the case.

However, with new filings continuing to be made on a daily basis there is a chance for a significant backlog and delay once normal operations resume. It is important if you are considering filing for divorce, parental rights or to open the estate of a recently deceased love one that you act quickly in order to ensure avoiding possible delays.

Separate from non-emergency filings each court has taken steps to outline its handling of emergency situations which require immediate attention, such as Emergency Order of Protection. The courts appreciate these situations and have judges available to hear these without delay.

If you are seeking to begin court proceedings or need assistance in a current matter there is no need to delay, please call the law offices of A. Traub & Associates today for an initial consultation with an experienced family law attorney.