Q: How do I file for my own dissolution of marriage/civil union?
A: A packet of dissolution forms is available at the Domestic Relations Division front counter upon request. A petitioner seeking to file their own dissolution without the help of an attorney can fill out these forms and self-draft a Petition for Dissolution.
Once the forms and attachments are completed, the petitioner will receive a case number and judge (Calendar) assignment. Court dates can be set up at the motion counter in the Domestic Relations Division. At a later date, if there has been no activity on the case, you will receive a white postcard in the mail notifying you of a status court date. Should you fail to appear, you could risk your case being dismissed.
Q: What if I cannot afford an attorney?
A: If you cannot afford an attorney, you can find a lawyer's group that will represent you for no fee or a reduced fee. The Clerk's Office can provide you with a list of Lawyer Referral Services. That information is available in Room 802 of the Richard J. Daley Center or online (Finding an Attorney).
You can also submit an application and affidavit to sue or defend as an indigent person, also known as the "298 Petition." You may qualify to proceed as a pro se litigant (self representing litigant) without having to pay any fees. This form is available in Room 802 of the Richard J. Daley Center.
Q: How does a person join the child support enforcement program?
A: You may request an application for the child support enforcement program service, also called the IV-D (4-D) program, by calling the Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services (HFS) at (800) 447-4278. If you have an existing child support pay order, you may call the Clerk of the Circuit Court’s Child Support Division at (312) 345-4188, Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Q: Who is responsible for the tax intercept letter that I receive every October?
A: If you have questions regarding this matter, please contact the Illinois Department of Healthcare & Family Services (HFS) at (800) 447-4278.
Q: Why do I receive a bill for $36.00 every year?
A: The State of Illinois requires all Clerks of the Circuit Courts to collect a fee of $36 ($3 each month) for processing services associated with child support.
View All Domestic Relations Division Frequently Asked Questions