Do You Gain by Filing First?

No.

I have never in my 30 plus years in the divorce practice seen a situation where any benefit was derived by the party that filed for divorce first just because he or she was the first to file. (This does not apply, however, in situations where the parties have a choice of counties in which to bring the case and the filing party has a preference regarding this issue.)*

Divorce lawyers and judges deem the act of filing first to be totally meaningless. No strategy or better positioning is gained or accomplished by virtue of being the first party to file. No bias or prejudice, whatsoever, is drawn regarding the guilt or innocence of the party against whom the case was filed nor are any presumptions or conclusions drawn or made regarding the validity or invalidity of the action.

*Generally, in Illinois, a divorce case may be filed in the county in which either spouse resides at the time of filing.

Visa and MasterCard Accepted

This website contains legal information, and not legal advice.
Its content refers only to the law of the State of Illinois.

Gender Neutral Notice

All contact information is received with the utmost respect, privacy and discretion. E-mail communication is limited to the scheduling of consultations. Prospective clients are guaranteed absolute confidentiality.

The Law Offices of J. Richard Kulerski, P.C.
1200 Harger Rd. Suite 320,
Oak Brook, IL 60523
(630) 928-0600 fax (630) 928-0670

© Copyright 1999-2003 J. Richard Kulerski, P.C.  All rights reserved.
This site is protected by copyright and trademark laws under U.S. and International Law.

top of page