Can I Use Witnesses in an Illinois Divorce?

 Posted on May 26, 2025 in Divorce

Divorce has a broad spectrum of complexity. In some cases, couples can agree on the terms of divorce, including property division, allocation of parental responsibilities, and spousal support. These couples typically move through the divorce process quickly. However, contested divorce is not uncommon. In these cases, witnesses and outside experts can provide helpful insight for the Court and help resolve disputes. If you have questions about the divorce process, an Illinois divorce attorney can offer legal insight and help you better understand how litigation works.

What Is the Role of Character Witnesses in an Illinois Divorce?

Character witnesses are generally used to testify to your good character. They are often friends, members of your community, or clergy who know you. They can testify about your personality and behavior. For example, a neighbor could discuss arguments they witnessed, or your child’s teacher could attest to each parent’s involvement in the child’s education. Their insight can help the Judge reach a decision about the case, especially regarding matters like child custody. In Illinois, the child’s best interests are the Court’s priority, and witnesses can be an asset in cases involving disputes over allocating parental responsibilities.

When Are Experts Needed in an Illinois Divorce?

Expert witnesses have specific qualifications and provide professional opinions regarding the outcome of the case. Some commonly used experts in an Illinois divorce include:

• Social workers: Social workers will often evaluate children for family law and divorce cases, offering their opinions to the Court about what will serve the child’s best interests.

• Financial experts: The property division process of divorce can be highly complex. Sometimes, appraisers, accountants, real estate professionals, and other financial advisors are used to assess the consequences of certain financial decisions. In some cases, they are needed to search for assets a spouse has hidden to avoid division.

• Vocational experts: A vocational expert will typically assess a spouse’s prospects for employment in a spousal support dispute. They can offer a perspective on how long it may take a spouse to get a job and become financially independent.

• Healthcare professionals: Mental health professionals, such as therapists and psychologists, can provide expert opinions on the mental needs and conditions of parents and children in custody cases. Medical doctors can also offer insight into someone’s condition and how their medical needs may influence the case.

Your circumstances will dictate whether you need expert witnesses to provide testimony or statements in your case. Often, at least one expert is involved. Talk to your attorney about the issues and potential disputes that may arise in your divorce to learn more about the need for experts. They can sometimes be expensive, but it might be more costly in the long run if you navigate the divorce process without their contributions.

Contact a Palatine, IL Divorce Attorney for Free Consultation

If you are considering divorce and have questions about the process, an Arlington Heights, IL divorce lawyer at The Law Office of Nicholas W. Richardson, P.C. can offer insight into legal options and how witnesses may benefit your family. Having an experienced attorney allows you to navigate the divorce process well-informed about your rights and with an understanding of how Illinois law applies to your case. Call 847.873.6741 to schedule your free initial consultation today.