How is property divided in Carroll County divorces?

Illinois follows equitable distribution rules. The court divides marital property fairly based on various factors including marriage length, contributions, and financial circumstances. Carroll County Circuit Court applies Illinois law to property division.

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Carroll County Divorce Guide: Filing in Mt. Carroll, Illinois

Q: How much does divorce cost in Carroll County?

Filing fees in Illinois vary by county. Uncontested divorces using online services cost $500-$2,000 plus filing fees. Attorney-handled divorces range from $2,000-$6,000 for uncontested cases to $10,000-$50,000+ for contested cases in Carroll County.

Q: Do I need a lawyer to get divorced in Carroll County?

No, Illinois allows self-representation in divorce cases. However, attorney representation is recommended for contested custody, significant assets, or business ownership. Simple uncontested divorces in Carroll County often work well with online service assistance.

Q: Can I file for divorce in Carroll County if my spouse lives elsewhere?

Yes, as long as you meet Illinois's residency requirement of 90 days, you can file for divorce in Carroll County even if your spouse lives in another county or out of state.

Carroll County handles divorce cases through the Circuit Court. Whether you live in Mt. Carroll or another Carroll County community, this guide provides everything you need to know about filing for divorce in Carroll County.

Carroll County Divorce at a Glance

County: Carroll County
Primary City: Mt. Carroll, Illinois
Court Type: Circuit Court
Residency Requirement: 90 days
Waiting Period: 6 months for irreconcilable differences

What Makes Carroll County Unique

Every county in Illinois follows the same state divorce laws, but Carroll County has specific local procedures, filing requirements, and resources that affect your divorce process.

Local Court Procedures

Carroll County's Circuit Court has established local rules that govern how divorces proceed. These include specific document formatting requirements, filing deadlines, and hearing schedules that differ from other Illinois countys.

Filing Requirements

The Clerk of Courts in Carroll County has specific requirements for document submission, fee payments, and case processing. Understanding these requirements before filing prevents delays and rejected paperwork.

Community Resources

Carroll County offers various divorce-related resources including mediation services, self-help centers, and legal aid programs. Availability and eligibility vary by county.

Carroll County Court Filing Fees

Divorce Petition: Filing fees in Illinois vary by county. Contact the Carroll County Clerk of Courts for current exact fees.

Typical Illinois Filing Fees: $75-$450 depending on county

Additional Costs:

Service of process: $40-$150
Certified copies: $1-$5 per page
Motion filing fees: $25-$100 each

Payment Methods:
Most Illinois courts accept cash, check, money order, and credit/debit cards. Some countys charge a processing fee for card payments.

Attorney Costs in Carroll County

Attorney fees in Carroll County vary based on experience, case complexity, and whether your divorce is contested.

Hourly Rates:

Entry-level attorneys: $150-$275/hour
Experienced attorneys: $275-$400/hour
Senior attorneys: $400-$500/hour

Average Total Costs:

Simple uncontested: $1,500-$4,000
Contested divorce: $8,000-$30,000+
High-conflict cases: $30,000-$60,000+

Retainer Requirements:

Uncontested: $1,500-$3,000
Contested: $5,000-$15,000+

These are typical ranges for Illinois attorneys. Actual costs in Carroll County depend on your specific situation.

How to File for Divorce in Carroll County

Step 1: Verify Residency

You or your spouse must meet Illinois's residency requirement: 90 days

Step 2: Gather Documents

Marriage certificate (certified copy)
Financial records (pay stubs, tax returns, bank statements)
Property records
Debt information
Children's information (if applicable)

Step 3: Complete Divorce Forms

Illinois requires specific forms for divorce petitions. Carroll County may have additional local forms.

Required documents typically include:

Petition/Complaint for Divorce
Financial affidavits
Child custody forms (if applicable)
Settlement agreement (if uncontested)

Step 4: File with the Court

Submit your completed forms to the Carroll County Clerk of Courts along with the filing fee. Many Illinois countys now offer electronic filing options.

Step 5: Serve Your Spouse

After filing, your spouse must be served with divorce papers according to Illinois law. Service options include:

Sheriff's department
Private process server
Certified mail (if spouse agrees)

Step 6: Complete Mandatory Requirements

Illinois may require:

Parenting classes (if children involved)
Financial disclosures
Mediation attempts
Waiting period: 6 months for irreconcilable differences

Step 7: Finalize Your Divorce

For uncontested cases, a brief hearing may be required. Contested cases involve negotiations, possible trial, and final judgment.

Carroll County Divorce Timeline

Uncontested Divorce (Both Agree):

Minimum: 6 months for irreconcilable differences (state-mandated waiting period)
Typical: 2-4 months from filing to final decree
Best case: 6-10 weeks with all paperwork perfect

Contested Divorce (Disputes to Resolve):

Minor disagreements: 4-8 months
Significant disputes: 8-14 months
Trial required: 12-24 months

Timelines depend on court calendar availability in Carroll County, case complexity, and how quickly both parties respond to requests.

Carroll County Circuit Court

Carroll County's divorce cases are handled by the Circuit Court. The court manages all aspects of family law including divorce, custody, support, and property division.

Court Functions:

Process divorce petitions
Conduct hearings and trials
Issue temporary orders
Approve settlement agreements
Enter final divorce decrees

Court Staff:
The Clerk of Courts office handles all filing, fee collection, and record keeping for Carroll County divorce cases.

Illinois Divorce Court Locator

Carroll County Family and Divorce Courts

Court Name:

8th Judicial Circuit Court

Court Address:

8 S Main

Carrollton,

64633

Phone:

660-542-1466

Fax:

660-542-1444

Clerk Hours:

8:30am-4:30pm

Clerks:

Cheryl A. Mansur

Court Name:

15th Judicial Circuit Court

Court Address:

301 N Main, P.O. Box 229

Mt. Carroll,

61053

Phone:

815-244-0230

Fax:

815-244-3869

Clerk Hours:

8:30am-4:30pm

Website:

http://www.carroll-county.net/

Clerks:

Sherri A. Miller

Court Name:

19th East Judicial Circuit

Court Address:

210 W Church Ave

Berryville,

72616

Phone:

870)423-2422

Fax:

870-423-4796

Clerk Hours:

8am-4:30pm

Website:

http://co.carroll.ar.us/

Clerks:

Ramona Wilson

Court Name:

Carroll County Trial Court

Court Address:

101 W Main

Delphi,

46923

Phone:

(765) 564-4485

Fax:

(765) 564-1835

Website:

http://www.carrollcountyindiana.com/

Clerks:

Andrea Miller

Court Name:

Caroll County Court of Common Pleas, Domestic Relations Div.

Court Address:

119 South Lisbon Street, Suite 400 P.O. Box 367

Carrollton,

44615

Phone:

(330) 627-4886

Fax:

(330) 627-6437

Clerk Hours:

8am-4pm

Website:

http://carrollcountyohio.us/

Clerks:

William R. Wohlwend (Bill)

Court Name:

Carroll Circuit Court

Court Address:

605 Pine Street

Hillsville,

24343-0218

Phone:

276-730-3070

Fax:

276-730-3071

Clerk Hours:

8am-5pm

Website:

http://carrollcountyva.gov/

Clerks:

Janice D. Jessup

Court Name:

Carroll County Superior Court

Court Address:

96 Water Village Road - Box 3

Ossipee,

03864

Phone:

855-212-1234

Clerk Hours:

8am-4pm

Website:

https://www.carrollcountynh.net/

Clerks:

Abigail Albee

Court Name:

Carroll County Superior Court

Court Address:

323 Newnan St.

Carrollton,

30117

Phone:

(770) 830 5830

Fax:

(770) 214 3584

Clerk Hours:

8am-5pm

Website:

https://www.carrollcountyga.com/

Judges:

A. Quillian Baldwin, Jr. Dennis T. Blackmon William Hamrick Jack Kirby Emory Palmer W. Travis Sakrison John T. Simpson

Clerks:

Alan J Lee

Court Name:

Carroll County Circuit Court

Court Address:

99 Court Square, Suite 103

Huntingdon,

38344

Phone:

731-986-1932

Fax:

731 986-1926

Clerk Hours:

8:00am - 4:30pm

Website:

https://carrollcountytn.gov/

Judges:

Charles Creed McGinley, Donald E. Parish, Larry J. Logan, Marsha W. Johns, Matthew M. Maddox, Dwayne D. Maddox, Laura A. Keeton

Clerks:

Bertha Taylor

Court Name:

Carroll County Circuit Court

Court Address:

55 N. Court Street

Westminster,

21157

Phone:

(410) 386 8710

Fax:

(888) 786 0039

Clerk Hours:

8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m

Website:

http://www.carr.org/

Judges:

Michael M. Galloway J. Barry Hughes Thomas F. Stansfield Fred S. Hecker

Clerks:

Donald B. Sealing II

Court Name:

Carroll County District Court

Court Address:

114 East Sixth Street, Ste. 5

Carroll,

51401

Phone:

(712) 792 4327

Fax:

(712) 792 0016

Clerk Hours:

8am-4:30pm

Website:

http://www.co.carroll.ia.us/

Judges:

Kurt L. Wilke, Thomas J. Bice, James C. Ellefson, Timothy J. Finn, John J. Haney , James A. McGlynn, Gary L. McMinimee, Michael J. Moon, Steven J. Oeth, William C. Ostlund, Kurt J. Stoebe, Paul B. Ahlers, Angela L. Doyle, Lawrence E. Jahn, Adria Kester, James B. Malloy, Stephen A. Owen, Kim Riley, Steven P. Van Marel

Clerks:

Linda Frank

Court Name:

Carroll County Chancery Court

Court Address:

P.O. Box 60

Carrollton,

38917

Phone:

662-237-9274

Fax:

662-237-9642

Judges:

Joseph Kilgore, Edward Fenwick

Clerks:

Stanley "Sugar" Mullins

Court Name:

Carroll County Circuit Court

Court Address:

802 Clay Street

Carrollton,

41008

Phone:

502-732-4305

Fax:

502-732-8138

Clerk Hours:

8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.

Website:

http://www.carrollcountygov.us/

Judges:

R. Leslie Knight

Clerks:

Laman L. Stark

Parking:

Parking lots are located beside and behind the judicial center.

Illinois Divorce Court Locator

Carroll County Family and Divorce Courts

Court Name:

8th Judicial Circuit Court

Court Address:

8 S Main

Carrollton,

64633

Phone:

660-542-1466

Fax:

660-542-1444

Clerk Hours:

8:30am-4:30pm

Clerks:

Cheryl A. Mansur

Court Name:

15th Judicial Circuit Court

Court Address:

301 N Main, P.O. Box 229

Mt. Carroll,

61053

Phone:

815-244-0230

Fax:

815-244-3869

Clerk Hours:

8:30am-4:30pm

Website:

http://www.carroll-county.net/

Clerks:

Sherri A. Miller

Court Name:

19th East Judicial Circuit

Court Address:

210 W Church Ave

Berryville,

72616

Phone:

870)423-2422

Fax:

870-423-4796

Clerk Hours:

8am-4:30pm

Website:

http://co.carroll.ar.us/

Clerks:

Ramona Wilson

Court Name:

Carroll County Trial Court

Court Address:

101 W Main

Delphi,

46923

Phone:

(765) 564-4485

Fax:

(765) 564-1835

Website:

http://www.carrollcountyindiana.com/

Clerks:

Andrea Miller

Court Name:

Caroll County Court of Common Pleas, Domestic Relations Div.

Court Address:

119 South Lisbon Street, Suite 400 P.O. Box 367

Carrollton,

44615

Phone:

(330) 627-4886

Fax:

(330) 627-6437

Clerk Hours:

8am-4pm

Website:

http://carrollcountyohio.us/

Clerks:

William R. Wohlwend (Bill)

Court Name:

Carroll Circuit Court

Court Address:

605 Pine Street

Hillsville,

24343-0218

Phone:

276-730-3070

Fax:

276-730-3071

Clerk Hours:

8am-5pm

Website:

http://carrollcountyva.gov/

Clerks:

Janice D. Jessup

Court Name:

Carroll County Superior Court

Court Address:

96 Water Village Road - Box 3

Ossipee,

03864

Phone:

855-212-1234

Clerk Hours:

8am-4pm

Website:

https://www.carrollcountynh.net/

Clerks:

Abigail Albee

Court Name:

Carroll County Superior Court

Court Address:

323 Newnan St.

Carrollton,

30117

Phone:

(770) 830 5830

Fax:

(770) 214 3584

Clerk Hours:

8am-5pm

Website:

https://www.carrollcountyga.com/

Judges:

A. Quillian Baldwin, Jr. Dennis T. Blackmon William Hamrick Jack Kirby Emory Palmer W. Travis Sakrison John T. Simpson

Clerks:

Alan J Lee

Court Name:

Carroll County Circuit Court

Court Address:

99 Court Square, Suite 103

Huntingdon,

38344

Phone:

731-986-1932

Fax:

731 986-1926

Clerk Hours:

8:00am - 4:30pm

Website:

https://carrollcountytn.gov/

Judges:

Charles Creed McGinley, Donald E. Parish, Larry J. Logan, Marsha W. Johns, Matthew M. Maddox, Dwayne D. Maddox, Laura A. Keeton

Clerks:

Bertha Taylor

Court Name:

Carroll County Circuit Court

Court Address:

55 N. Court Street

Westminster,

21157

Phone:

(410) 386 8710

Fax:

(888) 786 0039

Clerk Hours:

8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m

Website:

http://www.carr.org/

Judges:

Michael M. Galloway J. Barry Hughes Thomas F. Stansfield Fred S. Hecker

Clerks:

Donald B. Sealing II

Court Name:

Carroll County District Court

Court Address:

114 East Sixth Street, Ste. 5

Carroll,

51401

Phone:

(712) 792 4327

Fax:

(712) 792 0016

Clerk Hours:

8am-4:30pm

Website:

http://www.co.carroll.ia.us/

Judges:

Clerks:

Linda Frank

Court Name:

Carroll County Chancery Court

Court Address:

P.O. Box 60

Carrollton,

38917

Phone:

662-237-9274

Fax:

662-237-9642

Judges:

Joseph Kilgore, Edward Fenwick

Clerks:

Stanley "Sugar" Mullins

Court Name:

Carroll County Circuit Court

Court Address:

802 Clay Street

Carrollton,

41008

Phone:

502-732-4305

Fax:

502-732-8138

Clerk Hours:

8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.

Website:

http://www.carrollcountygov.us/

Judges:

R. Leslie Knight

Clerks:

Laman L. Stark

Parking:

Parking lots are located beside and behind the judicial center.

Free and Low-Cost Resources in Carroll County

Legal Aid Services

Illinois has legal aid organizations that provide free legal help to low-income residents. Contact your local legal aid office to check eligibility for services in Carroll County.

Typical Eligibility: Income at or below 125-200% of federal poverty guidelines

Court Self-Help Resources

Many Illinois courts offer self-help centers with:

Divorce form packets
Filing instructions
Procedural information
Referrals to resources

Contact the Carroll County Circuit Court to ask about available self-help services.

Pro Bono Legal Services

Local bar associations in Illinois may offer:

Free legal consultations
Reduced-fee attorney referrals
Pro bono representation for qualified cases

Mediation Services

Carroll County may offer court-connected mediation at reduced rates, typically much less expensive than private mediation.

Affordable Online Divorce Services for Carroll County

Online divorce services provide an affordable alternative to hiring an attorney for uncontested cases in Carroll County.

Benefits of Online Services:

Carroll County-specific forms and filing instructions
Professional document preparation
Significant cost savings vs. attorney fees
Convenient online process
Support throughout your case

Best For:

Uncontested divorces where both spouses agree
Cases without complex assets or custody disputes
Couples able to cooperate on terms
People seeking affordable professional help

Typical Cost Range: $500-$2,000 plus court filing fees

Online services work well in Carroll County for straightforward cases while providing guidance and form preparation assistance.

Divorce with Children in Carroll County

Carroll County courts prioritize children's best interests in custody and support decisions.

Child Custody in Illinois

Illinois courts consider multiple factors when determining custody:

Each parent's ability to care for children
Children's relationship with each parent
Stability of proposed living arrangements
Children's adjustment to home, school, community
Parents' willingness to cooperate
Any history of abuse or neglect

Parenting Time

Carroll County courts encourage meaningful relationships with both parents unless safety concerns exist. Parenting time schedules are customized to each family's situation.

Child Support

Illinois uses guidelines based on:

Both parents' incomes
Number of children
Parenting time allocation
Healthcare and childcare costs

Mandatory Requirements

Illinois may require parents in Carroll County to:

Complete parenting education classes
Attend mediation for custody disputes
Submit detailed parenting plans
Provide financial disclosure

Common Mistakes in Carroll County Divorces

1. Incomplete Financial Disclosure

Illinois requires full financial disclosure in divorce cases. Incomplete or inaccurate information causes delays and can result in court sanctions.

2. Missing Deadlines

Carroll County Circuit Court imposes deadlines for responses, discovery, and other filings. Missing deadlines can result in default judgments or case dismissal.

3. Incorrect Forms or Formatting

Each Illinois county has specific form requirements. Using outdated forms or incorrect formats results in rejected filings.

4. Poor Service of Process

Improperly serving your spouse invalidates the entire case. Follow Illinois's service requirements exactly.

5. Not Following Court Orders

Violating temporary orders issued by Carroll County court can result in contempt charges and negatively impact your case.

6. Failing to Update Information

Changes in income, residence, or circumstances must be reported to Carroll County court promptly.

7. Representing Yourself in Complex Cases

While self-representation is allowed in Carroll County, complex cases involving businesses, substantial assets, or high-conflict custody benefit from attorney representation.

Carroll County Divorce FAQs

How long does it take to get divorced in Carroll County?

Uncontested divorces in Carroll County typically take 2-4 months from filing to final decree. Illinois requires 6 months for irreconcilable differences waiting period. Contested cases take 8-18 months or longer depending on complexity.

How much does divorce cost in Carroll County?

Filing fees vary by Illinois county. Uncontested divorces using online services cost $500-$2,000 plus filing fees. Attorney-handled divorces range from $2,000-$6,000 for uncontested cases to $10,000-$50,000+ for contested cases.

Do I need a lawyer to get divorced in Carroll County?

No, but whether you should hire one depends on your situation. Attorney representation is recommended for cases involving significant assets, business ownership, contested custody, or domestic violence. Simple uncontested divorces often work well with online service assistance.

Can I file for divorce in Carroll County if my spouse lives elsewhere?

Yes, as long as you meet Illinois's residency requirement (90 days), you can file in Carroll County even if your spouse lives in another county or state.

What if my spouse doesn't respond to divorce papers?

If your spouse doesn't respond within the required timeframe in Illinois, you can request a default judgment from Carroll County court.

How is property divided in Carroll County?

Illinois follows equitable distribution rules. The court divides marital property fairly based on various factors, not necessarily equally.

Does Carroll County require separation before divorce?

Illinois's laws determine separation requirements. 6 months for irreconcilable differences waiting period applies after filing. Formal separation is not required before filing.

Can I change my name back in my divorce?

Yes, you can request to resume your maiden name or previous name as part of your Carroll County divorce decree.

What if I can't afford the filing fee?

Carroll County court may waive filing fees if you qualify based on low income or receipt of public assistance. File a fee waiver application with your petition.

Are divorce records public in Carroll County?

Yes, divorce records filed with Carroll County Circuit Court are generally public records, though you can request certain sensitive information be sealed.

Next Steps: Start Your Carroll County Divorce

Step 1: Verify you meet Illinois's residency requirement (90 days)
Step 2: Gather all required financial and personal documents
Step 3: Decide between self-filing, online service, or attorney
Step 4: Complete Carroll County-specific divorce forms
Step 5: File petition with Carroll County Clerk of Courts
Step 6: Serve your spouse with divorce papers
Step 7: Complete any mandatory requirements
Step 8: Finalize your divorce through settlement or hearing

About This Carroll County Divorce Guide

This comprehensive guide provides detailed information about filing for divorce in Carroll County, Illinois. Information covers local procedures, filing requirements, costs, and resources specific to Carroll County's Circuit Court.

Last Updated: February 2026

Note: Laws and procedures change. Always verify current requirements with Carroll County Clerk of Courts or consult with a qualified Illinois family law attorney.

RETAINER FEE  
PETITION    

COURT FILING FEE  SUMMONS  
AFFIDAVIT
  MOTIONS  
ARGUMENTS  
TEMPORARY ORDERS  HEARINGS  
SUBPOENAS
  DEPOSITIONS
  SETTLEMENT  CONFERENCES  JUDGEMENT

    TRIAL  
APPEALS

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Carroll County Divorce Guide: Filing in Mt. Carroll, Illinois

Carroll County Divorce at a Glance

County: Carroll County
Primary City: Mt. Carroll, Illinois
Court Type: Circuit Court
Residency Requirement: 90 days
Waiting Period: 6 months for irreconcilable differences

What Makes Carroll County Unique

Every county in Illinois follows the same state divorce laws, but Carroll County has specific local procedures, filing requirements, and resources that affect your divorce process.

Local Court Procedures

Filing Requirements

Community Resources

Carroll County offers various divorce-related resources including mediation services, self-help centers, and legal aid programs. Availability and eligibility vary by county.

Carroll County Court Filing Fees

Divorce Petition: Filing fees in Illinois vary by county. Contact the Carroll County Clerk of Courts for current exact fees.

Typical Illinois Filing Fees: $75-$450 depending on county

Additional Costs:

Service of process: $40-$150
Certified copies: $1-$5 per page
Motion filing fees: $25-$100 each

Payment Methods:
Most Illinois courts accept cash, check, money order, and credit/debit cards. Some countys charge a processing fee for card payments.

Attorney Costs in Carroll County

Attorney fees in Carroll County vary based on experience, case complexity, and whether your divorce is contested.

Hourly Rates:

Entry-level attorneys: $150-$275/hour
Experienced attorneys: $275-$400/hour
Senior attorneys: $400-$500/hour

Average Total Costs:

Simple uncontested: $1,500-$4,000
Contested divorce: $8,000-$30,000+
High-conflict cases: $30,000-$60,000+

Retainer Requirements:

Uncontested: $1,500-$3,000
Contested: $5,000-$15,000+

These are typical ranges for Illinois attorneys. Actual costs in Carroll County depend on your specific situation.

How to File for Divorce in Carroll County

Step 1: Verify Residency

You or your spouse must meet Illinois's residency requirement: 90 days

Step 2: Gather Documents

Marriage certificate (certified copy)
Financial records (pay stubs, tax returns, bank statements)
Property records
Debt information
Children's information (if applicable)

Step 3: Complete Divorce Forms

Illinois requires specific forms for divorce petitions. Carroll County may have additional local forms.

Required documents typically include:

Petition/Complaint for Divorce
Financial affidavits
Child custody forms (if applicable)
Settlement agreement (if uncontested)

Step 4: File with the Court

Submit your completed forms to the Carroll County Clerk of Courts along with the filing fee. Many Illinois countys now offer electronic filing options.

Step 5: Serve Your Spouse

After filing, your spouse must be served with divorce papers according to Illinois law. Service options include:

Sheriff's department
Private process server
Certified mail (if spouse agrees)

Step 6: Complete Mandatory Requirements

Illinois may require:

Parenting classes (if children involved)
Financial disclosures
Mediation attempts
Waiting period: 6 months for irreconcilable differences

Step 7: Finalize Your Divorce

For uncontested cases, a brief hearing may be required. Contested cases involve negotiations, possible trial, and final judgment.

Carroll County Divorce Timeline

Uncontested Divorce (Both Agree):

Minimum: 6 months for irreconcilable differences (state-mandated waiting period)
Typical: 2-4 months from filing to final decree
Best case: 6-10 weeks with all paperwork perfect

Contested Divorce (Disputes to Resolve):

Minor disagreements: 4-8 months
Significant disputes: 8-14 months
Trial required: 12-24 months

Timelines depend on court calendar availability in Carroll County, case complexity, and how quickly both parties respond to requests.

Carroll County Circuit Court

Carroll County's divorce cases are handled by the Circuit Court. The court manages all aspects of family law including divorce, custody, support, and property division.

Court Functions:

Process divorce petitions
Conduct hearings and trials
Issue temporary orders
Approve settlement agreements
Enter final divorce decrees

Court Staff:
The Clerk of Courts office handles all filing, fee collection, and record keeping for Carroll County divorce cases.

Illinois Divorce Court Locator

Carroll County Family and Divorce Courts

Court Name:

8th Judicial Circuit Court

Court Address:

8 S Main

Carrollton,

64633

Phone:

660-542-1466

Fax:

660-542-1444

Clerk Hours:

8:30am-4:30pm

Clerks:

Cheryl A. Mansur

Court Name:

15th Judicial Circuit Court

Court Address:

301 N Main, P.O. Box 229

Mt. Carroll,

61053

Phone:

815-244-0230

Fax:

815-244-3869

Clerk Hours:

8:30am-4:30pm

Website:

http://www.carroll-county.net/

Clerks:

Sherri A. Miller

Court Name:

19th East Judicial Circuit

Court Address:

210 W Church Ave

Berryville,

72616

Phone:

870)423-2422

Fax:

870-423-4796

Clerk Hours:

8am-4:30pm

Website:

http://co.carroll.ar.us/

Clerks:

Ramona Wilson

Court Name:

Carroll County Trial Court

Court Address:

101 W Main

Delphi,

46923

Phone:

(765) 564-4485

Fax:

(765) 564-1835

Website:

http://www.carrollcountyindiana.com/

Clerks:

Andrea Miller

Court Name:

Caroll County Court of Common Pleas, Domestic Relations Div.

Court Address:

119 South Lisbon Street, Suite 400 P.O. Box 367

Carrollton,

44615

Phone:

(330) 627-4886

Fax:

(330) 627-6437

Clerk Hours:

8am-4pm

Website:

http://carrollcountyohio.us/

Clerks:

William R. Wohlwend (Bill)

Court Name:

Carroll Circuit Court

Court Address:

605 Pine Street

Hillsville,

24343-0218

Phone:

276-730-3070

Fax:

276-730-3071

Clerk Hours:

8am-5pm

Website:

http://carrollcountyva.gov/

Clerks:

Janice D. Jessup

Court Name:

Carroll County Superior Court

Court Address:

96 Water Village Road - Box 3

Ossipee,

03864

Phone:

855-212-1234

Clerk Hours:

8am-4pm

Website:

https://www.carrollcountynh.net/

Clerks:

Abigail Albee

Court Name:

Carroll County Superior Court

Court Address:

323 Newnan St.

Carrollton,

30117

Phone:

(770) 830 5830

Fax:

(770) 214 3584

Clerk Hours:

8am-5pm

Website:

https://www.carrollcountyga.com/

Judges:

A. Quillian Baldwin, Jr. Dennis T. Blackmon William Hamrick Jack Kirby Emory Palmer W. Travis Sakrison John T. Simpson

Clerks:

Alan J Lee

Court Name:

Carroll County Circuit Court

Court Address:

99 Court Square, Suite 103

Huntingdon,

38344

Phone:

731-986-1932

Fax:

731 986-1926

Clerk Hours:

8:00am - 4:30pm

Website:

https://carrollcountytn.gov/

Judges:

Charles Creed McGinley, Donald E. Parish, Larry J. Logan, Marsha W. Johns, Matthew M. Maddox, Dwayne D. Maddox, Laura A. Keeton

Clerks:

Bertha Taylor

Court Name:

Carroll County Circuit Court

Court Address:

55 N. Court Street

Westminster,

21157

Phone:

(410) 386 8710

Fax:

(888) 786 0039

Clerk Hours:

8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m

Website:

http://www.carr.org/

Judges:

Michael M. Galloway J. Barry Hughes Thomas F. Stansfield Fred S. Hecker

Clerks:

Donald B. Sealing II

Court Name:

Carroll County District Court

Court Address:

114 East Sixth Street, Ste. 5

Carroll,

51401

Phone:

(712) 792 4327

Fax:

(712) 792 0016

Clerk Hours:

8am-4:30pm

Website:

http://www.co.carroll.ia.us/

Judges:

Clerks:

Linda Frank

Court Name:

Carroll County Chancery Court

Court Address:

P.O. Box 60

Carrollton,

38917

Phone:

662-237-9274

Fax:

662-237-9642

Judges:

Joseph Kilgore, Edward Fenwick

Clerks:

Stanley "Sugar" Mullins

Court Name:

Carroll County Circuit Court

Court Address:

802 Clay Street

Carrollton,

41008

Phone:

502-732-4305

Fax:

502-732-8138

Clerk Hours:

8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.

Website:

http://www.carrollcountygov.us/

Judges:

R. Leslie Knight

Clerks:

Laman L. Stark

Parking:

Parking lots are located beside and behind the judicial center.

Free and Low-Cost Resources in Carroll County

Legal Aid Services

Illinois has legal aid organizations that provide free legal help to low-income residents. Contact your local legal aid office to check eligibility for services in Carroll County.

Typical Eligibility: Income at or below 125-200% of federal poverty guidelines

Court Self-Help Resources

Many Illinois courts offer self-help centers with:

Divorce form packets
Filing instructions
Procedural information
Referrals to resources

Contact the Carroll County Circuit Court to ask about available self-help services.

Pro Bono Legal Services

Local bar associations in Illinois may offer:

Free legal consultations
Reduced-fee attorney referrals
Pro bono representation for qualified cases

Mediation Services

Carroll County may offer court-connected mediation at reduced rates, typically much less expensive than private mediation.

Affordable Online Divorce Services for Carroll County

Online divorce services provide an affordable alternative to hiring an attorney for uncontested cases in Carroll County.

Benefits of Online Services:

Carroll County-specific forms and filing instructions
Professional document preparation
Significant cost savings vs. attorney fees
Convenient online process
Support throughout your case

Best For:

Uncontested divorces where both spouses agree
Cases without complex assets or custody disputes
Couples able to cooperate on terms
People seeking affordable professional help

Typical Cost Range: $500-$2,000 plus court filing fees

Online services work well in Carroll County for straightforward cases while providing guidance and form preparation assistance.

Divorce with Children in Carroll County

Carroll County courts prioritize children's best interests in custody and support decisions.

Child Custody in Illinois

Illinois courts consider multiple factors when determining custody:

Each parent's ability to care for children
Children's relationship with each parent
Stability of proposed living arrangements
Children's adjustment to home, school, community
Parents' willingness to cooperate
Any history of abuse or neglect

Parenting Time

Carroll County courts encourage meaningful relationships with both parents unless safety concerns exist. Parenting time schedules are customized to each family's situation.

Child Support

Illinois uses guidelines based on:

Both parents' incomes
Number of children
Parenting time allocation
Healthcare and childcare costs

Mandatory Requirements

Illinois may require parents in Carroll County to:

Complete parenting education classes
Attend mediation for custody disputes
Submit detailed parenting plans
Provide financial disclosure

Common Mistakes in Carroll County Divorces

1. Incomplete Financial Disclosure

Illinois requires full financial disclosure in divorce cases. Incomplete or inaccurate information causes delays and can result in court sanctions.

2. Missing Deadlines

Carroll County Circuit Court imposes deadlines for responses, discovery, and other filings. Missing deadlines can result in default judgments or case dismissal.

3. Incorrect Forms or Formatting

Each Illinois county has specific form requirements. Using outdated forms or incorrect formats results in rejected filings.

4. Poor Service of Process

Improperly serving your spouse invalidates the entire case. Follow Illinois's service requirements exactly.

5. Not Following Court Orders

Violating temporary orders issued by Carroll County court can result in contempt charges and negatively impact your case.

6. Failing to Update Information

Changes in income, residence, or circumstances must be reported to Carroll County court promptly.

7. Representing Yourself in Complex Cases

While self-representation is allowed in Carroll County, complex cases involving businesses, substantial assets, or high-conflict custody benefit from attorney representation.

Carroll County Divorce FAQs

How long does it take to get divorced in Carroll County?

How much does divorce cost in Carroll County?

Do I need a lawyer to get divorced in Carroll County?

Can I file for divorce in Carroll County if my spouse lives elsewhere?

Yes, as long as you meet Illinois's residency requirement (90 days), you can file in Carroll County even if your spouse lives in another county or state.

What if my spouse doesn't respond to divorce papers?

If your spouse doesn't respond within the required timeframe in Illinois, you can request a default judgment from Carroll County court.

How is property divided in Carroll County?

Illinois follows equitable distribution rules. The court divides marital property fairly based on various factors, not necessarily equally.

Does Carroll County require separation before divorce?

Illinois's laws determine separation requirements. 6 months for irreconcilable differences waiting period applies after filing. Formal separation is not required before filing.

Can I change my name back in my divorce?

Yes, you can request to resume your maiden name or previous name as part of your Carroll County divorce decree.

What if I can't afford the filing fee?

Carroll County court may waive filing fees if you qualify based on low income or receipt of public assistance. File a fee waiver application with your petition.

Are divorce records public in Carroll County?

Yes, divorce records filed with Carroll County Circuit Court are generally public records, though you can request certain sensitive information be sealed.

Next Steps: Start Your Carroll County Divorce

About This Carroll County Divorce Guide

Last Updated: February 2026

Note: Laws and procedures change. Always verify current requirements with Carroll County Clerk of Courts or consult with a qualified Illinois family law attorney.

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Divorce doesn’t have to cost as much as a car.

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Carroll County Divorce Guide: Filing in Mt. Carroll, Illinois

Carroll County Divorce at a Glance

What Makes Carroll County Unique

Local Court Procedures

Filing Requirements

Community Resources

Carroll County Court Filing Fees

Attorney Costs in Carroll County

How to File for Divorce in Carroll County

Step 1: Verify Residency

Step 2: Gather Documents

Step 3: Complete Divorce Forms

Step 4: File with the Court

Step 5: Serve Your Spouse

Step 6: Complete Mandatory Requirements

Step 7: Finalize Your Divorce

Carroll County Divorce Timeline

Carroll County Circuit Court

Illinois Divorce Court Locator

Carroll County Family and Divorce Courts

Illinois Divorce Court Locator

Carroll County Family and Divorce Courts

Free and Low-Cost Resources in Carroll County

Legal Aid Services

Court Self-Help Resources

Pro Bono Legal Services

Mediation Services

Affordable Online Divorce Services for Carroll County

Divorce with Children in Carroll County

Child Custody in Illinois

Parenting Time

Child Support

Mandatory Requirements

Common Mistakes in Carroll County Divorces

1. Incomplete Financial Disclosure

2. Missing Deadlines

3. Incorrect Forms or Formatting

4. Poor Service of Process

5. Not Following Court Orders

6. Failing to Update Information

7. Representing Yourself in Complex Cases

Carroll County Divorce FAQs

How long does it take to get divorced in Carroll County?

How much does divorce cost in Carroll County?

Do I need a lawyer to get divorced in Carroll County?

Can I file for divorce in Carroll County if my spouse lives elsewhere?

The Ultimate Guide
to Getting Started in Your Divorce