It’s time for our annual Year in Review. This is when we take a look back at the articles we’ve published throughout the year. We know that many spouses think about filing for divorce for months—and sometimes even longer—before they decide to move forward, and we also know how important it is for spouses to make informed decisions both before and during the divorce process.
So, if you are thinking about filing for divorce in 2026, what do you need to know? Here is a look back at some of the key insights divorce lawyer Deanna Bowen shared in 2025:
What To Do (and What Not To Do) When You Are Considering a Divorce
When you are considering a divorce, there are both steps you need to take and mistakes you need to avoid. By taking an informed approach to your preparations, you can help put yourself in the best possible position for an efficient process and successful outcome. Conversely, if you overlook any important considerations, this could make the process more difficult and time-consuming than necessary. To learn more about what to do (and what not to do) when you are considering a divorce, you can read: How to Prepare (and How Not to Prepare) to Bring Your Marriage to an End.
Additional Tips for Parents Who Are Considering a Divorce
While planning ahead is important for anyone who is considering a divorce, it is especially important for parents of minor children. Not only must parents address all of the same issues as other spouses who are going through the divorce process, but they must also address the child-related aspects of going through a divorce—namely, developing a parenting plan and addressing child support. If you are preparing for a divorce as a parent in 2026, we encourage you to read: 7 Tips for Illinois Parents Who Are Preparing for a Divorce.
Taking a Proactive Approach to Achieving an Amicable Outcome
For many spouses, achieving an amicable outcome is a key consideration when preparing to go through a divorce. If this is one of your priorities, you have a variety of options for doing your part to make the process as amicable—and as fair for both of you—as possible. For more information, you can read: Finding a Way to Come to Terms with Your Spouse About Your Divorce.
Resolving Disagreements During the Divorce Process
Of course, even with the best of intentions, it is still possible for disagreements to arise. The decisions spouses make during their divorce can impact their lives (and their children’s lives) for years to come, so it is important for both spouses to stand up for their interests when necessary. But, even in this scenario, there will often be amicable paths forward. Learn more: What Are the Options for Resolving Disagreements During a Divorce?
Why You Need to Be Very Careful About Trying a “DIY” Divorce
From online divorce forms to AI divorce tools, today there are more options than ever for trying a “DIY” divorce. But the reality is that all of these options remain risky for several reasons. If you are thinking about trying a “DIY” divorce, we strongly encourage you to read this first: What You Need to Know About Trying a “DIY” Divorce in Illinois.
Why It’s Important to Have Experienced Legal Representation During Your Divorce
Beyond understanding the risks associated with trying a “DIY” divorce, it is also important to understand how an experienced divorce lawyer can assist you with all aspects of the process. From preparing for your divorce to helping you make informed decisions about important issues like property division, financial support, and child custody, an experienced divorce lawyer will be able to help you every step of the way. Learn more: Can (and Should) I Handle My Divorce on My Own?
Understanding the Terms of Your Marital Settlement Agreement
Unless you take your divorce to court, the divorce process will end with you and your spouse signing a marital settlement agreement. This is a comprehensive and legally-binding document that outlines the terms of your divorce. When entering into a marital settlement agreement, it is important to make sure you know what the agreement says. This article provides an introduction to some of the key terms: 10 Key Terms in a Marital Settlement Agreement.
Making Informed Decisions About Property Division During Your Divorce
Unless you have a prenuptial agreement that says exactly how you and your spouse will divide your assets, you will need to make informed decisions about property division during your divorce. There are several important considerations involved, including making sure you know which assets are (and aren’t) subject to division. For some insights into what you should be thinking about as you start preparing for your divorce, you can read: 7 Property-Related Considerations for Divorcing Spouses in Illinois.
Making Informed Decisions About Parenting Time During Your Divorce
If you are preparing to go through a divorce with children, the decisions you make during the divorce process will have direct and substantial impacts on your children’s lives. As a result, you need to be confident that you are making decisions with your children’s best interests in mind. For an overview of some key considerations, you can read: A Guide to the Illinois Standardized Parenting Plan Form and Long-Distance Custody Arrangements: What Divorcing Parents in Illinois Need to Know.
Making Informed Decisions About Using Social Media During Your Divorce
Finally, if you are on social media, it will be important for you to make informed decisions about how you use social media during your divorce. There are several mistakes you will want to avoid, including mistakes that we see spouses make all too often. If you need to know more about making informed decisions about using social media during your divorce, we encourage you to read: Social Media and Your Divorce: What Spouses in Illinois Need to Know.
Schedule a Free Consultation with Gurnee, IL Divorce Lawyer Deanna Bowen
Deanna Bown is a Gurnee, IL divorce lawyer who has extensive experience guiding spouses through all aspects of the divorce process. If you are considering a divorce in 2026, we invite you to call 847-469-4771 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation.
