Dividing property in a divorce can be overwhelming. You’re trying to move forward, but you still have to figure out who gets what—cars, houses, retirement accounts, and even the family business. That’s where our Illinois Property Division Cost Calculator comes in. This free tool gives you an estimate of what the legal process will cost based on your situation. Here’s how it works and what you need to know.
We built the calculator to reflect real-world legal and financial factors that affect property division in Illinois. You’ll be asked to enter a few pieces of information so we can give you the most accurate estimate.
First, you’ll enter the number of major marital assets you and your spouse have to divide. That’s cars, investment accounts, and valuable items you both own.
Next, you’ll add the number of real estate properties involved in the divorce. That could be a family home, rental properties, or vacation homes. Real estate usually takes more time and paperwork to divide, which can increase the cost.
Then you’ll be asked if there are any business interests. If either of you own all or part of a business that can impact the process. Businesses often require a valuation and may involve special legal steps so it’s important to include that information.
You’ll also enter the number of retirement accounts. Splitting a 401(k) or pension often means additional legal filings like a Qualified Domestic Relations Order (QDRO) which can increase the cost.
Finally, you’ll choose your level of conflict. If you and your spouse agree on most things, the cost may be lower. But if there’s conflict—especially if it ends up in court—the fees can add up quickly. That’s why we ask if the situation is low, medium, or high conflict.
After you fill out the form, the calculator estimates the total cost to divide your property. This includes expected attorney fees, filing costs, and expenses for things like business valuations or court hearings. It’s not a final quote, but it will give you an idea of what to expect. The calculator assumes you’re dividing property under Illinois law, where the standard is “equitable distribution.” That means property isn’t always split 50/50. Instead, the court looks at what’s fair based on things like the length of the marriage, each spouse’s income and contributions, and the value of each asset.
If you and your spouse can work together to agree on how to divide everything the process is usually quicker and more affordable. But if you can’t agree especially when high value or complex assets are involved the costs can add up fast.
In Illinois, only marital property is divided in a divorce. That’s anything you and your spouse acquired during the marriage, no matter who paid for it. Non-marital property—like gifts, inheritances, or things owned before marriage—is usually not included unless it was mixed with marital assets.
Also, Illinois courts don’t automatically split things down the middle. The judge considers fairness instead. If one spouse stayed home to raise children while the other worked, the court may adjust the division to reflect those roles.
Property division can be one of the most emotional and complicated parts of a divorce. Our calculator is here to help you get a clearer picture of what to expect so you can make smart choices and plan ahead.
If you’re facing divorce and need help with the process we’re here for you. Contact O’Flaherty Law today to schedule a consultation and learn how we can guide you through the legal process with clarity and care.
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