Modifying a Divorce Decree in Illinois

 Posted on May 01, 2025 in Post-Judgment Modification & Enforcement

Even after finalization, situations can arise that warrant the modification of a divorce judgment. Illinois family courts recognize that circumstances can change post-decree, and the law allows you to petition for a modification. The process can be tedious and lengthy at times, and as the petitioner, you are responsible for proving the need to modify. However, you do not need to do it alone. A Wheaton, IL divorce attorney will assess your situation to determine whether you qualify for modification and help you gather the evidence necessary to prove your claim. 

When Can You Modify a Divorce Decree in Illinois?

Illinois law does not allow you to modify a divorce decree for any reason. Instead, it requires a "substantial change in circumstances," and there are a few common instances the court could deem acceptable, including:

• Income changes: If you are paying child or spousal support, Illinois law allows a request for modification if you lost or changed your job, resulting in a change of income.

• Relocation: If you share parental responsibilities with a co-parent, you may request a modification if one parent moves far enough away to impact parenting time.

• Change in health: Health issues can significantly change physical, emotional, and financial circumstances, resulting in the need to modify a decree.

Other events, such as remarriage or the incidence of criminal charges, could be considered as well. The law keeps the official requirement somewhat vague to allow a personalized approach to each case. When you work with a knowledgeable family law attorney, you have a better chance of identifying and presenting evidence that will support a legitimate request to modify the divorce judgment.

What Elements of a Divorce Decree Cannot Be Modified?

Changes in property distribution are rare. Typically, you can only change how assets and debts are divided in a final divorce judgment if you have proof that your ex-spouse hid property, lied about income, or somehow manipulated the final decision. For example, finding hidden assets post-divorce is a serious situation that could require a second look at a decree modification. However, appeals or modifications based on erroneous property distribution are only allowed for a certain amount of time after a divorce has been finalized. 

Contact Our Wheaton, IL Divorce Attorneys To Schedule a Free Consultation

At Andrew Cores Family Law Group, we have helped clients modify divorce decrees, spousal support orders, and judgments for the allocation of parental responsibilities. We understand what the court wants to see before accepting a petition for modification. If your situation has changed since your divorce judgment was finalized, call 630-871-1002 to speak with one of our DuPage County, IL divorce lawyers today. Your initial consultation is free.