Is My Illinois Divorce Going To Be Public?

 Posted on December 25, 2025 in Divorce

As of 2025, Illinois divorce cases are still filed through the court system. This means some level of public access usually exists. But not every detail is easy to find, and you can protect some information in certain situations.

If you're thinking about divorce, the Wheaton, IL divorce lawyers at Andrew Cores Family Law Group can explain what goes on the public record, what stays private, and how you might protect your personal details. How public your divorce becomes depends on how you handle the case and what issues come up.

What Does It Mean for a Divorce to Be Public in Illinois?

When a divorce is described as public, it means the case is filed in court and becomes part of the court record. Divorce cases are handled through the circuit courts and become part of the court record unless a judge orders otherwise. Once a case is filed, basic information about the case usually becomes available through court records.

This does not mean that every detail of your life is posted online. It does mean that certain documents and court actions are not private by default.

What Parts of an Illinois Divorce Are Usually Public?

Some parts of a divorce case are more accessible than others. Basic case information is often the easiest to find. Publicly available information may include:

• The names of the parties

• The county where the case is filed

• The case number and filing date

• Scheduled court dates and motions

This information is usually available through the clerk of the court in the county where the divorce is filed. In DuPage County, divorce case information is typically maintained by the DuPage County Circuit Court Clerk and can often be accessed through the county’s online court records system or by visiting the clerk’s office in person.

Are Financial Details in My Divorce Public in Illinois?

Financial information is often included in divorce filings. However, it is not always easy for the public to access. Documents like financial affidavits are filed with the court, but they are not commonly searched unless someone knows exactly what to look for.

Illinois law requires full financial disclosure in divorce cases. Under 750 ILCS 5/501, parties must exchange financial information to resolve issues like property division and support. While these disclosures are part of the court file, they are typically reviewed by the court and attorneys, not the general public.

Can I Keep My Illinois Divorce More Private?

There are ways to reduce how public a divorce becomes, even though it is filed in court. Some options focus on resolving issues outside of public hearings.

Common approaches that may help limit public exposure include:

• Resolving issues through negotiation rather than contested hearings

• Using mediation or collaborative divorce to avoid court disputes

• Reaching agreements before filing many motions

These approaches do not erase the public nature of the case. They can reduce how much personal detail is discussed in open court.

How Does Alternative Dispute Resolution Affect Privacy?

Alternative dispute resolution (ADR) includes methods like mediation and collaborative divorce. These processes focus on resolving issues outside the courtroom.

ADR can help keep sensitive discussions private. Conversations during mediation or collaborative meetings are not public court proceedings. This can be especially helpful when sensitive issues like finances, business interests, or family matters are involved.

Illinois law recognizes the use of ADR in family law cases. Under 750 ILCS 5/502, parties may enter settlement agreements that resolve issues without the need for trial. These agreements can reduce how much information becomes part of the public record.

Does a High-Asset Divorce Mean Less Privacy?

High-asset divorces often involve more documents and financial detail. This can increase concerns about privacy. However, many high-asset cases are resolved through negotiation or ADR. Careful planning and cooperation can help manage privacy concerns, even when estates or businesses are involved.

Schedule a Free Consultation With Our DuPage County, IL Divorce Attorneys

Andrew Cores Family Law Group has served families since 1996 and brings extensive experience to divorce cases involving high-net-worth individuals, estates, and businesses. Attorney Andy Cores is a Fellow with the Collaborative Law Institute of Illinois and previously served on its TEC Committee, reflecting the firm’s commitment to thoughtful and effective resolution.

If you have questions about privacy in the divorce process, call 630-871-1002 to schedule a free consultation with our Wheaton, IL divorce lawyers today.