Stay-at-Home Parents and Divorce in Illinois
Being a working parent is tough. Being a stay-at-home parent? That’s a full-time job without vacation days, sick leave, or a paycheck—and yet, it's one of the most valuable roles in any household.
If you’ve dedicated yourself to raising your children and managing your home while your spouse built a career, you may now be facing a painful question: What happens to me if we divorce?
You’re not alone—and you’re not without options.
Lake County family law attorney Alan Lenczycki understands how overwhelming this situation can feel. Here’s what every stay-at-home parent in Lake and McHenry County, IL should know about their rights and the road ahead.
Why Your Contributions Matter—Even Without a Paycheck
Let’s be real: Raising a child is a demanding job. Managing a household, coordinating appointments, driving to school events, meal planning, homework help, laundry, budgeting, emotional support, and so much more—it doesn’t leave much room for climbing a corporate ladder.
In many families, one parent steps back from the workforce so the other can focus on advancing their career. That’s a mutual decision with long-term consequences—for both partners.
If you’re the one who paused your career for the sake of the family, your work hasn’t gone unnoticed in the eyes of Illinois family law.
What Happens in a Divorce When One Parent Doesn’t Work?
Divorce can feel financially terrifying if you haven’t been earning an income. You might worry about how you'll support yourself, whether you'll have to sell your home, or if you’ll get a fair share of marital assets.
Here’s some reassurance: Illinois is an equitable distribution state. That means the court doesn’t just divide assets 50/50—it considers what's fair based on many factors, including your role as a stay-at-home parent.
The court will look at things like:
Whether you supported your spouse’s education or career
The income and financial needs of both spouses
Your potential earning capacity, based on education, experience, and job market conditions
How your role at home allowed your spouse to succeed professionally
In short, the years you spent supporting your family are legally valuable.
Reentering the Workforce After Divorce
If you’re considering returning to work, you may face challenges—outdated skills, gaps in your résumé, and fewer networking connections. The court knows this. That’s why spousal support (alimony) and job training opportunities can be part of your divorce settlement.
You deserve time to rebuild—and resources to help you get there.
Don’t Let Fear Delay Your Freedom
If you've been holding off on divorce because you’re worried about your financial future, it’s time to talk to someone who can help you plan a safe, smart next chapter.
Divorce attorney Alan Lenczycki is here to guide stay-at-home parents through the divorce process with confidence and compassion. He’ll walk you through your legal rights, your financial options, and what to expect every step of the way.
Call 847-262-9888 today to schedule your free consultation with Alan. Your future is worth protecting—let’s take the first step together.
