Illinois operates under a system where marital dissolution can occur without requiring one party to prove wrongdoing on the part of the other. This means that a divorce can be granted based solely on the grounds of “irreconcilable differences,” signifying that the marriage has irretrievably broken down. Essentially, neither spouse is required to demonstrate fault, such as adultery or abuse, to obtain a divorce decree.
The adoption of this approach simplifies the divorce process by removing the often contentious and emotionally charged element of assigning blame. This can lead to a more amicable separation, potentially reducing legal costs and emotional distress for all parties involved, including children. Furthermore, it acknowledges the reality that marriages sometimes simply fail due to incompatibility rather than one persons specific actions. This represents a shift away from traditional fault-based divorce systems, recognizing evolving societal views on marriage and divorce.