Post-Decree FAQ

Life doesn’t stop after a divorce decree is finalized. In Illinois, financial and parenting circumstances can shift unexpectedly—demanding legal updates to child support, custody, or alimony arrangements. That’s where post-decree legal actions come in. Whether you’re seeking to modify an existing order or enforce a previous agreement, this guide—built by seasoned Chicago family law attorneys—will walk you through everything you need to know about post-decree matters in Illinois.

What does decree mean?

A decree is an official order issued by a legal authority—most commonly a final judgment of divorce, legal separation, or paternity. But life doesn’t always go as planned after a court order is entered. In Illinois family law, “post-decree” refers to legal matters that arise after the divorce decree is finalized, including requests to change or enforce orders related to child support, custody, property division, parental responsibilities, or spousal maintenance. These post-decree legal actions ensure that court orders stay fair and relevant as financial, personal, or parenting circumstances evolve.

What is a Post-Decree Dispute?

What does decreed mean? A decree is an order handed down by a judge that settles issues in a court case. A post-decree dispute can arise when unexpected circumstances occur for either former spouse. Many couples believe that once a divorce is complete, all decisions are final. However, that is not the case. Finances, lifestyle, and other circumstances can change with very little notice. So, even after a divorce is finalized in Illinois, there may be times where the courts need to still step in and intervene to settle a post-decree dispute.

What does post decree mean in court?

In court, “post decree” cases refer to any legal actions taken after a final divorce judgment is issued. These cases often address enforcement, modification, or contempt issues and are heard by the same family court that issued the original decree.

What is a post-decree motion?

A post-decree motion is a formal request submitted to the court after a divorce judgment is entered. It can seek to modify, enforce, or clarify existing court orders. Examples include motions to reduce child support, change parenting time, or resolve compliance issues.

Family Court Post-Decree Modifications

To have post-decree modifications approved by the courts, the petitioner must show evidence of significant changes to family structure or financial situation. Common situations where a post-decree modification may be granted include:

• One ex-spouse becomes disabled and can’t work
• One ex-spouse has received a substantial salary increase
• One ex-spouse has lost his or her job or earns a substantially lower income
• One ex-spouse gets remarried or has another child
• The needs of the child involved change, including medical or educational needs
• The child wants to live with his or her other parent
• One parent wants to move out of state.

Which Areas of Divorce Can Post-Decree Modification Affect?

Here’s a look at the most common areas affected by post-decree modifications:

• Alimony/Maintenance: Post-decree modification of spousal support should meet standards set by the Illinois Marriage and Dissolution of Marriage Act. If, for example, one party is having trouble making payments to his or her ex-spouse in the amount that was stipulated in the original divorce decree, that parent may initiate post-decree proceeding to request an adjustment. Modification would also be appropriate if the payee has remarried and no longer needs spousal support.
• Allocation of Parental Responsibilities: Child custody and parenting time modifications are often the reason for post-decree proceedings, because it can be difficult to balance the needs of a child/children with the needs of their parents. One parent may seek a modification if that parent wants to move out of state or if he or she recently started a more demanding job.
• Child Support: If a non-custodial parent loses his or her job or suffers a substantial decrease in income, that parent may seek a modification to reduce child support payments. In this case, it’s best to initiate a post-decree action, rather than allow the child support payments to become delinquent. A child support decree, or child support order is the portion of a divorce judgment that outlines financial obligations for the non-custodial parent. If your financial situation changes, you may file a post-decree motion to adjust the child support amount in line with Illinois guidelines.

Do I need a post-decree attorney in Chicago?

If you live in the Chicago area and are facing changes in your post-divorce life—such as job loss, relocation, remarriage, or a shift in your child’s needs—it may be time to pursue a post-decree modification. Whether you need to adjust child custody, or child support, reduce spousal maintenance, or enforce a divorce decree, working with a knowledgeable post-decree attorney in Chicago can make all the difference. These legal professionals are well-versed in Illinois family court procedures and can guide you through filing motions, presenting evidence, and protecting your rights. A Chicago post-decree lawyer can also help you avoid costly delays and ensure compliance with legal requirements.