Skokie Child Custody Lawyer

When a divorcing couple has minor children, establishing a parenting plan is part of the divorce process for them. This was once known as a custody order, and the term “child custody” is still used in many states. But in 2016, Illinois’ updated law went into place, replacing decades-old legal guidelines with a more modern approach and set of terminology that fits today’s culture better.

If you are a parent, take time to learn about how parenting plans are handled in Illinois. Just like before, the court’s goal when establishing a parenting plan is to create the arrangement that best fits the child’s needs.

Parental Responsibilities and Parenting Time

Parental responsibilities include:

• Ensuring the child attends school and receives a quality education;
• Keeping a child healthy and safe;
• Providing the emotional support and guidance a developing child needs; and
• Providing a safe, stable home for a child.

Parents can share parental responsibilities or one parent can hold them solely. Parenting time, which was once known as “visitation,” is the other component of a parenting plan. This is the time a child spends in each parent’s household.

Establishing a Parenting Plan in Illinois

To determine the parenting plan that best fits a child’s needs, the court considers a series of factors. These factors include:

• Each parent’s income and financial stability;
• The child’s relationship with each parent and the other members of their households;
• The child’s personal needs;
• Any history of domestic violence in either household;
• If the child is over 14, his or her preference; and
• Each parent’s willingness to cooperate with the court and the other parent on issues related to the child.

Modifying a Parenting Plan

Once a parenting plan has been in place for at least two years, it can be reviewed and modified. Under certain circumstances, such as when a parent wants to make a substantial move and when a parent feels his or her child is in danger with the other parent, one can seek a modification before two years pass. If the parents agree to the proposed modification, they can submit a new parenting plan with the court and begin abiding by the changed guidelines. If one parent disagrees with the other’s proposed change, the parent seeking the change must demonstrate to the court why such a change is in the child’s best interest. For example, a parent planning to move more than 50 miles must provide a good reason for the move, such as a higher-paying job.

Work with an Experienced Skokie Child Custody Lawyer

To learn more about your rights as a parent, how parenting plans are established, and what you can to do enforce or modify your parenting plan, set up a legal consultation with one of the experienced divorce lawyers at The Law Offices of George M. Sanders, P.C. Our team is here to answer any questions you have and act as your legal advocates.