Chicago Parenting Time Lawyer

Chicago Parenting Time Lawyer

It can be difficult to understand the relevant statutes and court rules if you are involved in a parenting time issue in a divorce case or paternity matter. Plus, these cases are very personal in nature, so you likely experience stress due to the uncertainties. An experienced Chicago parenting time lawyer can help ease your anxieties by providing knowledgeable, compassionate representation in these types of cases. 

At Hammer Serna & Quinn, LLC, our team has the necessary experience to protect your interests in parenting time and visitation matters, allowing you to focus on time with your child. Please contact our firm to schedule a consultation.

Parenting Time in Illinois

In 2016, Illinois changed its laws to replace the terms “child custody” and “visitation” with “parenting time.” However, the basic concepts remain the same, and Illinois parenting time laws are designed to encourage both parents to engage in a healthy, solid relationship with their children whenever possible. 

Parenting time agreements typically become necessary in one of two situations: 

• As part of a divorce case in which the judge has already determined the allocation of parental responsibilities
• In cases of a child whose parents were not married, but legal paternity has been established.

Generally, the non-residential parent has the right to spend time with the child. An appropriate parenting time order will be entered so long as domestic violence, criminal conduct, or other circumstances do not pose a threat to the child. If any of these issues are present in your case, a Chicago parenting time lawyer can assist you. 

There are multiple provisions under Illinois law regarding visitation, but one factor outweighs all other considerations in parenting time – the child’s best interests. Beyond meeting that standard, other statutory sections cover: 

• Rules regarding enforcement of court orders on parenting time
• Remedies available to a parent when the other does not comply with parenting time orders
• Guidelines for court supervision if it becomes necessary for a judge to monitor compliance with parenting time
• Many other issues

Legal Representation with Parenting Time Matters

Our legal services include representation in all types of parenting time matters. Since Illinois law encourages parents to reach an agreement on visitation, you may need assistance with negotiations, drafting the necessary documents, and presenting the agreement to the judge. As long as the parenting time arrangement is in accordance with the child’s best interests, it will likely be approved. A Chicago parenting time lawyer can assist with preparing and entering the proper court orders. 

However, if you cannot agree, parenting time disputes develop, or you must enforce a court order, it will be necessary to go to court. Our lawyers have extensive litigation skills and experience, so we are prepared to fight for your parenting time rights in court. 

Schedule a Consultation with a Chicago Parenting Time Attorney

For more information, please schedule a consultation with a Chicago parenting time lawyer at Hammer Serna & Quinn, LLC. You can reach us online or give us a call. We assist clients throughout Chicagoland and Northern Illinois, and we look forward to guiding you through complicated parenting time issues.