Courts review various factors, including the child’s relationship with each parent, the child’s needs, the distance between parents, and any history of abuse or neglect.
Decision Making & Parenting Time
Chicago Parenting Time Attorneys
At Hammer Serna & Quinn, LLC, our Chicago decision making and parenting time attorneys are compassionate, solutions-oriented advocates for parents. You do not have to navigate a divorce, separation, or other parental conflicts on your own. If you have any specific questions about decision-making or parenting time, we are more than ready to help. To set up your fully confidential consultation with an Illinois child custody lawyer, please contact our Chicago law office today.
An Overview Decision Making/Parenting Time in Illinois (Custody and Visitation)
When parents of young kids get divorced or separate, their rights will need to be worked out. Illinois no longer uses the terms “child custody” or “child visitation” in family law court. Instead, the concepts are now referred to “decision making” and “parenting time” respectively. Under state law, parental rights and responsibilities are allocated in a way determined to be fully consistent with the best interests of the child. It is a comprehensive legal standard—courts are empowered to consider all factors relevant to determining what is best for a child’s health and well-being.
Notably, Illinois law strongly favors some form of joint co-parenting. In most cases, parents will be granted some form of joint decision-making authority and shared parenting times. Though, sole custody can be granted if deemed best for the child. Our Chicago, IL custody attorneys are ready to advocate for the best interests of children whether through the Courts or by agreement.
How Our Illinois Family Lawyers Can Help With Decision Making/Parenting Time
A divorce or separation is complicated—especially for parents with young kids. At Hammer Serna & Quinn, LLC, we are here to protect your parental rights and help you do what is best for your family. When you call our Chicago office, you will be able to speak to an Illinois family lawyer who can:
- Listen to your story and answer your questions about the law;
- Investigate your case—securing any relevant information;
- Help you craft and negotiate an effective parenting plan; and
- Take whatever legal action is necessary to protect your parental rights.
Contact Our Chicago Child Custody and Child Visitation Attorneys Today
At Hammer Serna & Quinn, LLC, our Chicago family lawyers have extensive experience helping clients with the full range of parental decision making and parenting times cases. If you have questions about your rights, we can help. Contact us today for your strictly confidential, no-obligation initial family law consultation. With an office in Chicago, we handle custody & visitation matters throughout Northern Illinois, including in Wheaton, Evanston, Oak Park, and Glenview.
FAQs About Decision Making & Parenting Time in Illinois
Can one parent get sole decision-making responsibilities?
Yes, a court may grant one parent sole decision-making authority if it determines that joint decision-making would negatively impact the child’s well-being.
What if parents can’t agree on a parenting plan?
When parents cannot reach an agreement, the court will develop a parenting plan focused on the child’s best interests, carefully considering all relevant evidence.
Can parenting time be denied in Illinois?
Parenting time may be restricted or denied if the court determines that allowing it would seriously endanger the child’s physical, mental, or emotional health.
Can a parenting plan be modified in Illinois?
A parenting plan can be modified if there is a significant change in circumstances and the modification is in the child’s best interests.
What should be included in an Illinois parenting plan?
A parenting plan should detail parenting time schedules, holiday arrangements, transportation responsibilities, and how decisions about the child will be made.
What are the consequences if a parent violates a parenting plan?
Violations of a parenting plan can result in legal consequences, including fines, modification of the plan, or changes to parenting time.
Can a child decide which parent they want to live with in Illinois?
While a child’s preference can be considered, it is just one of many factors the court evaluates when determining parenting time and decision-making.
How does relocation affect parenting time and decision-making in Illinois?
If a parent wishes to relocate with the child, they must seek court approval. The court will assess whether the move supports the child’s best interests.
Get In Touch
Call or email Hammer Serna & Quinn, LLC today to schedule a consultation.
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