How are Child Custody Disagreements Resolved in Will County? 

 Posted on November 11,2022 in Child Custody

The two main components of child custody in Illinois are "parental responsibilities" and "parenting time." Parental responsibilities involve the big decisions in a child's life, such as education, religion, and medical care. Parenting time is simply the time each parent spends with the child. Parents can either share these responsibilities and parenting time, or one parent can have sole responsibility for the child. If parents cannot agree on parental responsibilities and parenting time, the court will make a judgment based on what is in the child's best interests.

Factors Considered by Illinois Courts in Determining Child Custody

The Illinois Marriage and Dissolution of Marriage Act lists several factors that courts must consider when making a child custody determination. These include:

• The desires of the child's parents regarding custody and parenting time

• The child’s opinion on custody, taking into account the child's age and maturity

• The relationship of the child with his or her parents, siblings, and any other person who may influence the child's best interests

• The child's acclimation to his or her home, school, and neighborhood

• The mental and physical health of the parents and child 

• The ability of each parent to encourage the child's relationship with the other parent

• The history of violence by one parent against another or against the child, a sibling, or any member of the household

• Whether one parent is more likely than the other parent to allow the child to have contact with the other parent

• Whether one parent is more likely to make decisions in the child's best interests

• The willingness and ability of each parent to cooperate with the other parent in matters concerning the child

• The level of conflict between the parents

• The distance between the parents' homes

In addition, courts will also look at any other factor that is relevant to the child's best interests.

Contact a Joliet Child Custody Lawyer

Some divorcing and unmarried parents are able to negotiate a child custody arrangement through their attorneys and keep the matter out of court. However, many others are not able to reach an agreement and must go to court. If you are having difficulty coming to an agreement with the other parent, make sure to work with an experienced Will County child custody lawyer.

The attorneys at The Foray Firm have extensive experience handling child custody cases, divorce, and other family law matters. We can help you understand the best interests of your child and what factors the court will consider when making a custody determination. We can also help you negotiate a parenting plan that is in your child's best interests and that takes into account your rights as a parent. To schedule a consultation, call us at 312-702-1293.

Source:

https://www.ilga.gov/legislation/ilcs/documents/075000050K602.5.htm