Child Custody & Visitation - Illinois Divorce Source

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Nesting Plans for Child Custody by Joseph Dillon, Divorce Mediator

So as responsible parents you feel that keeping them in the home will provide some stability during this time of intense transition. So you thought setting up a nesting plan may be the way to go. But before you decide, allow us to share some pros and cons about this relatively new phenomenon regarding co-parenting children post-divorce in this two-part series on the topic.

Should Illinois Mandate At Least 35% of Custody to Each Parent? by Joseph Dillon, Divorce Mediator

As part of its family law overhaul bill, the State of Illinois is considering some very interesting amendments to the current family law statutes. Including one that would mandate that each parent get at least 35% custody of their children, with the remaining parenting time to be divided as the parties see fit or can agree on.

Kids and Divorce - Are You Really Putting Them First? by Joseph Dillon, Divorce Mediator

As a mediation firm, we believe in squarely putting kids first. That’s why when it comes to kids and divorce, we start all mediations with the parenting plan and child custody arrangement.

Removal of Children From the State by Mark Salkeld, Associate with Law Offices of Edward P. Graham, Ltd.

We are frequently asked whether a custodial parent can move out of state with the minor children over the objection of the non-custodial parent, particularly where the custodial parent is to be remarried or has experienced a change in employment. Such a decision is a difficult one for everyone involved.

Child Custody Proceedings in Illinois by Debra J. Braselton, Esq.

When the divorcing parties have children, a myriad of fears and uncertainties present themselves. Some of your most fundamental personal liberties - decisions on how you raise your children - are in the hands of a judge who knows nothing about you or your family. The best interests of the children are paramount in every divorce and if the parents are unable to agree on custody, visitation and other important child-related issues, the court will make decisions that will then be imposed upon the parties.

Custody and Visitation - What do Those Words Actually Mean, in Layman’s Terms? by Brian James, C.E.L. and Associates

As a divorce mediator in Chicago, IL, I spend a lot of my time educating my clients as to what C & V mean. In the past, custody always went to the mom and dad got visits every other weekend. Views have changed over the years. Studies are showing that children benefit more when both parents are active in their lives. Dads are taking proactive roles in their children’s lives and this is changing the dynamics of custody and visitation.

Child Custody, Visitation, and State Removal FAQ by Ernest Walton, Esq.

There are no formal rules regarding the amount and schedule of visitation. Generally, Courts will permit a nonresidential parent to have parenting time with a child for up to 50% of a child’s waking hours. So, parental involvement is encouraged. Nevertheless, there is no formal or legal presumption that necessitates extremely liberal visitation; a nonresidential parent must be prepared to prove it is in the child’s best interest.

Grandparent and Sibling Visitation by Ernest Walton, Esq.

A grandparent or sibling may petition for visitation if the custodial parent unreasonably denies visitation.

Helping Your Own Custody Case by Paul L. Feinstein, Esq.

With more fathers seeking custody of their children than ever before, it is important to realize what things courts consider in determining children’s best interests. Courts often look at who performs basic but important services for the kids.

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Custody & Visitation

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In deciding child custody, the Illinois court does not consider the gender of the custodial parent. The court considers all relevant factors including the wishes of the child's parents, the wishes of the child, the relationship of the child with the parents, siblings, and any other person who significantly affects the child's best interest, the child's adjustment to home, school, and community, the mental and physical health of everyone, any physical violence by the child's potential custodian, whether directed at the child or at another person, episodes of repeated abuse whether directed at the child or directed at another person, and the willingness and ability of each parent to encourage a close relationship between the other parent and the child.

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