Things You Need to Know about Parenting Time

 Posted on April 14, 2023 in Child Custody

If you are going through a separation or divorce in Illinois and you have a child from your marriage, you should consider how a divorce may affect your time with your child.

Parenting time is a core aspect of co-parenting and divorce in Illinois, and it is best to understand the laws and guidelines that surround it.

Of course, you should always consult a Naperville divorce lawyer for legal guidance pertaining to your individual case.

That being said, let’s discuss a few key things you need to know about parenting time in Illinois.

Parenting Time Is Not the Same As Child Custody

Parenting time in Illinois is not the same as custody. The state has replaced the term “child custody” with “parental responsibilities”, which refers to both decision-making authority (related to things like the child’s healthcare, education, etc.) and parenting time.

Parenting time refers to the actual time each parent spends with the child. In Illinois, the law encourages parents to share parenting time and responsibilities as equally as possible, but the court will ultimately make decisions based on the best interests of the child.

Not All-or-Nothing

Parenting time in Illinois is not an all-or-nothing proposition. Even if one parent has primary decision-making authority, the other parent can still have significant parenting time. Illinois courts typically consider the following factors when deciding on a parenting time schedule:

●          The child's age

●          The child's physical and emotional needs

●          The child's relationship with each parent

●          The parents' work schedules

●          The parents' living arrangements

●          The parents’ ability to provide a stable and safe environment

●          Any history of domestic violence

The courts will always make a decision based on the child’s best interests, taking these factors into account, as well as the child’s wishes if they are old enough.

If you and your child’s other parent disagree about parenting time, an attorney can help you present evidence and arguments to the court that demonstrate your involvement in your child's life and your ability to provide a stable and safe environment.

 Changes Are Possible After Court Order

Parenting time can be modified after the initial court order has been issued. If there is a significant change in a parent’s circumstances, such as relocation, remarriage, or a job loss, either parent can petition the courts for a modification of parenting time.

Parents May Have to Attend Classes

Another thing you need to know about parenting time in Illinois, is that the court may require your to attend parenting classes. These classes are designed to help parents understand the impact of divorce or separation on their children and to learn effective co-parenting strategies.

Contact a Naperville Divorce Lawyer Today

These are just a few key things you need to know about parenting time. If you are getting divorced and you have children, you should consider the aforementioned aspects and seek the advice of an experienced divorce lawyer or family law attorney in Illinois.

We highly recommend consulting with a Naperville divorce lawyer from a trusted law firm like Pesce Law Group, P.C. Call 630-352-2240 for a consultation. 

If you want to learn more about parenting time in Illinois, child custody, or about the best Naperville divorce lawyers and DuPont County family law attorneys, please visit our website today.

Source: 

https://www.ilga.gov/legislation/ilcs/documents/075000050K610.5.htm