What not to say in child custody mediation includes anything unduly offensive, wandering, or disorganized, anything disrespectful to the mediator and the other parent, and anything not in the child's best interests. Remaining courteous and cooperative is important because the mediator can make recommendations to the court in case you and the other parent do not agree. The recommendations might not reflect well on you if you have been combative. Respect also maximizes the chances that you and … [Read more...]

If someone else has custody of your son or daughter, there are steps you can take to modify or reverse your child custody order in Illinois. A child custody lawyer can help you understand how to get custody of your child back and guide you through the legal process to increase your chances of success. Parents working to regain custody of their children must prove that it is in their children's best interests. Parents should meticulously follow any conditions the court sets, retain legal counsel, … [Read more...]

There are a variety of reasons why a judge would modify parenting time. In Illinois, legal parental agreements are binding, but the court may modify parenting time at any time to protect the best interest of a child. A parenting time agreement may be modified due to changes in family circumstances, custody arrangements, child safety concerns, and maturing children. How to Modify Parenting Time in Illinois When an Illinois divorce includes children, terms are set in place by the court to … [Read more...]

When extracurricular activities interfere with parenting time schedules, parent communication, flexibility, and co-parenting apps can simplify conflicts. Parenting plans are designed to help divorced parents share in time and activities with their children. A child custody lawyer can help coparents resolve disputes and revise parenting plans.  How Parenting Time Can Affect Extracurricular Activities When parents divorce in Illinois, the court establishes a parenting plan that spells … [Read more...]

To determine who has custody of a child when the parents are not married in Illinois, the courts will begin by considering whether parentage was established. For biological mothers who are unmarried, parentage is automatically established. In most cases, the mother will retain sole legal and residential custody until the father establishes parentage. Unmarried fathers often hire a family law attorney to help them prove paternity, so they can enjoy parenting rights and responsibilities.  What … [Read more...]