False allegations of child abuse in a custody case are emotionally damaging to the accused parent as well as the child(ren) involved. Accusations could lead to police investigations, loss of custody, orders of protection or temporary restraining orders until they are proven false. Unfortunately, by the time allegations are disproved, long-term damage may have already been done to the child(ren)’s relationship with the accused parent. Why Would a Parent Make a False Abuse Allegation? In a … [Read more...]

When one parent refuses to or is incapable of co-parenting with the other parent, it could be grounds for sole custody. Both parents are expected to communicate and cooperate with each other to make decisions for their child without allowing their personal conflicts with one another get in the way. What is Sole Custody? With joint custody, both parents are supposed to jointly make major decisions for their children. This generally includes decisions regarding their children’s education, … [Read more...]

When children are involved in a difficult divorce, co-parenting can be extremely challenging but following a few simple steps can make all the difference. When parents put their differences aside, practice flexibility, and make their children their top priority, children of divorce have better outcomes. Want What is Best for the Children When parents are fighting, children are the ones that suffer. Both parents need to approach the co-parenting situation with good intentions toward their … [Read more...]

When children are involved in a divorce, limits for travel are set within the guidelines of parenting time in the family’s custody order. Most custody orders require the non-custodial parent to consult with the custodial parent to get permission to travel out of state or the country. However, complications can arise when parents disagree about travel that involves their children and could interfere with parenting time. Most Parenting Arrangements Require Permission The parent wishing to … [Read more...]

When a child's complete separation from a parent is warranted in Illinois, the courts may terminate parental rights as part of an adoption by someone else or as part of a juvenile case when abuse, neglect or abandonment is proved. Parents, guardians, or other family members may file a petition to terminate a parent's legal rights. Unless the parent in question voluntarily consents to the termination, the process requires the court to evaluate the fitness of the parent and whether terminating the … [Read more...]