Lake County Custody Attorney

Waukegan Visitation Lawyer

In awarding custody and setting parenting time schedules, the court will always act in what it believes is the best interest of a child. While in the past the "tender years presumption" favored mothers in custody determinations, equal protection concerns has afforded fathers equal consideration in custody determinations. When determining custody, the court will consider the wishes of both parents and those of the child. Additionally, the court will consider the relationship a child has with each parent, who has acted as the primary care giver, as well as the interaction with siblings. If there is a history or threat of violence and abuse, this will also affect how the court determines custody. Lastly, the court will evaluate how well a child is adjusted to his or her home, neighborhood, school, and larger community.

Regardless of custody, parenting time, or visitation, both parents should have access to the medical records of their children and have the legal authority to make medical decisions for them.

At Schlesinger & Strauss, LLC, we work closely with families in custody and visitation matters before the court. If you're facing divorce or need more information regarding custody and visitation matters, contact Libertyville child custody lawyers at Schlesinger & Strauss, LLC, today.

Visitation and Parenting Time

Determining parenting time should be a joint effort of both parents. Ideally, parents should develop a plan in consultation with each other. A plan should take into consideration the following:

• Flexibility in the event of unforeseen events
• For parenting time and for pick-up and drop-off responsibilities, for doctor's appointments, after school activities, school, music lessons, sports, etc.
• Time spent with each parent during holidays and school breaks
• Allowances for birthdays, Father's Day, and Mother's Day
• Clearly defined start and end times for holidays and parenting time

Modifications to Custody and Visitation Schedules

If a substantial change in your circumstances requires you to modify an existing custody or parenting time arrangement, you must ask the court to review your case before it can lawfully be modified.

If a new job opportunity or remarriage requires you to relocate to another state with your children, the court must still determine whether it's in the best interest of the children for you to remove them from Illinois permanently. Our northern Illinois child custody lawyers can review your case and discuss the legal options available to you should a modification be necessary.

Contact Our Lake County, Illinois Child Custody Lawyers

Custody and visitation can be contentious during divorce and afterwards. Understanding how to assert your rights and the interests of your children is often key to avoiding an unfavorable custody or parenting time arrangement. If you and your ex-spouse are willing to negotiate, arriving at a custody or visitation arrangement everyone can agree on will help you avoid having a judge decide the matter for you.

To schedule an appointment and discuss your case, contact Libertyville child custody attorneys at Schlesinger & Strauss, LLC, today.