Custody decisions in the state of Illinois are based on the best interest of the child, and typically if there is no history of abuse or neglect, joint custody is often deemed to be the most appropriate solution. State statutes call for consideration of the wishes of the child (if age appropriate), the quality of the relationship between the children and their parents as well as their siblings and other close relatives, and the parents’ ability to successfully co-parent, among other factors.
What Does it Mean When You Are Awarded Joint Custody?
When you are faced with custodial agreements as part of the dissolution of your Illinois marriage, a Highland Park child custody attorney can provide the advice that you need. Many parents do not completely understand how joint custody works and consider anything less than full custody as a loss. That is not always the case.
Joint custody does not always mean equal custody, and in Illinois, the judge can determine the percentage of time that the child, or children, spend with each parent. With that in mind, it is easy to understand how the process of determining child custody can become so contentious. If you are facing an unpleasant custody dispute, a Highland Park child custody attorney can provide the advice and guidance you need to navigate this complex process.
Is a Joint Parenting Agreement the Right Solution for Your Family?
If the parents have a good co-parenting mindset they can craft their own agreement which the court will review and approve. While there will be some review and oversight once the agreement is put into place, this option allows the parents more control over their family’s custodial arrangements. If the parents are unable to come to an agreement on their own, the court will issue a Joint Parenting Order.
With either outcome, the advice of a Highland Park child custody attorney will likely prove invaluable.
