Parenting After Divorce
If you’re a parent facing divorce in Illinois, brace yourself for a change. “Child custody” is out; “Allocation of Parental Responsibilities and Parenting Time” is in. This isn’t just a change in wording; it signifies a major shift in how Illinois approaches parenting after separation or divorce.
At Flat Fee Divorce Solutions, I understand navigating legal jargon and court processes can feel overwhelming. So, let’s break down what this change means for you and your children.
Goodbye “Custody Battles,” Hello Cooperative Parenting After Divorce
The term “custody” often implied a winner-takes-all mentality, fueling conflict and damaging parent-child relationships. Illinois recognized this and opted for a more collaborative approach.
The new terminology, “Allocation of Parental Responsibilities and Parenting Time,” emphasizes that both parents play essential roles in a child’s life, even after divorce. This shift fosters a more cooperative environment where parents work together, not against each other.
Parenting Decisions After Divorce
Allocating parental responsibilities involves assigning decision-making authority regarding your child’s well-being:
- Education: Choosing schools and educational programs.
- Healthcare: Selecting doctors, dentists, and making medical decisions.
- Religion: Deciding on your child’s spiritual or religious upbringing.
- Extracurricular Activities: Determining which sports, clubs, or organizations your child participates in.
Parents can share these responsibilities, or the court may allocate sole decision-making in certain areas. The guiding principle remains consistent: what is in the child’s best interests?
Parenting Time After Divorce: A New Focus on Both Parents
Parenting time outlines the schedule for each parent to spend time with their child. It includes details about weekdays, weekends, holidays, and vacations.
Illinois courts now encourage both parents to have substantial involvement in their child’s life. The old notion of one parent having “primary custody” with the other getting limited “visitation” is fading. This is a positive change, especially for fathers who historically had less involvement. The new framework explicitly recognizes their importance in a child’s life.
Your Child’s Best Interests Remain Paramount
While terminology and approaches evolve, one constant remains: the court prioritizes your child’s best interests above all else.
Factors considered include:
- The child’s relationship with each parent
- Each parent’s wishes
- The child’s adjustment to home, school, and community
- The mental and physical health of all involved
- Any history of abuse or neglect
What Does This Mean for You?
This legal shift means you have more flexibility to create a parenting plan that truly benefits your child. Consider these key points:
- Co-parenting is Key: Open communication, cooperation, and compromise are essential for a successful shared parenting arrangement.
- Flexibility is Necessary: Children grow and their needs change. Be ready to adapt your parenting plan as your child matures.
- Seek Guidance: Consult an experienced family law attorney to understand your rights and create a plan that works for your family.
I am Here to Help
At Flat Fee Divorce Solutions, I believe that all parents deserve the chance to be fully involved in their children’s lives. Because I so strongly believe this, I no longer represent people for custody battles — they only work to remove one parent from a child’s life. Contact me to arrange a consultation and let me help you create a brighter future for your family.
Disclaimer: This blog post is separate from legal services. While informative, it’s not legal advice nor does it form an attorney-client relationship. Seek an attorney for your specific legal needs.