Fathers’ rights activists are again pushing for a change in Illinois family law regarding equal parenting time and responsibility. Instead of the current standard where a judge assigns parenting time and custody to reflect the best interests of the child, supporters of a new bill would like to see a rebuttable presumption in divorce cases granting parents equal time from the start.
Illinois Parenting Time and Custody Determinations
As it stands, however, the best interest of the child is still the standard by which parenting time and responsibility is decided in Illinois. It may be that equal time with both parents is in the best interests of the child, but a judge must consider many factors when making a determination. Some questions a judge might ask include:
- Do the parents live in close proximity to one another making the child’s commute between locations easier? It may not be fair to ask a young child to shuttle back and forth regularly between locations that require a long commute.
- What work schedules do the parents have? Young children and even teens require supervision so a parent’s work schedule will figure into parenting time for the benefit of the children.
- How old are the children? Is it too impactful to constantly shift environments based on their age? Each situation is unique and requires thoughtful arrangements.
- What level of involvement did each parent have leading up to the separation? Certainly, situations change and both parents may be ready to be involved with the children on a regular basis but a gradual transition may be in the child’s best interest.
There are many more factors a judge may consider when trying to serve a child’s best interests regarding parenting time and responsibility following a divorce. Barring situations of child abuse and neglect or addiction problems involving a parent that may require a closer look, judges generally try to strike an arrangement where a child can benefit from a relationship with both parents.
Contact an Experienced Illinois Parenting Time | Child Custody Lawyer for Help
If you have concerns regarding Illinois parenting time and responsibility it is important to discuss you situation with an experienced child custody lawyer. It may be that you have concerns regarding your child’s well-being when faced with big changes in their routine. Or, you may be a parent who feels that they are being unfairly characterized and, therefore, cut off from a relationship with a child.
Securing the help of an experienced custody lawyer who can effectively raise your concerns can make all the difference in a child custody determination that strives to ensure the child’s best interests. Contact Lake county Illinois child custody lawyer Ronald L. Bell & Associates PC for immediate assistance at 847-495-6000.