A parenting time arrangement entered into during a divorce may serve a family’s needs well for a period of time, but circumstances may change requiring a modification to a parenting time order. When you have experienced a significant change in circumstances, an experienced Illinois parenting time attorney can help you modify the existing parenting time agreement.
Certainly some parents may already be following a different parenting time arrangement out of convenience, but keep in mind the original parenting time orders are legally binding until modified through the court. It is important to make the changes official so that neither parent is on the wrong side of a court order. The good news is that If you and the other parent already agree, the court will likely to allow the modification if it continues to represent the child’s best interests.
Best interest factors may include each parent’s preference regarding parenting time; the preference of the child if he or she is mature enough to weigh in; the level of involvement each parent has with the child; the child’s living situation with regard to school attendance, community, friends and family; and other relevant factors.
Common reasons for requesting a modification to the parenting time order may include a change in a parent’s location making the current plan unworkable; a change in a parent’s work schedule; a change in the child’s schedule; the age of the child; and other pertinent issues.
When your family needs a parenting time modification, contact an experienced Illinois child custody lawyer for assistance. Call family law attorney Ronald L Bell & Associates P.C. for help today 847-495-6000.