Working for the Children
Custody and visitation present two of the biggest issues in any divorce proceeding. It is often quite difficult for a divorcing couple to come to any amicable agreement regarding the details of care, visiting times and the primary residence of the children. If you are facing child custody and visitation issues in DuPage County, Illinois, you need an experienced, professional attorney on your side.
From my Oakbrook Terrace law firm, I focus on settling child custody and visitation issues as quickly as possible — before the trial even starts, if possible. I settle matters quickly, because I know that prolonged conflict is not good for the children.
Legal Custody
Legal custody determinations consider several aspects of a child's future, including parental decision-making authority regarding religion, education and medical issues.
There are a few aspects of legal custody that need to be considered in every divorce that involves children:
- Physical custody refers to where the child lives.
- Sole Custody refers to one party having full authority to make all the major decisions for the child.
- Joint custody means parents share responsibility for major decisions about the children.
Custody issues must be settled within 18 months after the filing of the initial petition for dissolution of marriage.
Visitation/Parenting Time
Parenting time refers to how much time the children spend with each parent. Once the initial pleading is filed, the court will issue a status date, usually within 90 days of the initial filing. If the divorcing parties do not have a parenting schedule by then, the court refers the parties to mediation, wherein the parties work with the assistance of an experienced mediator to assist them in reaching an agreement.
As an attorney, I excel at helping divorcing parties reach quick, amicable settlements, so that I can help make sure you have a visitation plan well before the status date.
Exceptional Legal Services
In 2010, Illinois Super Lawyers selected me as a Rising Star, an honor given to only 2.5 percent of Illinois attorneys with 10 years or less of legal experience.
I offer free initial consultations to discuss your custody and visitation issues. Contact me today.
