Visitation Rights Lawyer Chicago, IL
When it comes to child custody and visitation rights, our visitation rights lawyer Chicago, IL relies on knows that things can be extremely complicated. These types of issues are never simple and can become increasingly complicated if the parents are hostile toward one another. When parents are not living together and children have to go from one house to another, it is important to have some kind of schedule for the children to rely on and if the parents are not getting along, this may mean the child does not get to see one parent as much as they should. If you believe your visitation rights have been abused and you would like to speak with our attorney, please give us a call. We care about upholding your rights.
Is Joint Custody Possible?
Child custody means providing care for your children, and a visitation rights lawyer in Chicago, Illinois can help ensure you’re able to see your kids as often as possible. If you’re not sure whether or not you’ll have custody, it’s best to contact a lawyer as soon as you can: The right legal team and the right information can make all the difference.
Child custody is usually awarded to whatever parent seems like they can provide the best future for their children. The other parent will receive visitation rights – if they’re lucky. Read on to learn more about the responsibilities of child custody, and see how a visitation rights lawyer in Chicago, IL can help you take part in your kids’ lives.
What are my responsibilities as a custodial parent?
If you’ve been awarded custody, you’ll have to provide for your children. This means food and shelter, taking them to school, the doctor’s, and any other extracurricular activities. As the custodial parent, you have the most responsibility for your children’s wellbeing, and you’re in charge of making sure they’re raised right.
If you haven’t been awarded custody, you’ll still be able to see your children unless there were special circumstances (such as alleged abuse) that might prohibit you from visiting your kids. If you have visitation rights, you’re still responsible for your children’s wellbeing: You may have to pay child support, and during visits you still need to provide shelter and food and everything else they may need to be comfortable.
What is a fixed visitation schedule?
A judge will typically place someone on a fixed visitation schedule if there is animosity between the parents and you are having a hard time resolving your issues. If you have gone to court and a judge has put you on a fixed visitation schedule, it means that they will determine certain times (and in some cases certain places) where you (the non-custodial parent) will meet with your children. For example, a judge may say that every weekend, Saturday and Sunday, you will have the opportunity to see your kids, in addition to certain holidays and special events.
What is reasonable visitation?
This is a much better situation, typically, because it means that if a judge says you are given reasonable visitation they believe that you and your child’s other parent have a good enough relationship to where you can both come up with visitation rights that make sense to you. Our Chicago, Illinois visitation rights lawyer knows that typically in these situations, the custodial parent will have more influence over what reasonable visitation means and you will want to have an attorney on your side to ensure your rights are not forgotten.
Set Up Your Consultation with Us Now!
We understand that when you are no longer with your child’s other parent you want to be able to see your kids as often as possible. This situation can become quite complicated, which is why having an attorney there to protect your rights is paramount. Want to learn more about visitation rights? Contact our lawyer for visitation rights in Chicago, IL now.
What is Joint Custody?
In some cases, it’s possible to be awarded joint custody. Joint custody means both parents are willing to work together for the good of their children. While the parents may divorce, they’ll still share responsibilities when it comes to childrearing. Joint custody isn’t easy, however, and it requires cooperation on the part of both parents.
Joint custody is determined by a number of different factors, and a judge may or may not award joint custody depending on whether or not these requirements are satisfied. Both parents need to show that they are willing to cooperate for the good of their children, and both parents need to be able to prove that they had an equal hand in the development of their kids. It’s also important for both parents to live close to one another.
Contact Hurst, Robin, Kay & Allen, LLC Today
You deserve a chance to take part in raising your children, even if you and your spouse are separated. Whether you can both agree to the terms of joint custody is up to the two of you – and your lawyers. If a divorce is inevitable and you need to part ways, your children shouldn’t have to suffer. Contact Hurst, Robin, Kay & Allen, LLC, and see how we can help you give them the best future possible.
At Hurst, Robin, Kay & Allen, LLC, we understand that divorce is a painful and bitter process, and we know that your children deserve the best – whether or not their parents are still together. We can provide personalized case management to ensure you get to spend the most time possible with your children, and we can help you understand the ins and outs of child custody. Reach out to us today, and see how a visitation rights lawyer in Chicago, IL, can help.
Factors That Determine Which Parent Has Majority Custody
When parents separate or divorce, determining which parent will have majority custody of the children is often a central concern. Courts focus on what arrangement will best serve the child’s well-being while taking into account various factors. While every situation is unique, certain elements play a significant role in custody decisions. If you require assistance with a custody matter, contact our Chicago, IL visitation rights lawyer today.
With over 100 years of combined experience, our dedicated family lawyers have the knowledge necessary to help you with your case. Our firm has assisted thousands of clients in Illinois, and we will fight hard for you. We strongly believe that every client matters, and we strive to provide the passionate, personalized, and compassionate service that you deserve. Contact Hurst, Robin & Kay, LLC today to schedule a consultation.
- The Child’s Best Interests
The overarching factor in custody decisions is the child’s best interests. Courts evaluate the child’s emotional, physical, and educational needs and determine which parent is better equipped to meet them. This broad consideration encompasses many specific elements, from the child’s daily routine to their emotional stability in each household. It is important to keep the child’s interests and needs in mind throughout the entire process of a custody case.
- The Relationship Between the Child and Each Parent
The bond between a child and each parent is another critical factor. Courts often look at the quality of these relationships, assessing how each parent has supported the child’s emotional and developmental needs. A parent who has been actively involved in the child’s life—attending school events, helping with homework, and fostering a supportive environment—is likely to be viewed favorably.
- Stability and Continuity
Maintaining stability in a child’s life is a priority for most courts. Factors like the child’s current school, community, and social connections are considered. If one parent can provide a living arrangement that minimizes disruption to the child’s routine, this may weigh in their favor. Courts generally aim to keep children in environments where they feel secure and supported.
- Parental Cooperation and Communication
The ability of each parent to cooperate and communicate effectively about the child’s needs is a significant consideration. Courts often favor the parent who is more willing to foster a positive relationship between the child and the other parent. Demonstrating a commitment to shared parenting and open communication can make a difference in the custody outcome. Avoiding fights and conflict can not only help your chances at custody but also make this process easier for your child.
- The Parent’s Living Situation
The court also evaluates the living conditions each parent can provide. Factors such as the size and safety of the home, proximity to the child’s school, and the presence of other family members may all be considered. A stable and nurturing home environment is critical when determining custody arrangements. Our Chicago visitation rights attorney can help you understand how your living situation may impact your chances of receiving favorable custody.
- The Child’s Preference
In some cases, the child’s preference is taken into account, particularly if the child is old enough to express a reasonable and informed opinion. While a child’s wishes are not the sole deciding factor, they can carry weight depending on the circumstances and the child’s age and maturity.
- Any History of Abuse or Neglect
A history of abuse or neglect is heavily scrutinized in custody decisions. Courts prioritize the child’s safety, and any evidence of harmful behavior can significantly impact a parent’s ability to obtain majority custody. This includes physical, emotional, or substance-related issues that could put the child at risk.
- Each Parent’s Ability to Meet the Child’s Needs
Finally, the court assesses the overall ability of each parent to meet the child’s needs. This includes providing emotional support, ensuring educational success, and managing health and medical requirements. Parents who demonstrate a consistent ability to prioritize the child’s well-being are often favored. Our Illinois visitation rights lawyer can help you understand how the courts view and prioritize the parent’s ability to meet the child’s needs.
Contact Our Chicago Visitation Rights Lawyer Today
Determining custody is a challenging process that requires careful consideration of numerous factors. At Hurst, Robin & Kay, LLC, we work closely with families to provide guidance and representation tailored to their needs. If you have questions about custody or need assistance from our dedicated visitation rights lawyer, we’re here to help. Contact us today to learn how we can support you and your family through this process.