Illinois Parenting Plans 101

 Posted on February 13, 2024 in Child Custody

A major topic in divorce relates to how parents raise their children when they are no longer married. In Illinois, parents need to file something called a parenting plan with the court. This is essentially an outline that dictates every aspect of how their children will be cared for, both physically and mentally, since it includes things like where the child will live and which parents can make various important decisions on their behalf. When formulating a parenting plan, having a knowledgeable Kane County, IL child custody lawyer on your side can be invaluable for helping you sort through all the aspects and factors involved.

Aspects of a Parenting Plan

Parents often formulate their parenting plan after careful consideration outside the courtroom and then submit it to the court for approval. Parenting plans are extremely important because they enable both the parents and the children to have realistic expectations of how things will go after a divorce is finalized.

In general, a parenting plan needs to include the following:

• Parenting time: Formally known as visitation, this refers to the amount of time the child is with each of their parents. In the state of Illinois, both parents are generally granted parenting time unless the parent poses a risk to the child.
• Parental responsibilities: This refers to the ability to make important decisions on behalf of a child who is a minor. The kinds of decisions that are distributed in the division of parental responsibilities include what religion they might be raised in, what school they will go to, and what types of medical treatment they can receive.
• Access to records: There is usually a provision included that addresses who can have access to the child’s medical, academic, and other important records.
• Emergency contact: Often, there is room for only one emergency contact to be notified in the case of an emergency regarding the child in their school, on an airplane, etc. Parenting plans can include a provision that whichever parent is informed of such an emergency must notify the other parent.

In addition to this list, there are several other aspects that can be included in a parenting plan. Some parents might want to include a provision for how they might deal with conflicts that can arise as they are carrying out their parenting plan through mediation or other means. Some parenting plans might include guidelines for how a parent can communicate with their child when the child is having parenting time with the other parent. It is always advisable to hire an experienced child custody lawyer who is familiar with the intricate details of a parenting plan and can ensure that your parental rights are being protected.

Schedule a Free Consultation with a St. Charles, IL Child Custody Lawyer

As you begin thinking about what sort of parenting plan might suit you and your child, a Kane County, IL parenting plan attorney can offer vital guidance and advocate compassionately for your parental rights. At Goostree Law Group, we offer free consultations. Call 630-584-4800 to schedule yours so we can help figure out what provisions are important to you.