Naperville Child Custody Attorneys

Attorneys Protecting Children's Best Interests in Naperville, IL Child Custody Matters

When you choose to divorce or separate as the parent of minor children, one of the hardest things to deal with is adjusting to the fact that your children will be away from you while they are spending time with their other parent. The allocation of parental responsibilities, formerly referred to as child custody, often leads to arguments and heartbreak. It can be very challenging to focus on what is best for your children without letting resentment for the other parent stand in the way of making good decisions. You need to trust your family law attorney's guidance as you address these concerns.

Choosing Goostree Law Group means you benefit from the first-hand knowledge we have gained by helping other Illinois families make tough custody decisions. We know the applicable laws and how to create tailored custody plans to satisfy your objectives and protect your children's best interests. As experienced negotiators, we can work toward reaching a mutually acceptable agreement with your co-parent. Some couples may benefit from mediation, while others may choose to let the courts rule. Whichever avenue you choose, we will be by your side offering support and exceptional legal counsel.

Protecting Your Parental Rights When Drafting Your Naperville, Illinois Parenting Plan

Illinois law requires that separating and divorcing parents create a parenting plan that outlines how they will handle various aspects of their children's upbringing. At the very least, you need to decide how you will share authority to make major decisions for your children and when they will spend time with each parent. Your plan should also detail things like child support, how physical custody transfers will be handled, dependent tax exemptions, and basic guidelines regarding communications.

Legal Custody

As parents, you need to make important choices regarding your children's education, healthcare options, and religious upbringing. Legal custody, or parental responsibilities, can give one or both parents decision-making authority in different areas. In many cases, both parents will keep that authority, although one may be granted tie-breaker status if you and your co-parent cannot agree. Sometimes, only one of you may retain responsibilities in certain areas if that is the best way to protect your children's best interests.

Physical Custody

The term "parenting time" is now used to describe the time your children spend with each parent. One of you may have primary physical custody, with the other having regular parenting time with your children. Every situation is different, and the same parenting time arrangements and visitation schedule will not work for everyone. In most cases, children need to nourish relationships with both parents. However, maintaining a relationship with an unfit parent or one who poses a danger to the children may not be healthy.

Your lawyer will first get to know you, your children's needs, your objectives, and potential challenges that may arise as you address child custody matters. We will work with you to create a comprehensive plan based on our discussions and the best interests of your children.

Negotiation, Mediation, and Litigation in Naperville Child Custody Matters

There is more than one way to resolve disputes that may arise when drafting your parenting plan, and the same method will not work for every family. With negotiation, your respective lawyers can help you come to an agreement. Mediation uses a neutral third party to help you find common ground. These options let you keep more control, and they are usually faster and less expensive than litigation. In addition, it is often difficult to be effective co-parents after a bitter court battle. However, if a trial is best for your situation, you will benefit from our extensive litigation skills and our deep understanding of the local courts.

Overcoming Illinois Child Custody Challenges

Whether you are drafting a new custody agreement or have existing orders, challenges may arise. You need a competent attorney to address them correctly. For example, your situation may include:

• Parental relocation
• Children with special needs
• An unfit parent and the need to sever parental rights
• The need to dispute or establish paternity
• Incarceration or criminal charges
• Modifications or enforcement of your parenting plan

Whatever your situation, we will help you protect your children while advocating for your best interests.

Contact Our Naperville, Illinois Child Custody Lawyers

Goostree Law Group understands the significant impact that child custody matters can have on your life, so you can rely on our unwavering support throughout the legal process. We offer initial consultations at no charge. Schedule your appointment now by contacting us online or calling 630-584-4800.