Rolling Meadows, IL Child Custody Lawyer

Family Law Attorney Helping Parents Resolve Child Custody Disputes in Rolling Meadows, Illinois

When parents separate or divorce, some of the biggest disputes they may encounter may be related to child custody. Who will make decisions about children's school, health care, and religion? How much time will each parent spend with children? If you are facing a custody dispute in Rolling Meadows or elsewhere in Cook County, Cosley Law Office can walk you through your options and help you understand what to expect.

Custody disputes can take many different forms. You may be working out a parenting agreement for the first time, dealing with a parent who is not honoring the current schedule, or trying to modify an order that no longer fits your family's situation. Some cases may involve a father who feels he is being treated unfairly or a grandparent hoping to stay involved in a child's life after a major change in the family. Cosley Law Office can help with each of these situations, whether your case is just beginning or has already been through the court once before.

What Does Child Custody Mean Under Illinois Law?

Illinois law generally does not use the word "custody." The general area of child custody includes two separate components: decision-making responsibility and parenting time. Decision-making responsibility covers significant choices about a child's education, health care, extracurricular activities, and religion.

Parenting time, which is commonly called visitation, involves the days and times when children will be with each parent. If you and the other parent cannot agree on a parenting agreement that covers both of these areas, a judge will decide for you.

How Does a Judge Decide Parental Responsibilities?

Under Illinois law, specifically 750 ILCS 5/602.5, a judge must determine how decision-making responsibilities will be handled based on what serves the best interests of the child. A judge does not have to give both parents equal decision-making authority. Instead, they may look at several factors when making these decisions, including:

• The wishes of the parents and, when appropriate, the wishes of the child
• Each parent's past level of involvement in the child's education, health, and daily needs
• The mental and physical health of everyone involved
• Whether either parent has a history of abuse or domestic violence
• How the parents have worked together in the past on decisions about the child

No two families are alike, so a judge will weigh these factors based on the specific facts of each case. There is no guaranteed outcome, and the result can depend heavily on the evidence presented.

Additionally, Illinois law does not favor mothers over fathers, or fathers over mothers, when addressing parental responsibilities. Fathers who are concerned about being treated unfairly in a custody case can learn more about fathers' rights and how Illinois law protects a father's role in his child's life.

Rolling Meadows Lawyer Helping With Parenting Time Schedules and Disputes

Illinois law presumes that both parents are fit to care for their children, and in most cases, a judge will not restrict parenting time unless there is clear evidence that spending time with a parent would put the child's physical, mental, or emotional health at serious risk. If you and the other parent disagree about scheduling, missed time, or how parenting time will be handled, this can lead to ongoing conflict. If you are experiencing visitation problems, our attorneys can help you understand your options, which may include going back to court to enforce the existing order.

In some situations, grandparents and other relatives may also want to ensure that they can spend time with a child, particularly after a divorce or a change in the family structure. Illinois law allows certain family members to petition for visitation under specific circumstances. If you are a grandparent facing this situation, we can help you determine what steps you can take to address your grandparents' rights in Illinois.

Can a Child Custody Order Be Changed Later?

Life circumstances change. A parent may move, change jobs, or face a new health issue that affects the current child custody arrangements. Illinois law allows for modifications of custody orders, but the rules are different depending on what is being changed.

A parenting time schedule can generally be modified when there has been a change in circumstances that affects the child's best interests. Decision-making responsibility, on the other hand, is harder to modify, and it generally cannot be changed within two years after the original order unless there is evidence that a child's health, safety, or well-being may be at risk in their current environment. Because these rules are strict, it is important to discuss your options with an attorney before filing a request to modify an existing child custody order.

How Cosley Law Office Can Help With Your Custody Case in Rolling Meadows

Family law disputes involving children can be stressful, and having the right legal guidance can be crucial. Attorney Donald J. Cosley has more than 30 years of legal experience, and he knows the local rules, judges, and other attorneys in the courtrooms of Cook County. If your case goes to court, you will have a formidable ally in your corner. Mr. Cosley personally handles these matters, and when you call with questions, you will speak directly with him, not a paralegal or another staff member.

Our firm has received more than 75 five-star reviews from clients we have represented in family law matters. We believe our job is to protect your rights and help you determine the best ways to resolve legal concerns that may affect your family. We will provide you with the information you need to make informed choices about your case. At each stage of your case, we will explain your options and the pros and cons of each one so you can make decisions that fit your family's needs.

Contact Our Rolling Meadows Child Custody Lawyer for a Free Consultation

If you are involved in a child custody dispute in Rolling Meadows, Cosley Law Office can help you understand your rights and options. Contact our Rolling Meadows, Illinois child custody attorney online or at 847-253-3100 to schedule a free consultation.