Child Custody

Families preparing for divorce and shared custody often need to explore creative solutions for meeting the needs of their children. Some parents may decide that a birdnesting custody arrangement is a viable solution. In traditional shared custody arrangements, the...

In any situation where a child’s parents are no longer a couple, child custody can become a critical (and hard-fought) concern.  Custody decisions not only directly impact the well-being of the children involved, but they also affect each parent’s rights and the...

Any time that there’s a conflict over child custody, the emotional stakes can be pretty high – and the legal terrain can be complex.  In many instances, it is wise (or outright necessary) to involve a guardian ad litem (GAL) in a custody case.  A guardian ad litem is...

Dealing with a visit from the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) can be a stressful experience for any family.  While the primary goal of DCFS is to ensure the safety and well-being of children, parents need to be prepared and informed about...

When parents go through a divorce, one of the most painful realizations that they may face is that their relationship with their children will go through some changes. Even though shared custody is the norm these days, that still means that your child won’t be living...

When parents divorce, the number one concern they usually have is the well-being of their children – and ensuring stability in their routine through consistent child care can be essential. If you have a nanny that you trust, that can be invaluable when it comes to...

Divorce is hard on everybody, but especially the children. Usually, the spouses both do their best to reassure the kids that both parents still love them very much and will continue to do so even though they are not married anymore. This reduces the trauma and helps...

Custody orders and parenting plans break down the allocation of parental rights and responsibilities via legally-enforceable documents. Some divorcing couples negotiate parenting plans at the end of their marriages, and even unmarried couples need to formally divide...

High-conflict divorce can be complicated and lengthy, especially when it involves child custody disputes and property division. Luckily, Illinois law allows a petitioner for temporary court orders addressing issues like child custody and spousal support. Here is what...

Creating a parenting plan can be one of the most challenging aspects of divorce for parents, especially when emotions are running high. However, having a clear and comprehensive parenting plan in place can help ensure that both parents maintain a healthy and...