Naperville Child Custody Attorneys
Naperville Child Custody Attorneys
The most heated and sensitive matters in a divorce are often those regarding child custody, which is also called parental responsibility in Illinois. Even if the couple can come to an amicable agreement on the other crucial issues in a divorce, child custody can be an inherent sticking point. If this sounds familiar, it is in your best interest to contact a Naperville child custody attorney for help. At the Goodman Law Firm LLC, we will advocate aggressively for your parental rights and what is best for your children.
How is Child Custody Determined if the Parents Cannot Agree?
Ideally, parents will reach an agreement on a reasonable child custody arrangement. Your Naperville child custody lawyer can help you do this. However, if you are not able to, a family court judge will be in charge of the matter and make the final decision about how child custody will be awarded. The judge is always required to act in the best interest of the child involved. The judge will review several factors when making a child custody decision, including:
- The desires of the child if they are mature enough to express their wishes
- The relationships between the parents and whether one parent is more likely to encourage a healthy relationship with the other parent
- Where the child is already established or the specific area where the child is already going to school or otherwise involved in the community
- The physical distance between the parents’ respective residences
- Any history of mental health issues, criminal activities, and addiction issues that either parent may have
- Any history of abuse related to either parent
Important Child Custody Points to Know
There are many elements of child custody that are crucial for both parents to understand. When you hire a knowledgeable Naperville child custody attorney, they can ensure that you are aware of everything you need to know.
While the court intends for child custody orders to be permanent, it also understands that circumstances can change that warrant a modification to the child custody order. If your situation changes, you can petition the court for an official change to the custody orders.
Unless the court gives its consent, neither parent is allowed to alter or refuse to comply with the court-ordered custody arrangement. For example, one parent cannot determine that they can refuse to take their child for a scheduled visit with the other parent because they did not pay child support this month. The court will address the lack of payment, but if a parent refuses visitation, they can be held in contempt of court.
Speak with a Naperville Child Custody Lawyer
If you are going through a divorce that involves child custody issues or if you need help modifying an existing child custody agreement, don’t hesitate to contact the Goodman Law Firm LLC. We are skilled and experienced in child custody cases. Our attorneys aren’t afraid to stand up for our clients’ rights while protecting the best interests of the children involved. Contact us today to book your child custody consultation with an experienced Naperville child custody attorney.
FAQs About Divorce in Illinois
What should I do if I have been served with divorce papers?
If you have received service of divorce papers, contact an experienced divorce attorney to review the documents, understand your rights, and plan your next steps. Time is critical in divorce proceedings, and having skilled legal counsel from the start can make all the difference.
How can I prepare for my initial consultation with a divorce attorney?
Bring documents such as financial records, prenuptial agreements, and a list of any questions you have. Be prepared to discuss your relevant goals and concerns openly and honestly. The more information you provide, the better we can assess your situation and develop a strategy that serves your best interests.
How are collaborative law, mediation, and negotiation different?
- Collaborative law is a structured process where both parties and their attorneys commit to resolving the divorce without going to court. It involves open communication and cooperation, with the goal of reaching a mutually beneficial agreement.
- In mediation, a neutral third-party mediator facilitates discussions to help divorcing parties reach a mutual agreement. Rather than making decisions, the mediator guides the negotiation process toward productive outcomes.
- Negotiation involves discussions between the parties directly or their attorneys to settle divorce terms. Unlike mediation, there is no neutral third party.
What should I expect during the divorce process?
The process typically involves filing for divorce, exchanging information, negotiating terms, and finalizing the agreement. If negotiations fail, courtroom litigation will become part of the process.
What happens if my spouse refuses to cooperate during the divorce?
If your spouse is uncooperative, the court may have to intervene to resolve disputes. At Goodman Law Firm, our attorney has experience in handling contentious cases and will advocate for your interests even in circumstances where spousal cooperation is limited.