There are two overall presumptions in Lake County parenting time determinations: The orders must be in the best interests of the children, and the orders must allow children to have consistent and meaningful contact with both their parents. Sometimes, these presumptions line up perfectly. Typically, however, there is at least some conflict. In situations like these, it is important that both you and your children have a strong voice throughout the family law proceedings, which a Vernon Hills child custody lawyer can provide.
At the Andrea Heckman Law, we provide that strong voice. We begin with diligent hard work because successful cases are built one brick at a time. Then, we fight for your rights in the courtroom and at the negotiating table. Your family will still need you even after the divorce is final. Our job is to ensure the smoothest transition possible in a way that is fair to everyone involved.
In contested parenting time cases, judges use a number of factors to flesh out the presumptions mentioned above. As a general rule, most parents agree on broad principles but disagree as to the specifics. For example, both parents might agree that a child needs extra help in school, but they may disagree as to how this help should come. To assist in these and other decisions, Illinois law lays out a number of factors to consider. Some of them are:
Other important factors include the child’s wishes and the physical environment that the parent can offer the children.
The vast majority of Lake County family law matters – over 80% by most counts – settle out of court during mediation. This process can be an informal exchange of settlement offers over time, or it could be a formal session with a neutral mediator.
In either case, mediation usually has substantial benefits over a trial. The financial cost of mediation is much lower than a trial. The emotional cost is lower, as well. Furthermore, trials are adversarial by nature. Mediation, on the other hand, often sets the stage for successful co-parenting. Usually, everyone benefits from that outcome, especially the children. Finally, mediation gives the parties more control over the outcome. That could mean fewer trips back to the courthouse for modification and enforcement matters.
Sometimes, the finality of a trial is best. If that is the case, we are always prepared to go the distance for our clients.
Parenting time disputes rest on a number of different factors and can be resolved in several different ways. For a free consultation with an experienced family law attorney in Vernon Hills, contact the Andrea Heckman Law Convenient payment plans are available.
Please contact our law office in Rolling Meadows for legal assistance with divorce, child custody, or visitation issues. We serve clients in the Chicago metropolitan area who need the help of an experienced and dedicated family law attorney.