Accusing a parent of being unfit is a serious matter that Illinois courts take very seriously. To have your children’s other parent deemed unfit by the court, however, you’ll need to prove your claim. Courts recognize that in the heat of divorce or custody battles, parents can be driven to make claims that may or may not be true in the eyes of the law, and they are careful to do the necessary investigating before identifying a parent as unfit, which can have serious implications in terms of their parental rights and responsibilities.Â
If you have questions or concerns about how fit your children’s other parent is, it’s time to consult with an experienced Chicago child custody attorney.Â
Illinois law deems parents who cannot be trusted with the care of their children unfit, but it is not a black-and-white matter. There are varying degrees of unfitness – each of which must be clearly proven. The more serious the determination of a parent’s unfitness, the more significantly it will affect their parenting time or physical custody and parental responsibilities or legal custody.Â
In order to have your children’s other parent deemed unfit, you’ll need to demonstrate that they engage in some form of dangerous parenting practice, such as any of the following:
If you believe your children’s other parent is unfit, you probably have a wide range of reasons for coming to this difficult conclusion, but you’ll need to prove the matter to the court, which involves evidence. Examples tend to include:
Without clear evidence to the contrary, Illinois courts find that children’s best interests are best served when they are allowed to maintain strong relationships with both parents, which means they won’t declare a parent unfit without a solid basis for doing so.
The practiced Chicago child custody attorneys at Andrea Heckman Law recognize the gravity of cases involving unfit parents and have the compassion and drive to help. Learn more by contacting us today.
Walked in just for consultation, and in less than 45 days, my case was closed! Thanks to attorney Andrea Heckman, with all her passion and professional manner! Couldn’t be happier! Thank you so much for everything! Great attorney for all family needs! Thank you.
From the moment I walked in as a client to the end when everything was complete, I was very pleased with attorney Andrea Heckman, her knowledge, and professionalism! Her whole staff was always helpful. I would use them again if needed and refer them to everyone I know! Thank you.
Andrea Heckman has been my attorney helping/guiding/advocating for my children and I regarding my custody situation. We are in the process of working towards a more equal parenting schedule, and I have faith in her efforts and expertise to accomplish this.
I have used this office since 2018 and have nothing but excellent things to say. Andrea Heckman handled my divorce with no faults. Andrea is currently handling my child custody case and has been on top of everything! Andrea Heckman is an unstoppable force, and I would recommend her to anyone!
I could not ask for a better attorney to represent me during my case which is Andrea Heckman. Anytime I had any questions, I got a response in a timely manner. Andrea walked me through a very difficult time which was a divorce/child custody case. Andrea is very knowledgeable and motivating. The staff has been nothing but welcoming and professional. If I have to go to court for anything, I will definitely be giving this firm a call again.
Heckman Law is handling my divorce/custody. Andrea is very professional, knowledgeable, and responsive. She will take the time to answer and explain any questions you may have. She usually responds within a few hours. Honest about possible outcomes, whether it’s good or bad news. My ex doesn’t want to negotiate or cooperate with anything. Andrea is willing to fight in the courtroom for you. The case is ongoing.
I was represented by Andrea Heckman, and if it wasn’t for her, I would have been so lost. She guided me through my difficult situation. Some lawyers are about money. I knew that Andrea cared about me and my situation.
Ms. Heckman is a great lawyer. She helped me get time with my daughter when my ex was being nasty and refusing to let me see my baby. I thank her for all her hard work.
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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.