When you are in the middle of a divorce, everything can feel uncertain. One of the most common fears is losing access to your child’s daily life. Without a final parenting plan, you might worry that you have lost your right to stay informed.
Fortunately, Illinois law offers hope to your concern. Understanding state regulations on parental responsibilities is key to protecting your rights as a parent.
Your statutory right to information
In Illinois, both parents have a legal right to access their child’s records. This applies to several types of records, including:
- Medical and dental: Test results, doctor’s notes and prescriptions
- School: Report cards, extracurricular activities and disciplinary records
- Child care: Reports and updates from daycare or after-school programs
Doctors, teachers and child care providers cannot deny you access, even if the judge has not officially allocated parental responsibilities yet. This means you do not have to wait for a final judgment to know how your child is performing at school or their current medical condition.
What schools must provide
Under the Illinois School Student Records Act, the school must grant you access to inspect and copy your child’s temporary and permanent records. Once you submit a written request, the school generally must facilitate this within 10 business days. This ensures that you do not miss a parent-teacher conference or a major milestone.
Navigating roadblocks with professional help
Your parental rights offer protection to gain access to your child’s life. However, reality can be complex. A school administrator or medical office can be hesitant to release your child’s records. If you are feeling shut out, consulting a family law attorney can help ensure your rights as a parent remain protected throughout litigation.
