Parental alienation occurs when one parent intentionally influences a child to reject or show hostility toward the other parent. This behavior can harm the child’s relationship with the alienated parent and affect their emotional well-being. Courts in Illinois take...
Child Custody
Steps to take when preparing for a custody battle
Child custody battles can be stressful and complex. Even just preparing to confront your co-parent can be anxiety-inducing, but there are essential points to keep in mind that can make it easier to approach the process. Illinois courts focus on the best interests of...
3 ways domestic violence allegations impact child custody
Child custody refers to the legal determination of which parent has the right to decide about a child's upbringing and where the child will live. In Illinois, courts prioritize the child's best interests when making custody decisions. This process ensures the parents...
The role of child advocates during high-conflict custody battles
Child advocates serve to protect the child's best interests during divorce cases. This service is especially crucial in high-conflict cases that are complex and emotionally charged. In heated divorce proceedings, it can be challenging for parents to come to...
Custody decisions in cases of parental substance abuse
When deciding custody, courts prioritize the child’s best interests. This becomes especially important when one parent has a history of substance abuse. Courts carefully evaluate the situation to determine what environment will be safest and most stable for the child....
How to stay positive in a custody battle in Illinois
Going through a custody battle in Illinois can be a challenging and emotionally draining experience. It is important to stay positive and focused during this time, not only for your own well-being but also for your child's. Maintaining a positive outlook can help you...
What is the role of custody evaluators?
Custody evaluations play a vital role in child custody cases in Illinois. They help the court decide what is best for the child. An evaluator may be a licensed mental health professional, a psychologist or a social worker. They can also be a psychiatrist with...
Why do courts award sole custody?
When it comes to divorce, most courts strive to award joint custody. However, courts may elect to award sole custody to one parent based on the circumstances. Family court decisions can be emotionally charged and complex. Accordingly, you must consider the factors...
Understanding the effects of denied parenting time
Parenting time denial occurs when one parent restricts or prevents the other parent from spending time with their child. This can have significant and lasting effects on children, parents and families as a whole. Parents approaching divorce should review the effects...
The prevalence of non-residential parents
In today's world, it is quite common to find kids living with one parent while the other parent lives somewhere else. This happens when parents separate, get divorced or have other reasons for not living together. Parents should understand how many kids are in this...