Parenting Plans in Illinois

In Illinois, parenting plans are taken quite seriously by the court. Also known as custody statements in other states, this document outlines how parental time and responsibilities are to be divided by parents post-divorce. Each parent has 120 days from the date they filed for custody to submit their proposed plan.

What Should Be Mentioned in the Parenting Plan

If for some reason parents cannot come to an agreement on the parenting plan, both plans they proposed will be taken into consideration. Some of the elements the court will consider before finalizing it include the following:

• How the children are to be transported from one parent’s home to the other

• Where the children live

• The way each parent will receive information about the children

• How much time the children spend with each parent, and

• How the children should communicate with parents outside of the scheduled time that is outlined in the parenting plan

Because the parenting plan is extensive, referencing samples can help you create a plan that can be feasible in court. Besides this, you must file an appearance in the court as, well as your parenting plan. Even if you are not required to file a plan, it is best to do so, as it may influence the court’s decision.

What You Need to Know About Parenting Plans

• In Illinois, each parent must file a plan within 120 days of asking the court for parental responsibilities.

• If neither parent files a plan, the decision to assign parental responsibilities falls to the court. The decisions are finalized according to the child’s best interests, not the parents’.

• Both parents can file a single plan if they agree to it, especially in regard to parenting time.

Contact Our Chicago Family Law Attorney To Discuss Parenting Plans

You can create your own plan, but it would be wiser to have an attorney present or ask an attorney to create a parenting plan for you. If you are going through a divorce in Schaumburg, Illinois and need a lawyer who can represent you and your family’s best interests in court, get in touch with the Law Office of Fedor Kozlov today.

Our experienced attorneys can help you through the case, ensuring the least amount of hassle and stress. The longer you delay the plan, the worse it will be for your children. Get in touch with us for a consultation today.

(Updated 9/12/2024)