Due to changes in Illinois state family law, child custody is now referred to as parental responsibilities, still, the definition remains the same. If a parent is awarded parental responsibilities, they will essentially be granted custodial privileges. In the state of Illinois, parents can be awarded decision-making power as well as parenting time. While many couples seek to secure the overwhelming majority or all of the parental responsibilities in a divorce, the truth is that sharing parental responsibilities can be in your child’s best interest. If you are seeking a divorce, it is critically important to speak with a knowledgeable parental responsibilities attorney.
Your Child Maintains a Relationship With Both Parents: While visitation rights can still be granted in a divorce in which one parent is awarded all parental responsibilities, a child can benefit greatly from living and experiencing life with both parents. If you and your spouse both believe that you are capable parents, it may be time to work with your attorney to come to an agreement on the issues surrounding parental responsibilities, such as parenting time. Working with your spouse to develop a parenting plan can ensure that you have the flexibility to develop a schedule that will be conducive to your child’s lifestyle.
Maintaining a Positive Relationship With Your Former-Spouse: While many people think of divorce as a hostile experience, the truth of the matter is that many marriages end in an amicable fashion. Working to develop a comprehensive parenting plan together, and beginning the process of co-parenting can help you and your former-spouse develop a professional, if not friendly relationship, after your divorce. Sharing a child is a long-term commitment, and working to redevelop your relationship, can pay dividends in the future.
Expediting the Divorce Process: When a couple makes the decision to pursue a divorce, they are likely looking to step into a new chapter of their lives, unfortunately relying on the court to make a decision on the nuances of your separation can take a substantial amount of time. Working with your attorney to come to a parenting agreement with your spouse, can expedite the divorce process, saving you time, money, and stress. As you look to move into the next stage of your life, let us help you develop an agreement that works best for your family.
At J. Aldrich Law, P.C., our firm is dedicated to helping our clients throughout the entirety of the divorce process. We will help you make decisions around issues such as child custody and the allocation of marital property. The divorce process can be complicated, and you need an attorney you can trust at your side. To schedule a free initial consultation with a knowledgeable DuPage County divorce attorney, call us today at 630-953-3000.
Source:
https://www.verywellfamily.com/little-known-benefits-of-joint-custody-4077238