Considerations for Creating an Illinois Parenting Plan

 Posted on March 22, 2021 in Children of Divorce

In Illinois, the term “child custody” was replaced by the “allocation of parental responsibilities” in 2016. Instead of one or both parents having “custody” of their children, the parents are expected to create an agreement that allocates the parental responsibilities and parenting time—formerly known as visitation. This agreement is called a parenting plan, and it involves careful consideration to create one that makes the children’s well-being a priority. 

What Is a Parenting Plan?

When getting a divorce, the parents of children must decide how the children will be taken care of after the separation. A parenting plan will be drafted that explains which parent has what responsibilities, and who the children will see, and when. A schedule will be created that both parents and the children will follow after the divorce. That schedule may include what days children spend with either parent, who picks up the children from school, and what activities each parent is involved in. 

The best way to create a parenting plan is with your attorney. Here are some things to think about when writing a parenting plan:

• Creating Consistency: It is important to begin working on a parenting plan right away in order to implement the changes sooner rather than later. A divorce will be hard on your children, so the more stability you and your spouse can create, the easier the transition will be. When writing the plan, keep as many things in your children’s life consistent as possible. If your children have extracurricular activities during the week, work those events into the parenting plan. If your spouse picks up your kids every day from school, continue that routine if possible. When changes do need to be made to the children’s schedule, be sure to communicate these changes and make sure you and your ex can commit to them. 

• What the Child Wants: When making a parenting plan for your children, consider their wants and needs. This plan is designed to be in the best interest of the children, and if the kids are old enough, it is important to consider their input. Remember that this is a big change for everyone involved. If the children are not old enough to have an opinion, think about what would benefit them the most and create the least amount of disruption. Of course, you may have to make decisions that are unfavorable to your children, but listening will make them feel included in a time of uncertainty. 

Contact a Skilled Lombard Family Law Attorney 

Once approved, an Illinois parenting plan is enforceable as a court order, so it is crucial to get details about your children’s future care right the first time to avoid additional time before a judge. Contact an experienced DuPage County family law attorney to protect your rights as a parent. Call the diligent legal team at A. Traub & Associates at 630-426-0196 to schedule a confidential consultation. 

Source:

https://www.verywellfamily.com/create-parenting-schedule-that-works-for-your-family-4115901