You might worry that a divorce means losing your relationship with your child, but this is not always the case. Courts in Illinois can create or approve parenting plans and schedules that protect your child’s needs, safety and stability. Understanding how judges assess a child’s best interests can help you prepare for the divorce and strengthen your case.
Core factors courts consider under Illinois law
Instead of using the term “custody”, Illinois law refers to this as allocating parental responsibilities and parenting time. During this process, courts prioritize arrangements that benefit your child when determining schedules and decision-making power. They accomplish this by considering the following factors:
- Your child’s needs, maturity, wishes and adjustment to home, school and community
- Each parent’s wishes, ability to make joint decisions and willingness to support your child’s relationship with the other parent
- Each parent’s history of abuse, domestic violence, safety risks, substance abuse or criminal history
- Practical issues like the distance between homes, schedules and transportation
After carefully reviewing each of these factors, the judge chooses the arrangement that provides your child with the most stability, safety and welfare. Courts tailor these agreements after examining each family’s case individually.
Building a brighter future for your child
Your actions during a divorce can affect the judge’s final decision. By demonstrating your willingness to cooperate with the other parent and follow a court-ordered plan, you can secure a place in your child’s life and help them mature and develop. The choices you make today can lay the foundation for your relationship with your child for years to come.