Parenting Time in Illinois

When parents decide to divorce or separate, determining how children will split their time between two homes is often the most emotional and challenging aspect of the process. In Illinois, what was formerly known as visitation is now called parenting time. This shift in language reflects a more modern, child-centric approach: it’s not about “visiting” your children; it’s about being a parent to them.

At SLG Family Law, we understand that there is no one-size-fits-all solution for your family. Whether you are working amicably with your co-parent or facing a complex dispute, our goal is to help you establish a schedule that prioritizes your children’s stability and your peace of mind.

What Needs to Be Included in a Parenting Plan?

A parenting plan is more than just a schedule; it is a comprehensive document that serves as a roadmap for your family’s future. In Illinois, a robust parenting plan must address:

• Routine Schedule: The specific days and times the child is with each parent during the school year and summer.
• Holiday Schedule: How major holidays (Thanksgiving, Christmas, Hanukkah, etc.) and special days (birthdays, Mother’s Day, Father’s Day) are divided or alternated.
• School Breaks: Who the child stays with during winter and spring breaks.
• Transportation: Who is responsible for picking up and dropping off the child for exchanges.
• Right of First Refusal: Whether the other parent gets the option to care for the child if the on-duty parent is unavailable (e.g., for work or travel) before a babysitter is called.
• Communication: Rules for how parents will communicate with each other and how the child will communicate with the other parent during their time.

The more detailed and clear a parenting plan is, the less likely parents are to face confusion and conflict down the road.

How Parenting Plans Are Made

Parents Can Create Their Own Plan

The ideal path forward is for parents to work together to create a parenting plan they both agree on. This allows you to maintain control over the decisions that affect your family rather than handing that power over to a stranger in a courtroom.

You can achieve this through:

• Direct Negotiation: Sitting down (often with attorneys present) to map out a schedule.
• Mediation: Working with a neutral third party who facilitates a compromise.

When parents collaborate, they create durable, respectful co-parenting relationships that benefit the children immensely.

The Courts Can Decide

If parents cannot reach an agreement, a judge will make the decision for them. In Illinois, the court’s sole consideration is the “best interests of the child.” The judge will evaluate numerous factors, including:

• The wishes of the parents and the child (depending on the child’s maturity).
• The child’s adjustment to their home, school, and community.
• The mental and physical health of all parties involved.
• Each parent’s willingness to foster their child’s relationship with their other parent.
• Previous caretaking history (who handled doctor’s appointments, bedtime routines, etc.).

To avoid leaving such critical decisions about your parenting in the hands of the court, it’s essential to work with an experienced team of parenting time attorneys that can balance advocating for your rights and encouraging collaboration.

The Value of SLG Family Law in Drafting Your Parenting Plan

A final parenting plan is a legally binding court order. It can be tough and expensive to modify within the first two years, making it critical to get it right the first time.

Our attorneys at SLG Family Law can help you:

• Draft a comprehensive plan that leaves no room for ambiguity or arguments.
• Anticipate future needs, such as how the schedule will change as your child grows up.
• Advocate effectively for your rights, whether in mediation or litigation.

At SLG Family Law, we are deeply passionate about helping families find clarity and peace during challenging times.

Set Your Family Up for Success

Creating a well-thought-out parenting plan is one of the most important steps you can take for your children’s well-being and your own peace of mind. While it may be difficult to think about your child not being with you all the time, getting the details right from the start prevents future conflict and provides the stability your family needs to thrive. The experienced attorneys at SLG Family Law are here to guide you through every step. Contact us today to discuss your parenting time needs and create a plan that serves your children’s best interests for years to come.