When a couple chooses to end their marriage, they are often left with a variety of issues to sort through. If there are children involved, one of the biggest issues they face is determining child custody and visitation. Unfortunately, many people in Illinois may not fully understand the options available to them.
In some cases, a judge will determine that reasonable visitation is appropriate, meaning that the parents are allowed to create a parental visitation plan. This arrangement is preferable to some because it allows both parents flexibility to arrange visitations around their schedules. Often, the custodial parent will have more influence of visitation in this arrangement. While it does have its benefits, it requires parents who are able to openly communicate with one another.
Unfortunately, some divorced parents are unable to do this. If a parent in the arrangement feels that they are being maliciously denied access to their children, he or she has the option of asking the court to order a fixed visitation schedule. In this arrangement, the court determines when the parent will have visitation and for how long. This is often a better arrangement for couples who are still experiencing conflict and can create stability for children in a stressful time of their lives.
When it comes to children, most parents in Illinois simply want what is in the best interests of their children. Often, couples who are still in a committed relationship struggle to agree on what this is. After a divorce, these decisions can become even more difficult. As such, many parents want an experienced family law attorney helping them as they create an appropriate child custody plan.
