Handling Problems With Your Illinois Parenting Plan 

Working out reasonable arrangements regarding the custody of children and visitation schedules is one of the biggest challenges facing divorce or unmarried parents. In Chicago area child custody proceedings, parenting plans are used to dictate the amount of time the child spends in each parent’s home and other important issues. Unfortunately, even once a child custody and visitation order is in place, the other parent may not cooperate. If you are experiencing these types of problems, the following offers advice on dealing with the situation. 

Problems That Can Come Up in Chicago Area Parenting Plans

Under the Illinois Statutes, child custody matters may be determined as part of divorce proceedings, or they may be initiated in a separate legal action. There are several options in terms of outcome. Custody may be awarded to one parent while the other gets visitation or joint custody arrangements may be worked out. 

There are numerous issues the judge will consider before issuing a final order. In addition to each parent’s relationship with the child and their ability to meet the child’s needs, the judge will also factor in their willingness to cooperate with one another. Despite these precautions, problems can still arise. Among the most common include: 

• Being chronically late for scheduled visitation;
• Canceling visits at the last minute;
• Not returning the child at the appropriate time;
• Engaging in behavior while with the child that could put his or her well-being at risk. 

Dealing With Parenting Plan Problems

In creating an Illinois parenting plan, our Chicago child custody attorneys can guide you in including important provisions. These include designated pick-up or drop-off locations and times, how to handle emergency situations that can result in delayed or canceled visits, and how parenting plan problems or issues should be dealt with. Depending on the situation, this may involve taking any of the following steps: 

• Calmly communicating the problem with the other parent;
• Offering practical suggestions on actions that could help;
• Making adjustments in scheduling, such as changing drop-off times or locations;
• Making adjustments to the parenting plan, such as changes in the days visitation occurs or the overall amount of time spent with the other parent. 

Whenever there is a problem with court-ordered child custody arrangements, it is important to consult with an experienced attorney immediately. If the above steps do not help or if major issues arise, you may be able to request parenting plan modifications to protect your rights and your child’s best interests. 

Reach Out to Our Chicago Child Custody and Visitation Attorneys

At the Women’s Divorce & Family Law Group, our top priority is protecting you and your children. To discuss issues regarding parenting plans, reach out and contact our Chicago area child custody and visitation attorneys to request a consultation.