Unexpected Changes That Can Impact Your Parenting Plan 

In Illinois, parenting plans specify all the important details regarding child custody arrangements for parents who are either divorced or otherwise no longer living together. As part of a court order, the details are painstakingly negotiated between you, the other parent, and both parties’ attorneys. Unfortunately, unexpected changes in your life could necessitate changes to these plans. The following details five common situations that are likely to arise and the best ways of dealing with them. 

Situations That Could Prompt Changes in Child Custody Arrangements 

In general, children do best when both parents play an active and engaged role in their lives. Barring circumstances that could put the child in danger, courts generally prefer child custody arrangements that allow both parents to have access to the child. 

Parenting plans in Illinois detail where the child spends time throughout the week and arrangements regarding visitation over weekends, school breaks, holidays, and other special occasions. They also specify particulars, such as pick-up and drop off arrangements, who has the right to make decisions regarding the child, and how any disputes between the parents will be handled. Unexpected situations that can arise and jeopardize your plans include:

• Changes in jobs: Depending on the age of your child, you may have customized your parenting plan to work around your schedule. Changes in hours or in job locations could impact your plan. 
• Changes in social life and personal relationships: As a parent, you are entitled to the social life of your own. Whether it involves civic obligations, time spent with friends, or a new relationship, it can end up impacting your schedule.
• Changes in where you live: Depending on your job and other circumstances in your life, a move may be in order. This can dramatically impact custody arrangements, particularly if it involves another city or state.
• Changes in family obligations: Taking care of elderly parents and those with serious illnesses or even the birth of another child may necessitate changes in your parenting plan
• Changes in the other parent’s behavior: If your spouse behaves more aggressively, fighting with you and refusing to comply with the parenting plan, you have the right to report this to your attorney and take them to court. Under the Illinois Statutes, potentially dangerous actions, such as drug and alcohol abuse or violent outbursts and other types of criminal behavior, can result in loss of custody rights.

Reach Out to Our Chicago Child Custody Attorneys

 At the Women’s Divorce and Family Law Group, protecting your child’s best interests and your rights as a parent is our top priority. To request a consultation regarding your case, contact our Chicago child custody attorneys today.