Cook County Child Custody Attorneys

What Is Child Custody?

Child custody refers to the allocation of parental responsibilities. When a relationship comes to an end, you need to resolve arrangements relating to care if children are involved. Child custody is considered among the most difficult legal issues to deal with.

The Cook County child custody lawyers at Nottage and Ward, LLP are experienced in dealing with complicated family law matters. We empathize with the level of stress that can be involved in these situations and endeavor to ensure your and your child’s best interests are met. Call Nottage and Ward, LLP today at (312) 332-2915.

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How Is Custody Determined?

The legal determination of custody rights is important; therefore, many factors are considered. The central consideration is the best interests of the child. This may include the child’s safety, education, support system, and how the parent’s rights will be balanced with the child’s best interests. While children don’t make the decision as to where they’ll live, the closer they are to 18, the more influence a child’s preference will have.

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Types of Custody

A parent may be awarded physical and/or legal custody over the child or children and the term child custody may refer to either in Cook County. Physical custody describes where the child lives. This may be awarded to one parent, while the other maintains specific visitation rights. Alternatively, both parents may be awarded physical custody that follows an agreed upon schedule.

Legal custody refers to the authority to make decisions that relate to a child’s lifestyle. Similarly, this may be awarded to both or one parent. Examples of decisions made by the legal guardian may include school, religion, and health.

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Can a Custody Order Be Changed?

Custody issues are complex and directly deal with children’s lives; therefore, as the courts don’t make these decisions lightly, the judge’s decision regarding child custody is presumed final. In Illinois, you can apply to the court to change a custody order; however, this can be difficult.

A change to a custody order may be known as a modification. Various factors are important to consider when applying for a custody order change, including how long the present order has been in place. The best interests of the child will also remain the primary consideration.

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Why It’s Important To Have a Skilled Cook County Child Custody Lawyer

Child custody falls within the jurisdiction of family law. Cook County family lawyers are specialized in helping their clients during these stressful and difficult times. Nottage and Ward, LLP have a wealth of knowledge in this area of the law and are well versed in the realities of child custody cases. Therefore, we’re not only successful litigators but successful negotiators.

We ensure that costs are kept to a minimum and try to resolve Cook County custody disputes through alternative forms of dispute resolution. Call Nottage and Ward, LLP today at (312) 332-2915.

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Cook County Divorce Resource Center

• Bankruptcy in Divorce
• Child Custody
• Collaborative Law
• Dissolution of Marriage
• Family Law
• Maintenance
• Preparing for Divorce