Children and parenting
Get help with parenting time, decisions for your child, or a parenting order that needs to change. Chicago Family Attorneys LLC can review your existing orders and discuss the work needed for your next step.
Affordable options, including free initial consultations for people seeking to hire a lawyer, flat fees, limited-scope help and monthly payment plans. Your fee is confirmed in writing before you engage the firm. Fees and payment options. See child custody representation fees before your consultation.
Your next step
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Child-custody consultation45 minutes
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For an initial case, the process includes filing a petition, proposing a parenting plan and presenting unresolved issues to the court. A statutory deadline applies to each parent's proposed plan, and the court may extend it (750 ILCS 5/602.10). The judge decides disputed significant decision-making responsibilities and parenting time, not the lawyer (750 ILCS 5/602.5; 750 ILCS 5/602.7).
Bring the latest parenting plan, allocation judgment, later orders and any hearing notice. A calendar showing school days, exchanges and actual parenting time helps identify the issue. Include a short account of the requested arrangement and supporting records.
Chicago Family Attorneys LLC offers services in English and Spanish. Initial consultations are free for people seeking to hire an attorney. Representation fees and scope are confirmed separately in writing. Call 312-965-5618 to discuss your parenting matter.
Related pages: Child support questions, Divorce and parenting arrangements, Family-law fees and payment options and Limited-scope family-law help.
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Parenting concerns may involve the regular schedule, decision-making, an existing order, a proposed move, or an immediate safety issue. This hub helps you separate those questions and find the service or guide that matches your situation. Start with the current orders and the change or decision you need addressed, then review the relevant material on modification, relocation, emergency requests, or child removal. The guides also explain particular evidence and participant questions, including evaluations and a guardian ad litem. Information about a general legal framework is a starting point for an attorney’s review of the family’s actual circumstances.
Counties we serve: Cook, DuPage, Lake and Will.
Parenting cases in Chicago address parenting time and significant decision-making responsibility (750 ILCS 5/602.5; 750 ILCS 5/602.7). The Circuit Court of Cook County, Domestic Relations Division, sits at the Richard J. Daley Center, 50 W. Washington St., Chicago. Start by identifying whether you need an initial parenting arrangement, a change to an existing order or enforcement of scheduled time.
Discuss an existing parenting order, changed circumstances and proposed adjustments. Prepare for a custody-modification consultation in Chicago.
Relocation and parenting arrangementsDiscuss a proposed move and its effect on parenting arrangements. Prepare locations, dates and existing orders for a relocation consultation.
Emergency parenting mattersRequest review of an urgent parenting concern in Chicago. Identify dates and existing orders, and learn the limits of an online consultation request.
Child removal and retentionDiscuss a child being taken or withheld, existing orders and relevant locations. Prepare key information for a Chicago attorney’s case review.
Fathers and parentingDiscuss parentage documents, parenting time and support questions as a father in Chicago. Organize your goals and records for a consultation.
Mothers and parentingDiscuss parenting responsibilities, support and related concerns as a mother in Chicago. Prepare concrete information for a focused legal consultation.
Grandparent contactDiscuss grandparent visitation, family history and existing orders. Prepare for a careful review of your objectives with Chicago family counsel.
Interference in a parent-child relationshipDiscuss missed exchanges, disrupted contact and other parenting concerns. Organize events and existing orders for a focused custody consultation.
Understand the different custody questions and prepare a fact-based discussion about your child's needs.
DUI and parenting disputesUnderstand the questions a DUI allegation or case may raise for parenting arrangements and legal planning.
Co-parenting communicationExplore practical scheduling and communication questions while keeping the existing parenting order in view.
Mental-health evaluations and parentingReview the legal process, privacy questions, and preparation issues surrounding a parenting-case evaluation.
Starting a parenting casePrepare for an initial parenting case by organizing orders, parentage information, and the child's schedule.
Illinois parenting-law overviewUnderstand the main parenting-law concepts and find practical guides for your next question.
Parentage, parenting, and supportUnderstand how parenting and support questions fit together and where to find the detailed guides.
Immigration status and parentingIdentify family-court and immigration questions that may need coordinated, individualized legal advice.
The guardian ad litem’s roleReview appointment documents, role distinctions, and preparation questions when a child-related appointee is involved.
Adoptionbudgeting a parenting caseChild supportGuardianship of a minorLGBTQ parents and parentage
School decisions, parenting time and access to records are separate issues. Start with the current order, check the child’s actual school schedule, confirm pickup and communication procedures, and obtain advice before changing contested arrangements.
Read the guide
Understand the issues, organize the records and define the next step.
School days, exchanges, holidays, travel, and communication can become points of disagreement. Describe your current routine and the arrangement you hope to achieve so the consultation begins with the decisions affecting your child each week.
Starting a parenting case requires different preparation from changing an existing order. Tell us whether an order is already in place, what remains disputed, and whether a hearing or other specific event is approaching.
Have the latest court orders, a calendar of parenting arrangements, and a short list of concerns available. Keep the initial online request brief; sensitive records can be addressed through the appropriate intake process.
Read the issue, the decision and its limits. These selected opinions are background for a focused discussion of your own records and the applicable law.
2019 IL 123602 | Supreme Court of Illinois | 2019
Fatkin emphasized that deciding whether relocation serves a child's best interests requires a case-specific assessment. The Supreme Court reinstated the trial court's approval of the move after reviewing its detailed findings and the evidence. The decision also explains the deference given to a trial judge who heard the witnesses when the factual ruling is reviewed on appeal.
Read in context. One family's approved move does not establish permission for another family. Fatkin does not waive the notice, consent or court procedures that apply under Section 609.2, and a child's preference is not the sole factor. The current order, statutory definition of relocation and actual circumstances must be reviewed before moving.
Read the official opinion (Paragraphs 32-36)
What this decision means for your next stepSelected published decisions. Explore all case explanations or read the 2026 law updates.
To speak with a Chicago child custody lawyer today, call Chicago Family Attorneys at 312-965-5618 or book an appointment online today for a free consultation. We work with our clients to ensure that their parental rights and parenting time are protected at every stage of litigation.
At Chicago Family Attorneys, our law firm is known for our litigation in child custody matters. We consider ourselves a family law firm focused on child custody in Cook County, Illinois. Our child custody law firm stands out for its deep knowledge and extensive experience in handling a wide range of child custody matters, including:
Allocation of Parental Rights
Parenting Time Arrangements
Orders of Protection
Relocation Cases
Child Support Issues
We are committed to representing clients in difficult child custody cases, ensuring that the best interests of your children are always our top priority. We have the best child custody attorneys in Chicago represent unmarried parents, married parents, and even grandparents, advocating for appropriate time and relationships with children under Illinois law.
Our child custody lawyers will provide legal advice and review all issues related to your case with the proper attention and care that you need for your case. We ensure that you are heard throughout your matter and work to bring families together within each case. The right custody lawyers can help you with the right legal arguments and work needed within your case.
We will work with you to prioritize your child's mental and physical health. When you bring a strong case to the circuit court with our experienced attorneys, you prioritize your child's well-being. Your child's best interests are the focus when you work with us. Working with a lawyer who handles these cases regularly can give you a clearer picture of where you stand.
Our dedicated team understands that child custody matters can be emotionally challenging and complex. We are here to provide you with the support and guidance you need during this difficult time and understand the legal issues that each family faces. Our attorneys will take the time to listen to your concerns, understand your unique situation, and develop a personalized approach that reflects your goals and priorities.
In Illinois, custody decisions are made based on the best interests of the child. This means that various factors are considered, including the child's age, the relationship with each parent, and the ability of each parent to provide a stable environment. Our lawyers are well-versed in these factors and will work diligently to present your case effectively in court.
We also recognize that every family is different, and we strive to find solutions that work for you. Whether through negotiation, mediation, or litigation, we are committed to advocating for your rights and ensuring that your voice is heard. Our goal is to help you achieve a custody arrangement that fosters a positive relationship between you and your child.
If you are facing a custody dispute or need assistance with modifications to an existing agreement, don’t hesitate to reach out. At Chicago Family Attorneys, we are the right lawyers for child custody cases and we are here to help you navigate the legal process with confidence and compassion. Contact us today for a consultation, and let us help you take the first step toward securing a brighter future for you and your child.
Understanding that every family's situation is unique, we take a well-rounded approach to resolving child custody issues. We use strategies suited to the facts of each case and the standards the court applies under 750 ILCS 5/602.7. When you hire a child custody lawyer in Chicago, Illinois to represent you, you should receive careful legal representation.
Our strategies may include:
Mediation & Alternative Dispute Resolution: Encouraging cooperation and fostering healthy co-parenting relationships.
Therapy & Expert Witnesses: Utilizing child psychologists, Guardians ad Litem, and other experts to present comprehensive cases to the court.
Litigation Plans for Contentious Cases: Crafting thorough litigation strategies to protect our clients' interests and ensure the well-being of the minor child.
Child Custody and Allocation of Parental Rights Laws in Illinois
In Illinois, allocation of parental rights, also known as child custody, is determined based on the best interests of the child. The law recognizes two main components: decision-making responsibilities and parenting time.
Decision-making responsibilities pertain to significant aspects of a child’s life, including education, healthcare, religion, and extracurricular activities. Parenting time, on the other hand, refers to the schedule and conditions under which each parent will spend time with the child.
At Chicago Family Attorneys, we are well-versed in the intricacies of Illinois family law and aim to secure arrangements that foster a healthy and supportive environment for your child.
The court considers various factors when making these determinations, such as the child's needs, each parent’s relationship with the child, the child's adjustment to their home and community, and the willingness of each parent to cooperate in fostering a positive relationship between the child and the other parent.
Allocation of Parental Rights within the State of Illinois allows for parents to make choices with regard to medical care, education, extracurricular activities, and religious upbringing. These are important aspects of a child's wellbeing and a child's upbringing in which parents want to be able to make choices.
Our attorneys are committed to advocating for your parental rights while prioritizing the well-being and stability of your child. Work with Chicago Family Attorney's and our Chicago child custody lawyers to assist in your matter. By working with us, you are working toward a positive outcome for your children.
When determining allocation of parental rights cases, Illinois courts prioritize the child’s best interests above all else. This assessment involves evaluating a variety of factors to ensure that the final arrangement supports the child's physical, emotional, and psychological well-being. Key considerations include:
The Child’s Needs: The court assesses the developmental needs of the child, including their emotional security, health requirements, and educational needs. The goal is to create an environment that best fosters the child’s growth and stability.
Parent-Child Relationships: Evaluating the existing relationship between each parent and the child is crucial. The court examines the bond, interaction, and level of attachment the child has with each parent to understand the family dynamics.
Adjustment to Home and Community: The child’s adjustment to their current home, school, and community is taken into account. Stability in a child’s living environment is considered essential for their overall development and well-being.
Parental Cooperation: The willingness and ability of each parent to facilitate and encourage a close and continuing relationship between the child and the other parent is carefully considered. Courts favor arrangements where both parents exhibit cooperative and supportive behaviors.
History of Domestic Violence or Abuse: Any history of domestic violence, abuse, or neglect is a critical factor. The safety and protection of the child are paramount, and the court will take necessary precautions to ensure the child's welfare is not compromised.
Parental Responsibilities and Accessibility: The ability and willingness of each parent to carry out their parental responsibilities are weighed. This includes the capacity to provide for the child's day-to-day needs and make sound decisions regarding their welfare.
Preferences of the Child: Depending on the child's age and maturity, their preferences and wishes may be taken into consideration. While not decisive, the child's voice can provide valuable insights into their feelings and desires.
At Chicago Family Attorneys, we approach each case with a meticulous eye for detail, ensuring that all relevant factors are thoroughly evaluated to present the strongest possible case for our clients. Our law firm is committed to achieving a court order or judgment that best supports the needs and well-being of your child while upholding our clients' parental rights.
Gaining child custody in Illinois involves navigating a complex legal process that prioritizes the child's best interests. Illinois laws make sure that children get care and support from both parents, even if they are not together. Here are the key steps involved in gaining child custody in Illinois:
Parental Rights and Responsibilities give the right to make important decisions about a child's life, like education, healthcare, and religious upbringing. Parents can share parental responsibilities (joint custody) or one parent may be granted sole legal custody.
Parenting time and physical custody refer to where the child lives on a day-to-day basis. This can also be shared (joint physical custody) or granted primarily to one parent, with visitation rights for the other.
To initiate the custody process, a parent must file a petition in the Illinois court. This petition should be submitted in the county where the child resides. It's important to ensure that all required documents are accurately completed and submitted promptly.
Courts often require parents to submit a proposed parenting plan as part of their custody case. This comprehensive document outlines how parental responsibilities and parenting time will be allocated, addressing key components such as living arrangements, decision-making authority, and visitation schedules.
Illinois courts may mandate mediation to help parents reach an agreement on custody and parenting matters. Mediation provides a neutral environment where both parties can discuss their concerns and work towards a mutually beneficial arrangement with the help of a mediator.
When making custody determinations, Illinois courts consider several factors to evaluate the child’s best interests, including:
The child’s wishes (depending on age and maturity).
The mental and physical health of all parties involved.
The child’s existing relationships with parents, siblings, and other significant individuals.
The child’s adjustment to their home, school, and community.
The ability of each parent to facilitate a loving relationship between the child and the other parent.
If parents can't agree on custody, they may have to go to court for a hearing if mediation doesn't work. During the hearing, both parents present their arguments, evidence, and witnesses. The judge will then make a decision based on the child’s best interests.
Once the court issues a custody order, both parents must comply with its terms. This legally binding document outlines custody arrangements, including parenting time and decision-making responsibilities.
At Chicago Family Attorneys, we understand the emotional and legal complexities involved in gaining child custody. Our dedicated team of attorneys provides compassionate and strategic guidance to help clients navigate the process effectively. We advocate for arrangements that support the best interests of the child while protecting our clients' parental rights.
We work closely with clients to create custody agreements that help children feel stable, secure, and well taken care of. We are here to assist you at every step. We will provide legal support to help your family pursue its goals.
When going through a child custody case in Chicago or elsewhere in Illinois, understanding how parenting time is determined is crucial. The allocation of parental responsibilities, which includes parenting time, is a key component of custody proceedings in Illinois courts. When hiring a child custody attorney in Chicago, it is important for your child custody attorney to go over these details with you and create a litigation plan to enforce your parenting time if the other parent does not effectively co-parent or give you your parenting time.
In Illinois, courts use the term "parenting time" rather than "visitation" when referring to the time each parent spends with their child. The Illinois Marriage and Dissolution of Marriage Act (IMDMA) provides guidelines for determining parenting time arrangements.
When allocating parenting time, Illinois courts presume that both parents are fit and will not place restrictions unless there is evidence that a parent's exercise of parenting time would seriously endanger the child's well-being. The overarching principle guiding these decisions is the best interests of the child.
Illinois courts consider several factors when determining parenting time arrangements. These include:
The wishes of each parent seeking parenting time
The child's wishes, considering their maturity level
The amount of time each parent spent performing caretaking functions in the past
Any prior agreements or conduct between parents regarding childcare
The child's relationship with parents, siblings, and other significant individuals
The child's adjustment to home, school, and community
The mental and physical health of all parties involved
The child's needs
The distance between parents' residences and associated logistics
Each parent's willingness to facilitate a relationship between the child and the other parent
Any history of violence or abuse
Whether a parent is a sex offender
Courts in Illinois may consider various parenting time schedules, including:
Alternating weekends
Weekday evening visits
Extended summer vacations
Holiday rotations
50/50 schedules (when appropriate)
The specific arrangement will depend on the family's unique circumstances and what best serves the child's interests.
Parents are encouraged to develop a comprehensive parenting plan that outlines the specifics of their parenting time arrangement. This plan should address:
Regular parenting time schedules
Holiday and vacation arrangements
Transportation logistics
Communication methods between parents and children
Decision-making responsibilities
If parents can agree on a plan, courts are likely to approve it, provided it serves the child's best interests.
When issues become a problem for parents to gain the proper amount of time with their child or if there is a violation of a parenting plan agreement, it may be time to seek legal representation for your case. Navigating parenting time issues in Chicago and throughout Illinois can be complex. It's advisable to consult with an experienced family law attorney who can guide you through the process, help you understand your rights, and advocate for an arrangement that serves your child's best interests.
Remember, the goal of parenting time determinations is to ensure that children maintain strong relationships with both parents while prioritizing their well-being and stability. By focusing on cooperation and the child's needs, parents can work towards creating a positive co-parenting relationship that benefits everyone involved.
If you are considering legal representation within your child custody case, call the child custody attorneys at Chicago Family Attorneys at 312-965-5618 for a free consultation or book a consultation online.
Chicago Family Attorneys has child custody attorneys that service not only Chicago and Cook County, but also all surrounding counties. Our child custody lawyers are available to assist families when they need help in court the most. Our service areas include the following counties:
Our Cook County attorneys provide customized legal strategies for Cook County and can assist with:
Mediation & Negotiations for child custody agreements
Child Custody in divorce cases
Preparation of Allocation of Parental Rights in uncontested divorces
Orders of Protection and Child Custody matters involving domestic violence
Relocation of minor children in custody battles
Our DuPage County child custody attorneys provide legal strategies and tactics for DuPage County and can assist with:
Mediation to come to a resolve on your child custody issues
Divorce and allocation of parental rights
Relocation issues and custody issues
Orders of Protection and limiting parenting time
Emergency motions involving parenting time
Relocation of minor children in custody battles
Our Lake County family law and child custody lawyers offer representation for:
Mediation Services
Custody Issues in complex and contested divorce
Uncontested Divorce and Child Custody Agreement drafting
Our Will County family law and custody attorneys offer legal support for:
Mediation in Child Custody cases
Divorce and Child Custody
Custody agreements in uncontested divorces
At Chicago Family Attorneys, we understand the unique challenges of each divorce case. Our team collaborates with financial experts to accurately value assets and protect your interests throughout the divorce process.
If you are facing a child custody matter in Chicago or the surrounding counties, it is crucial to have experienced attorneys who are well-known for child custody battles. Contact Chicago Family Attorneys today to schedule a free consultation by calling 312-965-5618 or book a free consultation online. Our custody attorneys are dedicated to guiding parents through the stressful and complex issues involving allocation of parental rights cases.
For dedicated and knowledgeable legal support, contact Chicago Family Attorneys. Let us help you through the challenges that child custody cases may present to you.
When seeking a child custody lawyer in Chicago, it is important to work closely with your attorney to understand the necessary steps and requirements that must be followed in order to successfully navigate this process. Child custody cases are often emotionally charged and complex, making it crucial to have a knowledgeable and experienced lawyer by your side.
Your first step in finding a custody attorney should be to do thorough research. Look for lawyers who practice family law and have experience handling child custody cases specifically. You can also ask for recommendations from friends or family members who have gone through a similar situation.
Once you have narrowed down your list of potential lawyers, it is important to schedule consultations with each one. This will give you the opportunity to discuss your case and see if you feel comfortable working with them. During the consultation, make sure to ask about their experience, communication, and approach to handling child custody cases.
It is also important to consider the cost of hiring a child custody lawyer. When comparing fee options, keep in mind that this is an important legal matter and you want to ensure that you have representation suited to your needs. Make sure to ask about their fees and any additional costs that may arise during the process.
Communication is key when choosing a child custody attorney in Chicago, Illinois. You want someone who will keep you updated on your case, answer any questions or concerns you may have, and provide guidance throughout the entire process. It is important to establish a good relationship with your lawyer so that you can work together effectively.
In addition to finding a skilled and experienced lawyer, it is also important to consider the location of their practice. If they are located far away from you, it may be difficult to schedule meetings and attend court hearings. A lawyer who is in close proximity to you can make the process much smoother.
Another factor to consider when choosing a child custody attorney or family law firm to represent you in your matter is their availability. You want someone who will prioritize your case and make time for your needs. Make sure to ask about their workload and how many cases they currently have so that you can ensure they will be able to devote enough attention to your case.
It is also important to do some research on the reputation of the lawyer or law firm you are considering. Look for reviews and testimonials from previous clients, as well as any awards or recognition they may have received in the field of family law.
Lastly, trust your instincts when making a decision. It is crucial to have a good working relationship with your lawyer and feel comfortable discussing personal matters with them. If you do not feel confident in their abilities or communication style, it may be best to continue your search for the right child custody lawyer.
Remember, choosing the right custody lawyer is an important decision that can greatly impact your family's future. Take the time to thoroughly research and consider all of your options before making a final choice. With the help of a knowledgeable and experienced lawyer, you can navigate the complexities of child custody laws and work toward a favorable resolution for you and your children.
Our child custody lawyers at our law firm offer the opportunity for prospective clients to conduct a free consultation regarding their case. By calling our law firm, you have an opportunity to get to know us and what we can do for your case. Call our law firm at 312-965-5618 to speak about your child custody matter or book an appointment online.
Allocation of Parental Rights gives a parent the right to make important decisions about a child's life, such as education, healthcare, and religious upbringing. Parenting time and physical custody refer to where the child lives on a day-to-day basis. An allocation of parental rights and parenting time can be shared (joint custody) or granted primarily to one parent (sole custody) with visitation rights for the other parent.
To gain child custody in Illinois, you must file a petition for the allocation of parental responsibilities in the county where the child resides. The process involves preparing a parenting plan, attending mediation if required, and possibly going to court if an agreement cannot be reached. The court will make a decision based on the child's best interests. It is always advisable to hire an experienced child custody lawyer to represent you. For a free consultation with the attorneys at Chicago Family Attorneys, call 312-965-5618 or schedule a free consultation online using our booking page.
The court considers several factors, including:
The wishes of the child and parents
The child's relationship with parents, siblings, and others
The child's adjustment to home, school, and community
The mental and physical health of all individuals involved
The ability of the parents to cooperate and make decisions jointly
Any history of domestic violence or abuse
Yes, unmarried fathers can get custody or visitation rights, but they must first establish paternity. A valid Voluntary Acknowledgment of Parentage signed by both parents, witnessed and filed with HFS establishes parentage. If the birth parent was married to someone else at birth or within the preceding 300 days, HFS also requires a Denial of Parentage. Once paternity is established, fathers can petition for custody or visitation rights.
A parenting plan is a comprehensive document that outlines how parental responsibilities and parenting time will be allocated. It includes details about living arrangements, decision-making authority, and visitation schedules. Courts often require a proposed parenting plan as part of the custody case to ensure the child's best interests are met.
If parents cannot agree on a custody arrangement, they will required to attend mediation where the parties will try to agree on a parenting time schedule and allocation of parental rights judgment. If mediation fails, the case will go to court, where a judge will make a decision based on the child's best interests. Both parents will present their arguments, evidence, and witnesses during the court hearing.
The court evaluates various factors to determine the child's best interests, including:
The child's needs and preferences
The parents' ability to provide a stable and loving environment
The child's relationship with each parent
The parents' mental and physical health
The child's adjustment to home, school, and community
To modify a custody order, you must file a petition with the court demonstrating a significant change in circumstances that affects the child's best interests. The court will review the petition and may hold a hearing to decide whether the modification is warranted.
Yes, grandparents can seek visitation rights in Illinois under certain circumstances, such as if one of the parents is deceased, the parents are divorced, or the child is born out of wedlock and the parents are not living together. The court will consider the child's best interests when determining whether to grant visitation rights to grandparents.
A child custody attorney can provide legal advice, help you understand your rights, and guide you through the legal process. They can assist with filing petitions, preparing parenting plans, representing you in court, and negotiating custody arrangements to pursue a favorable resolution for you and your child. For more information or to schedule a consultation, contact Chicago Family Attorneys at 312-965-5618 or visit our website.
Finding the right child custody attorney for your case depends upon what you are seeking within your case. If you are working through issues involving relocation, parenting time, domestic violence, parental responsibilities, or other issues, you will want to ask relevant questions about your case and these issues to the attorney that you are considering to handle your case. Finding attorneys that offer free consultations is an important consideration when speaking to attorneys since these costs may add up.
Attorneys often advertise free consultations on their websites. If it is unclear if they offer a free consultation, call the child custody law firms in the area and ask them if they offer free consultations. Custody law firms usually will not charge for a consultation until an appointment has been set by the potential client. These consultations can range anywhere from $150 to $300 for a consultation in Chicago, Illinois.
The attorneys at Chicago Family Attorneys offer free consultations and are willing to walk you through the process in which they would represent you in your child custody or allocation for parental rights matter. To book a free consultation, call Chicago Family Attorneys at 312-965-5618
Potential clients often look at reviews, ask friends or family, and conduct thorough research to find child custody lawyers near them that are capable of representing them in their case. Our child custody law firm and family lawyers believe that working well with a child custody lawyer starts with a strong consultation and a deep understanding of the case to address the underlying issues within every custody matter. For affordable child custody lawyers in Chicago, call our office at 312-965-5618
Chicago Family Attorneys has child custody lawyers in the following counties:
Cook County
DuPage County
Lake County
DuPage County
When it comes to fighting for parental rights and custody over your children, the family and child custody lawyers at Chicago Family Attorneys can provide legal representation.
To learn more about our child custody lawyers and how we can assist you, call (312-965-5618 or book a free consultation online. Our child custody lawyers offer free consultations and booking an appointment is as easy as calling our office or visiting our booking page.
In Cook County, divorce, parenting and child support cases are heard at the Daley Center in Chicago and at the suburban district courthouses listed here. DuPage County cases are heard in Wheaton.
Our office
53 W Jackson Blvd, Suite 752, Chicago, IL 60604
Cook County Circuit Court, Chicago
50 W. Washington St., Chicago, IL 60602
Cook County, 2nd Municipal District
5600 Old Orchard Rd., Skokie, IL 60077
Cook County, 3rd Municipal District
2121 Euclid Ave., Rolling Meadows, IL 60008
Cook County, 4th Municipal District
1500 Maybrook Dr., Maywood, IL 60153
Cook County, 5th Municipal District
10220 S. 76th Ave., Bridgeview, IL 60455
Cook County, 6th Municipal District
16501 S. Kedzie Parkway, Markham, IL 60428
DuPage County, 18th Judicial Circuit
505 N. County Farm Rd., Wheaton, IL 60187
Addresses checked October 1, 2026 against the courts' official directories. Confirm your courtroom, calendar and appearance format with the court before each date; court orders and current court instructions control.
Parenting and child custody
These answers are general information about Illinois law, not legal advice for your situation. Reading them does not create an attorney-client relationship.
Parenting time concerns the time a child spends with each parent. Significant decision-making responsibility concerns education, health, religion and extracurricular activities. Illinois allocates these in separate sections, so a consultation should identify whether your concern involves the schedule, a major decision or both (750 ILCS 5/602.5; 750 ILCS 5/602.7). Bring the current order so the discussion starts with the responsibilities already allocated.
Parents generally must file a proposed parenting plan, jointly or separately, within 120 days after service or filing of a petition for allocation of parental responsibilities. The court may extend that time for good cause (750 ILCS 5/602.10(a)). Prepare by gathering the child's school schedule, current care arrangements and a calendar of parenting time. Identify which arrangements you agree on and which questions remain unresolved before preparing your proposal.
Illinois law permits temporary allocation of parental responsibilities while a case is pending (750 ILCS 5/603.5). A temporary request is distinct from the final parenting arrangement. Bring existing orders, relevant dates and records explaining the concern. An attorney can review the requested relief and supporting information, but the judge decides whether to enter a temporary order and what it provides.
Gather the allocation judgment, parenting plan, later orders and records showing what has changed. The standard depends on what you want changed. Parenting time may be modified at any time upon a showing of changed circumstances that make a modification necessary to serve the child's best interests (750 ILCS 5/610.5(a)). Other changes to a parenting plan or allocation judgment, such as a change to significant decision-making responsibility, generally require a substantial change in circumstances based on facts that arose after the order or were not anticipated in it, and a finding that modification is necessary to serve the child's best interests (750 ILCS 5/610.5(c)). Unless the parties stipulate, or except as provided in 750 ILCS 5/603.10, a motion to modify decision-making responsibility may not be made earlier than 2 years after the order, unless the court permits it on affidavits showing reason to believe the child's present environment may seriously endanger the child's mental, moral or physical health or significantly impair the child's emotional development (750 ILCS 5/610.5(a)). A court may also make certain modifications without a showing of changed circumstances, such as a minor modification, when the modification is in the child's best interests (750 ILCS 5/610.5(e)). Identify the precise adjustment you want before the consultation.
Illinois law provides an expedited enforcement process for abuse of allocated parenting time (750 ILCS 5/607.5). Bring the operative order and a dated record of missed exchanges, disrupted contact and relevant communications. Separate what the order requires from what actually occurred. An attorney can review the records and discuss an enforcement request. The court determines whether relief is appropriate.
Discuss enforcement of a Chicago family court order. Prepare parenting-time, support or financial records and understand the scope and cost of representation.
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Discuss parentage, parenting time and support with Chicago counsel for fathers. Review existing acknowledgments and court orders before your consultation.
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Discuss an existing parenting order, changed circumstances and proposed adjustments. Prepare for a custody-modification consultation in Chicago.
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Request review of an urgent parenting concern in Chicago. Identify dates and existing orders, and learn the limits of an online consultation request.
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