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How to Make a Sensible Parenting Schedule
Even in the most amicable divorces, figuring out a schedule for parenting time can be a major struggle. Both you and your co-parent will have to manage your divorce and navigate your new lives all while trying to do what is best for your child.
At Shaw Sanders, P.C., we know how difficult a divorce can be for parents and our Illinois family law attorneys can help you negotiate with your co-parent for a realistic parenting plan. Attorney Matt Shaw is a certified mediator with experience helping spouses and families reach solutions through compromise. When you work with our firm, we can lend our insights to help you develop a reasonable schedule for parenting time.
Split Parenting Time Fairly
In 2016, Illinois officially scrapped the language of "visitation" around divorce. Instead, the state acknowledges that both parents have a right to reasonable parenting time. This division of parenting time does not have to be 50/50 throughout the year, but it should allow for both you and your co-parent to stay present in your child’s life.
Your split of parenting time should not just be fair, but also feasible. If you and your spouse plan to move far apart after a divorce or work odd hours, that should be factored into how you divide parenting time. At Shaw Sanders, P.C., our family law attorneys can help you draft a parenting plan based on your unique circumstances.
Make It Consistent
Having a stable, consistent home life is important for a child’s development. A parenting schedule that is not structured enough will end up frustrating you, your ex, and your child. Before you finalize a parenting plan, you should make sure that both you and your co-parent can honor it.
Also, keep in mind that once a custody arrangement is finalized, it usually cannot be changed for at least two years from the judgment. The only exception to this rule is if the child’s well-being is endangered. At Shaw Sanders, P.C., we can help you draft and enforce a parenting schedule.
Consider Your Child’s Best Interests
Although you have rights as a parent, you should consider your child’s wants and needs as well. If you plan on relocating, you should think about your child’s attachment to his or her hometown, school, friends, and community. Furthermore, unless there is a good, court-sanctioned reason not to, you should try to coordinate with your co-parent.
Ultimately, the court will only approve a parenting schedule if it is in line with the child’s best interests. An arrangement that is convenient for both you and your spouse may not be the best for your child. Our firm can advocate for your proposed plan in a court of family law, arguing that it suits your family’s needs.
Meet With a St. Charles, IL Family Law Attorney Today
The work of a parent is never easy. At Shaw Sanders, P.C., our Kane County, IL divorce lawyers are ready to advocate for your rights in a long-term custody arrangement. To get started with a free consultation, call our offices at 630-584-5550 today.
630-584-5550