What Are the Components of Parental Responsibilities in Illinois?

 Posted on May 12, 2025 in Child Custody / Parental Responsibilities

Arguably, the most emotionally charged part of an Illinois divorce is often the allocation of parental responsibilities, commonly known as child custody. Understanding the nuanced laws that govern the court’s decisions and outline your rights as a parent is critical. It ensures that you approach the process confidently, and a knowledgeable Skokie, IL parental responsibilities attorney can help.

What Are Decision-Making Responsibilities in an Illinois Custody Case?

In Illinois, "parental responsibilities" is an umbrella phrase encompassing the allocation of decision-making rights and parenting time, formerly known as legal custody and visitation, respectively. The decision-making component is divided into four categories:

• Decisions about education, including learning support services

• Management of healthcare, including choosing providers and insurance

• Determination of religious upbringing and whether to attend worship

• Choices regarding extracurricular activities, such as sports or clubs

The court always prefers to allocate decision-making obligations jointly, allowing parents to make decisions together. Sharing this responsibility requires communication and cooperation between both parents, and the court will assess your ability to work together.

How Does Parenting Time Work in a Custody Case in Illinois?

Parenting time involves the actual time spent with each parent, including daily care, overnight stays, holidays, and other special occasions. When allocating parenting time, the courts aim to minimize disruptions and promote meaningful relationships with each parent. The schedules can vary significantly because they are designed based on several factors relating to every family’s unique situation, but the court encourages parents to be flexible and do what is best for their children.

What Factors Influence the Allocation of Parenting Time in Illinois?

Illinois law outlines the factors considered when determining parenting time. In general, the court considers all relevant factors without limits, including the following:

• The child’s physical, developmental, and emotional needs

• The preferences of both parents, along with practical considerations like location and work schedules

• The wishes of older, more mature children

• The quality and strength of relationships between the child and each parent

• The parents’ physical and mental health

• How willing each parent is to cooperate

• Whether there is any documented domestic violence, neglect, or abuse

The court will often require parents to undergo mediation to resolve disputes about the parenting plan. It is less expensive than litigation and creates a more collaborative approach. When you can reach a resolution through mediation, your parenting plan will often better reflect the unique needs of your family.

Speak With a Chicago, IL Parental Responsibilities Attorney

When you decide to work with the Cook County, IL parental responsibilities lawyer at The Law Offices of Curtis Bennett Ross, L.L.C., it means we will fight to protect your child’s best interests and your rights. We will work closely with you to ensure you understand every step of the legal process. Call 312-984-1514 to schedule your no-cost, limited consultation today. With over 30 years of experience serving families in every possible legal situation, we are confident that we can offer compassion and reassurance.