Child Custody Lawyers in Oswego IL may be finding they spend more time explaining the concept of child custody to their clients. The reason for this is Illinois has decided to take a new approach when it comes to children in a divorce. This year, rather than discussing child custody, the state refers to the process of determining who will decide what when it comes to the children a parental responsibility. Parents must decide on many things when it comes to the kids, such as their health, religion, and education. Time spent with the kids is also a responsibility.
The courts now state that parents may share responsibility for making these decisions, or it may be determined that parents divide these chores. For example, one parent may be tasked with making any decisions regarding the child’s health, while the other parent is responsible for making decisions affecting the child’s education. When a child is with one parent, however, that parent retains the right to make day-to-day decisions. Furthermore, when a child’s health and safety is called into question, the parent who is with the child at that specific moment reserves the right to make decisions without consulting with the other party.
Parents who have a respectful relationship and work well together when it comes to their kids will find this change in terminology has little impact on their parenting. In contrast, parents who do not get along will find that they no longer need to fight over custody, as they each have their own responsibilities. This can be an issue, however, when parents live in different states and one state refers to it as custody, as opposed to parental responsibility.
Any parent who has questions about this change in Illinois law should contact their Child Custody Lawyers in Oswego IL. Many in the area turn to Cosentino Law for assistance. The one thing every parent must remember is the needs of the child must come first at all times. Regardless of who is responsible for any part of a child’s life, the child has no control over this. Therefore, they should be protected from any disagreements. This should be the top priority of any parent at all times.
