What Goes Into an Illinois Parenting Plan?

 Posted on December 14, 2018 in Uncategorized

In creating a divorce agreement, all parental decisions are based upon the parenting plan established through negotiation, mediation, or by a judge. A parenting plan is a document which determines the specifics of parental responsibility. Regardless of its origination, once a divorce decree is approved, its provisions become legally enforceable.

This legal document protects your parenting rights in the present and in the future, should your ex-spouse choose not to cooperate at any point. Additionally, the plan establishes distinct guidelines to prevent disputes. When in doubt, you are always able to refer to the plan.

Parenting Plan Examples

What you include in a parenting plan depends entirely on the circumstances of your situation. If you and your spouse can work together through your attorneys or a mediator, you can create a plan that works for everyone in the family. If, however, your divorce is destined for litigation, a judge will include:

• The primary address for the child;
• How much time the child spends with each parent;
• Distribution of information about the child;
• Transportation during parental exchanges;
• Which parent makes significant decisions for the child; and
• Relocation restrictions.

Other Relevant Information

Although there are primary details determined through a parenting plan, you can make yours as unique as you wish. For instance, you may want to include how you will resolve disputes when they arise, or how you will modify the existing plan if circumstances change. Other vital aspects you may wish to include are:

• Communication plans for the child and the non-custodial parent;
• Childcare options;
• Visitation schedules with grandparents and other family members;
• Travel plans;
• Extracurricular activities; and
• House rules.

Contact a DuPage County Divorce Lawyer

Whether you and your spouse have a relationship that enables you to create a parenting plan with minimal conflict, or you cannot agree on anything, consult a Naperville, IL family law attorney who can help you nail down all specifics. At Pesce Law Group, P.C., we have helped countless clients create personalized parenting plans to fit their needs. Without the assistance of an attorney, you risk confusion, arguments, and order modifications down the road. A detailed plan limits potential conflict, which allows your children to gain stability and cope with the family changes. Let us help you make a plan for your family. Call us today at 630-352-2240 to schedule your free consultation.

Sources:

http://www.ilga.gov/legislation/ilcs/ilcs4.asp?ActID=2086&SeqStart=8300000&SeqEnd=10000000

https://www.divorcemag.com/articles/what-to-include-in-your-parenting-plan/