Child Custody and Support

Child custody and support are crucial aspects of family law, ensuring the well-being of children when parents separate or divorce. Here’s a breakdown:

Child Custody

In Illinois, child custody is legally referred to as the allocation of parental responsibilities. This includes:

• Decision-Making Responsibility – Determines which parent has authority over major aspects of the child’s life, such as education, healthcare, and religion.
• Parenting Time – Defines how much time the child spends with each parent and where they reside.

Illinois courts prioritize the best interests of the child when making custody decisions. Factors considered include:

• The child’s needs and well-being.
• The parents’ ability to cooperate and communicate.
• The child’s relationship with each parent.
• Any history of domestic violence or abuse.

Child Support

Child support ensures that financial responsibilities for raising a child are fairly distributed. In Illinois, child support is calculated based on:

• Each parent’s income.
• The number of children.
• Parenting time arrangements.

Courts may adjust child support based on special circumstances, such as medical expenses or educational needs.