While Illinois is a no-fault divorce state, which means that couples can get a divorce by simply completing a six-month estrangement period, child custody and parenting time remains a contested subject. Unlike mutually owned assets, children are greatly affected by the separation of their parents, therefore the court exercises its discretion to ensure that the negative impact of the divorce on the child is minimal. According to statistics, courts tend to give their verdicts in favor of the mothers as they hold the view that living with the mother is in the best interests of the child. This is considered to be an unfair condition for fathers who wish to spend as much time with their kids as they can.
What role do child custody lawyers play in such cases?
Empowered by years of experience, child custody lawyers play a significant role in ensuring that you resolve the child custody issues in a manner which is acceptable to both parties and does not unfairly grant one parent more time with the child than the other. A good lawyer might be able to get you joint custody and arrange for reasonable parenting time arrangements. In case you are unable to get sole or shared custody, an experienced child custody lawyer can help you develop a reasonable parenting time schedule so that you can spend quality time with your child.
According to a report, fathers with custody of their children was as low as 17% while a whopping 83% of the mothers were awarded the sole or partial custody of the children. If you are a father who wishes to keep his kids with him after divorce, a good divorce or child custody lawyer is your best bet. By presenting a solid case for how you are the better person to take care of your child as compared to the other parent, you can increase your chances of getting the custody of your child. Even if that is not possible, a reputable child custody lawyer can help you arrange a parenting time schedule which adequately satiates your need to spend time with your child.
If you want to find out more about parenting time or wish to schedule a free consultation with an experienced family lawyer, contact Fitzgerald Law Firm today.