What Not to Do When You Are in an Illinois Child Custody Dispute

 Posted on March 05, 2021 in Child Custody

Most people will agree that when it comes to a child’s best interests, his or her parents typically know what would best fit the child, better than anyone else. However, when parents get divorced, it is not always feasible to expect them to work together and come up with a parenting plan that they both agree on. Many times, marriages have deteriorated to the point that the parents are unable to effectively or respectfully communicate with one another, even for the sake of their children. As stressful and difficult as the divorce process is for you, it is just as, if not more stressful for your children. Child custody disputes are not uncommon, especially in high-conflict divorces. However, exposure to the conflict has been shown to be detrimental to children. If you anticipate difficulty from your spouse when it comes time to negotiate your parenting time and parental decision-making responsibilities, there are certain things you should try to spare your children from.

Do Not Speak Unkindly to One Another

Even though you may feel less than friendly toward your soon-to-be ex, that is still your child’s other parent. They still love both of their parents and do not want to hear either parent saying mean or negative comments about the other, as it can be hurtful to them too.

Follow the Temporary Orders Set in Place

During a divorce with children, a judge will often enter temporary orders for parenting time and decision-making responsibilities for you and your spouse to follow until your divorce is finalized. If you are going through a disagreement with your spouse and the court is involved, it is important that you exercise any parenting time and parental rights that were awarded to you, so the court sees you are serious about your stance on your child’s custody. You must also follow these orders, as they are court orders, and disobeying them could result in negative consequences.

Keep Your Children Out of It

As strange as it may sound, it is just altogether better if you do not involve your children in any aspect of your custody decision-making. Your children love both you and your spouse and it is not fair to anyone to make your child choose between the two of you. Children want to love their parents equally, so putting that pressure on them is not fair.

Speak to Our Batavia Child Custody Attorney Today

Even though getting the court involved is the last resort, it is sometimes inevitable. At the Law Office of Matthew M. Williams, P.C., we have helped numerous families through the custody dispute process, both in and out of the courtroom. The process of putting together a comprehensive parenting plan can seem daunting, but our skilled Kane County child custody lawyer can help break everything down into sections that you can manage. To get started discussing your case, call our office today at 630-409-8184.

Sources:

https://www.ilga.gov/legislation/ilcs/fulltext.asp?DocName=075000050K602.7

https://www.verywellfamily.com/dos-and-donts-for-winning-child-custody-2998180

https://www.fatherly.com/love-money/10-tips-for-surviving-custody-battles-experienced-fathers/