Co-parenting after a separation or divorce can be difficult and draining, not only for the adults involved but also for the children trying to adjust to their new family situation. Parents who have just undergone one of the most significant changes of their lives are now navigating new waters without a partner. Children may be experiencing strong emotions themselves, and dealing with change is difficult for the entire family. Fortunately, with some essential shared custody tips in mind, it is...

If your child’s other parent doesn’t show up regularly for scheduled visitation with your shared child, it makes things more difficult for both you and your child. You are naturally concerned about your child’s well-being and exactly how reliable his or her other parent may be when your child is with him or her, but your child also feels the sting of rejection, which makes the situation that much more challenging. If this is the difficult situation you find yourself...

In the State of Illinois, as long as a child’s parents are fit parents – which all parents are presumed to be unless proven otherwise – it is completely within their parents’ discretion to determine whether or not the child can spend time with his or her grandparents (or with anyone else). While a grandparent has the right to petition the court for visitation with his or her grandchildren, there is a considerable legal burden involved. If you have concerns...

Although much of the state is shut down due to COVID-19 concerns, some parts of your life continue on as if nothing has changed. Unfortunately, family and divorce issues do not halt during times of national crisis. In fact, in some circumstances like this one, they can become worse. A stay-at-home order was enacted on March 21st by Illinois governor J.B. Pritzker, giving rise to many questions for parents who are sharing custody of their children. If you have questions...