Issues That Impact Your Rights in Child Time Sharing Proceedings

Emotions tend to run high in child time sharing proceedings. When disagreements and disputes between the parents spill over into court proceedings, it can end up impacting the amount of time you get to spend with your child. It is not uncommon for one party to bring up past actions or bad behaviors on the part of a spouse. In these situations, there are some specific actions you need to take to protect your rights.  

Past Actions That Can Impact Child Time Sharing Arrangements

When parents are unable to agree on arrangements for their children and how they are provided for on a regular basis, court proceedings may be required to resolve the issue. Under the Illinois Statutes (750 ILCS 5/600), parental responsibilities will be allocated between the two parties based on the specific circumstances involved. This includes where the child lives, the amount of time each parent gets to spend with the child over holidays, school breaks, or special occasions, and the responsibility for making decisions on the child’s behalf.  

While the court generally encourages both parents to remain active and involved in these proceedings, ensuring the child’s safety and well-being are the primary concern. Unfortunately, issues from your past could impact your current parental rights. These include: 

• A history of illegal acts and associations with those who engage in criminal activity;
• Previous struggles with drug, alcohol, or other addictions;
• A history of violent or abusive behavior;
• Diagnosis of mental health disorders for which you have not received treatment. 

In addition to these past issues, current behaviors can also jeopardize your rights to child time sharing. This includes appearing late at hearings, failing to submit the appropriate documents, and appearing hostile towards the other parent or to the judge in your case. 

Protecting Your Rights as a Parent

All of the above are issues which could impact your rights when creating a parenting plan in Illinois. However, there are steps you can take which can help minimize the effects these issues have on your case. These include: 

• Providing proof that you have completed all sentencing requirements in criminal matters and have adhered to all court recommendations;
• Showing that you have sought treatment for mental health problems, addictions, or behavioral issues you may be suffering from in the past;
• Showing your willingness to cooperate with any current court recommendations, requirements, and orders issued in your case;
• Maintain your decorum in court and responding appropriately during proceedings. 

Get Our Will County Child Time Sharing Attorneys on Your Side

Issues from the past do not need to impact your future. At Sabuco, Beck, Hansen, and Massino, P.C., we act as a strong advocate to protect your rights. Call or contact our Will County child time sharing attorneys today and request a consultation.