Child-Related Matters Attorneys In Lake County
Whether you are starting a difficult allocation of parental responsibilities (formerly known as custody) case or find yourself in the middle of a contentious dispute, we can help you resolve matters with as little conflict as possible. We are Shyama S. Parikh, P.C., a law firm serving clients throughout the Waukegan area with family law concerns. In addition to more than 50 years of combined experience, we offer the empathy you need and deserve during a challenging time.
Comprehensive Legal Services for Parents
We handle a broad spectrum of child-related legal issues, ensuring that your parental rights are protected and your child’s needs are met. Our experience allows us to anticipate challenges before they arise, providing you with a clear roadmap for the journey ahead.
We can assist with the following child-related matters:
- Allocation of parental responsibilities: Formerly known as custody, this involves determining which parent makes significant decisions regarding a child’s education, health, religion and extracurricular activities. We help clients establish whether these responsibilities should be shared or primarily assigned to one parent in the event of a disagreement.
- Parenting time: Formerly known as visitation, parenting time refers to the actual time the child physically spends with each parent. We work to develop reasonable schedules that accommodate work commitments and the child’s obligations, coupled with numerous other considerations that are laid out in the statute.
- Child support and expenses: We help parents seek and calculate statutory child support or offer insight on when a deviation may be appropriate. Also, if one parent is underemployed, your case may require a request for income to be imputed on the other parent. We can assist that in addition to child support, there are appropriate contributions toward additional expenses such as daycare, medical bills, school tuition and extracurricular fees.
- Parentage and paternity: Establishing legal parentage is a vital step for securing support and setting of parenting time. We represent both mothers and fathers in these foundational legal actions. There are certain deadlines and guidelines to request a DNA test and to contest parentage/paternity. In addition, there are instances when retroactive support and contribution towards pregnancy and birth-related expenses are also appropriate; they can be waived if they are not timely sought.
- Relocation: Moving a child away from their primary residence, formerly known as removal, requires following strict statutory guidelines. There is an entire section of the statute devoted to properly giving notice, agreeing to or objecting to relocation, and when a Petition may need to be filed. We have successfully litigated cases both for and against relocation.
By offering personalized strategies for each of these areas, we ensure that our clients have the information and support they need to make the best decisions for their households.
Understanding Illinois Allocation Of Parental Responsibilities
As of January 1, 2016, Illinois family law statutes were changed and the word “custody” is no longer used. Parents are now allocated parental responsibilities, either primary or shared, regarding medical, education, religion and activities of minor children. Either parent has the right to seek child support as well as a contribution towards other expenses of the minor children, such as medical, education, daycare and activities. One of the factors the court considers is the parenting time allotted to each parent.
The parties are required to attend mediation if there is no agreement regarding the allocation of parental responsibilities. If mediation is unsuccessful, the court will likely appoint a Guardian ad Litem (GAL) or Child Representative (CR) to work with the family. If the parties cannot reach an agreement with the assistance of the GAL or CR, there will be a hearing/trial and the judge will make a decision. In high conflict cases, the court may appoint a Parenting Coordinator (“PC’) once the Allocation/Custody Judgment is entered.
Understanding Allocation of Parental Responsibilities (Custody)
As of January 1, 2016, Illinois law shifted away from the term “custody” to “allocation of parental responsibilities.” This change reflects a more collaborative approach to parenting. There is no legal presumption favoring shared or primary decision-making; instead, the court looks at what serves the child’s best interests.
In Lake County, if parents cannot reach an agreement on these topics, they are required to attend mediation. If mediation is unsuccessful, the court may appoint a Guardian ad Litem or a Child Representative. Because founding attorney Shyama S. Parikh is a court-approved Mediator and Child Representative, we offer our clients deep insight into how these court-appointed experts evaluate family dynamics. We use this knowledge to prepare you for gathering information, meeting with them and ensuring your voice is heard.
Modifying Existing Court Orders
Life changes, and sometimes a court order that worked years ago no longer fits your family’s reality. Whether due to a change in employment, a move or a shift in the child’s needs, we assist with the modification of parenting time and decision making. Generally, these orders can be modified after two years if it is in the best interests of the child. Earlier modifications are possible in cases of serious endangerment.
Speak With An Experienced Lawyer About Your Child(ren) Today
There is nothing more important to you than your child(ren). We understand and agree. That is why we always treat you with compassion, respect and empathy. When you are ready, schedule your free initial consultation. Call 847-557-1517 or send us an email.
