Understanding Child Custody in Illinois
Child custody cases are a priority with The Murphy Law Group. While our attorneys try many child custody cases in the Peoria and Central Illinois area, the majority of cases we handle are ultimately settled by lengthy and hard fought negotiation. Our belief is that two parents acting rationally and with the help of two experienced family law attorneys will make a better decision regarding the care and custody of their children than will one judge who barely knows you. However, that does not always work. In those cases, we are there for you to litigate the issues in a favorable manner for you to win custody.
Types of Child Custody
In Illinois, there are two types of child custody: legal custody and physical custody.
Legal custody concerns the right to make and be involved in major decisions concerning the health care, education and religion of your child or children. If both parents have joint legal custody, then neither parent has the final say over these issues. If the two parents cannot agree, then the issue goes to mediation. If one parent has sole legal custody, then he or she does not need to consult the other parent when making these major decisions. Custody issues are the most important issue you can have in a divorce case and should not be taken lightly. You need a high quality custody lawyer to assist you in this area of the law no matter what.
Physical custody is where the child lives. Physical custody can be shared or one parent can have sole physical custody. If one parent has sole physical custody, then the other parent will have visitation according to a schedule that is negotiated between the parents and their attorneys.
Resolving Child Custody Disputes
In Illinois, child custody is determined by the best interests of the children. If the two parents cannot agree on the child's best interests, then Illinois courts will require that the parents participate in mediation.
G. Edward Murphy and Theresa B. Murphy are certified family law mediators. We can help you mediate or arbitrate a child custody dispute. Theresa B. Murphy and Elizabeth M. Turton are also Guardians ad Litem, who are authorized to represent children and their best interests in contested custody matters.
Free Initial Attorney Consultation
There is no charge for the initial consultation at our firm. To set up an appointment, please call us at 866-681-5405, or fill out the contact form on this Web site. We are located at 2886 W. Willow Knolls Drive, Peoria, Illinois 61614. Parking is also free.
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How visitation works in Illinois
