Sangamon County and Springfield, Illinois Child Custody Lawyers / Attorneys
If you are in the midst of a child custody dispute in Sangamon County, Illinois, Stange Law Firm, PC is a firm you can rely on for guidance and representation. Our attorneys help clients understand what courts look for when addressing custody issues and how decisions regarding legal and physical custody are made under Illinois law.
In Illinois, custody matters are addressed through a parenting plan that allocates parental responsibilities and parenting time, rather than using the traditional terms “custody” and “visitation.” These plans are designed to clearly define decision-making authority and parenting schedules in a way that promotes stability for children. We welcome this approach and bring substantial experience in resolving custody matters through detailed and comprehensive parenting plans.
When possible, we believe that resolving custody issues through settlement can be beneficial for children by reducing conflict between parents. However, when an agreement cannot be reached, our firm is prepared to advocate for you in court, representing your interests diligently while keeping the children’s well-being at the forefront.
Springfield, IL Child Custody Attorneys in Sangamon County
Many of our lawyers have received awards and accolades. You can see those awards in their biographies.
You can also obtain more information about the Sangamon County Court in Springfield, Illinois by going to the following links:
Sangamon County Circuit Clerk’s Office: Click this link to find more information on the Sangamon County Circuit Clerk’s office
Sangamon County Court Rules: More information about the Sangamon County court rules can be found at this link here.
Map to Sangamon County Courthouse: Are you in need of directions to the Sangamon County Courthouse? Click on the link provided.
Sangamon County Domestic Relations Forms: Find the Sangamon County legal forms you’re looking for here.
Springfield, Illinois Child Custody Lawyers Ready To Boldly Represent Your Interests in Custody Cases in Sangamon County, Illinois
We represent clients in an array of child custody matters, including:
Joint custody, physical custody and legal custody arrangements in Springfield, IL
Visitation rights and parenting time enforcement in Springfield, IL
Springfield, IL Relocation cases: View information about relocation cases in Springfield, IL.
Springfield, IL dissolution of marriage lawyers: Find information about dissolution attorneys in Springfield, IL here.
Springfield, IL paternity cases: Information about paternity cases in Springfield, IL can be found here.
At Stange Law Firm, PC, we only practice domestic relations law. If you choose our firm, you will have a law firm by your side with the experience, compassion and insight to navigate you through your case no matter where you live in Sangamon County, Illinois.
Changes to Illinois Child Custody Law
In Illinois, the term “child custody” is no longer being used. Now, courts call it “allocation of parental responsibilities.” Each parent is “allocated” decision-making power by Illinois courts on important decisions, such as: health, religion, education and extracurricular activities. Some parents have a hard time communicating well with each other and this new rule allows parents to still both be involved in the life of their child even if communication is problematic between them.
Child Custody in Springfield, Illinois
Child custody matters in Springfield, Illinois are governed by the Illinois Marriage and Dissolution of Marriage Act and commonly arise in cases involving a dissolution of marriage, parentage actions, or requests to modify an existing parenting order. When parents are unable to reach an agreement, the court will enter orders designed to protect the child’s best interests while promoting stability and consistency in the child’s life.
Illinois law approaches child custody with an emphasis on cooperation, clear planning, and the child’s long-term well-being.
Parental Responsibilities and Parenting Time in Illinois
Illinois no longer uses traditional custody and visitation terminology. Instead, courts resolve child custody issues through the allocation of parental responsibilities and parenting time.
Parental responsibilities address decision-making authority over major areas of a child’s life, such as education, healthcare, religious upbringing, and extracurricular activities. Parenting time establishes the schedule for when the child is with each parent.
These responsibilities may be shared between parents or allocated primarily to one parent, depending on what arrangement best serves the child.
How Courts Evaluate Custody Issues
When determining parental responsibilities and parenting time, Illinois courts apply a best-interests-of-the-child standard. Judges may consider a variety of factors, including:
Each parent’s involvement in the child’s daily life
The child’s relationship with parents, siblings, and other significant individuals
The child’s adjustment to home, school, and community
Each parent’s ability to cooperate and communicate regarding the child
The mental and physical health of all parties
Any history of domestic violence, abuse, or safety concerns
The practical impact of parenting schedules on the child
Illinois law does not favor one parent over the other based on gender, income, or marital status.
Parenting Plans
Parents are generally required to submit a parenting plan outlining parental responsibilities and parenting time. Parenting plans are intended to reduce conflict, set clear expectations, and provide structure for the child. If parents cannot agree on a plan, the court will establish one based on the evidence presented.
Custody Matters Involving Unmarried Parents
For parents who are not married, custody and parenting rights are established through a parentage action. Once legal parentage is confirmed, either parent may seek the allocation of parental responsibilities and parenting time.
Domestic Violence and Child Safety
Illinois courts must consider any allegations or evidence of domestic violence or abuse when making decisions regarding parental responsibilities and parenting time. If safety concerns exist, the court may impose restrictions or conditions to protect the child.
Modifying Parenting Orders
Parenting orders may be modified when there has been a substantial change in circumstances and the requested modification would be in the child’s best interests. Courts carefully evaluate modification requests to balance stability with the child’s evolving needs.
Child Custody Matters in Springfield and Sangamon County
Child custody cases in Springfield are handled through the courts serving Sangamon County. Parenting plans are commonly required, and mediation may be encouraged to help parents reach workable solutions. The court’s primary goal is to establish parenting arrangements that support the child’s long-term stability, safety, and overall development.
Contact Springfield, IL Child Custody Lawyers / Attorneys in Sangamon County
Are you looking to hire an experienced child custody attorney to help you with your child custody matter? If so, contact us online or by phone to schedule a confidential consultation at our Sangamon County Office in Springfield. Information about this location is below:
Sangamon County (Springfield), IL Office: 217-717-8605. Click to learn more about this location. 400 S. 9th St., Suite 100, Springfield, Illinois 62701.
