St. Clair County and Belleville, Illinois Child Custody and Visitation Lawyers
Addressing child custody matters in St. Clair County, Illinois can feel complex and overwhelming. At Stange Law Firm, PC, we help parents understand what local courts look for and how custody-related decisions are made, providing clear guidance aimed at achieving practical and effective outcomes. Having insight into how these matters are typically handled can reduce uncertainty and help you move forward with greater confidence.
While Illinois courts are required to base custody-related decisions on the best interests of the child, each judge brings individual experience and perspective to the courtroom. Understanding local court procedures and how St. Clair County judges approach custody issues can be an important part of effectively navigating a case.
Illinois law now resolves what were traditionally known as “custody” and “visitation” issues through the allocation of parental responsibilities and parenting time, as set forth in a parenting plan. This framework emphasizes thoughtful planning and clear decision-making authority. Our firm is well-versed in this approach and has long focused on developing comprehensive parenting plans designed to meet the needs of both parents and children.
At Stange Law Firm, PC, our attorneys are familiar with how custody matters are addressed in St. Clair County courts. No matter where you live within the county, you benefit from experience, knowledge, and insight guiding you through each step of the process.
You can also obtain more information about the St. Clair County Court by going to the following links:
- Map to St. Clair County Courthouse: Do you need a map to the St. Clair County courthouse? Click on this link provided to help!
- St. Clair County Domestic Relations Forms: Looking for any additional St. Clair County domestic relations forms? Click here.
- St. Clair County Local Court Rules: The St. Clair county local court rules list can be found by clicking on this link.
Ready To Help You With Your Child Custody Matter in Belleville, Illinois in St. Clair County
We have experience in all areas of St. Clair County child custody law, including:
- Joint custody, physical custody and legal custody litigation in St. Clair County
- Visitation rights and parenting time matters in St. Clair County
- St. Clair County Relocation matters
- St. Clair County Paternity and DNA test matters for unmarried parents
New Illinois Child Custody Term
In Illinois, what used to be refered to as “child custody” is now referred to as “allocation of parent responsibilities.” In Illinois the court may “allocate” to each parent and allow for both parents to make important decisions in the child’s life. This will allow for both individuals that are involved in the decision making for the child to have mutual input, even if both of the parties do not collaborate well. These areas that include the important decision making for the child are: health, education, religion, and extracurricular activities.
Child Custody in Belleville, Illinois
Child custody matters in Belleville, Illinois are handled under the Illinois Marriage and Dissolution of Marriage Act and typically arise in cases involving a dissolution of marriage, parentage actions, or requests to change an existing parenting arrangement. When parents are unable to reach an agreement, the court will step in to establish orders intended to protect the child’s best interests and provide a stable framework moving forward.
Illinois courts emphasize thoughtful planning and child-focused solutions rather than rigid labels or one-size-fits-all outcomes.
Parental Responsibilities and Parenting Time
Illinois no longer uses traditional custody and visitation terminology. Instead, courts determine child-related issues through a parenting plan that allocates parental responsibilities and parenting time.
Parental responsibilities address who makes major decisions for the child, such as those involving education, healthcare, and extracurricular activities. Parenting time establishes the schedule for when the child is with each parent. These responsibilities may be shared or primarily allocated to one parent, depending on what best supports the child.
How Courts Approach Custody Decisions
When evaluating parenting arrangements, courts in Belleville apply a best-interests-of-the-child standard. Judges may review a wide range of factors, including:
Each parent’s involvement in the child’s life
The child’s relationship with parents and other important individuals
The child’s adjustment to home, school, and community
Each parent’s ability to communicate and cooperate
The mental and physical health of the parties involved
Any history of domestic violence or safety concerns
The practical impact of parenting schedules on the child
Illinois law does not give preference to one parent based on gender, income, or marital status.
Parenting Plans
Parents are generally required to submit a detailed parenting plan outlining parental responsibilities and parenting time. These plans are designed to minimize conflict, clarify expectations, and create consistency for children. If parents cannot agree, the court will establish a parenting plan based on the evidence presented.
Custody Issues Involving Unmarried Parents
For parents who are not married, parental rights and responsibilities are determined through a parentage action. Once legal parentage is established, either parent may seek the allocation of parental responsibilities and parenting time.
Safety and Child Protection
Courts must consider any allegations or evidence of domestic violence or abuse when determining parenting arrangements. If concerns exist, the court may impose restrictions or conditions to protect the child’s safety and well-being.
Modifying Parenting Orders
Parenting orders may be modified when there has been a substantial change in circumstances and the requested modification would serve the child’s best interests. Courts review these requests carefully to balance stability with the child’s changing needs.
Child Custody Matters in Belleville and St. Clair County
Child custody cases for families in Belleville are handled through the courts serving St. Clair County, Illinois. Parenting plans are commonly required, and mediation may be encouraged to help parents reach workable solutions. The court’s goal is to establish parenting arrangements that support the child’s long-term stability, safety, and development.
Contact a St. Clair County, Illinois and Belleville Child Custody Attorney
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 any of our St. Clair County Office:
St. Clair County (Belleville), IL Office: 618-310-3711 Click to learn more about this location. 115 Lincoln Place Court, Suite 101, Belleville, Illinois 62221.
