Child Custody

Generally speaking there are 2 “types” of Child Custody in Illinois: Joint Custody and Sole Custody.  The basic difference between Joint and Sole Custody is who has what rights to the child’s upbringing–or, who gets to determine what is in the child’s best interest.

If you have Sole Custody the child lives with you (residential custody) and you have the full authority to make ALL decisions about the child’s major life events: medical, religious and educational upbringing.  The non-residential parent still has visitation rights (parenting time) and there are no other changes in the other parent’s rights.  You should read the pages on Residential Custody and Legal Custody for further clarification.  Child Support is probably NOT affected by whether one parent has Sole Custody or the parents have Joint Custody.

If you have some form of  Joint Custody that means both parents have input (or the right to consultation) on the best interests of the child–the religious, medical and educational upbringing.  One parent is still going to be named the “primary residential parent” and the other will have “parenting time”.  Depending on the residential custody arrangement, child support may be adjusted.

To schedule a consultation or to get a better understanding of how custody may affect child support,

call me: 630.409.8184 or e-mail: mmw@divorcelawyerdupage.com

The phone call or e-mail are free, and both are confidential.