Courts Consider Child Input in Child Custody Cases in DuPage County
In some situations, a child's preference is an important factor that courts will consider during disputes regarding child custody, now called the allocation of parental responsibilities in Illinois. Sometimes, this means that a parent or both parents will accommodate a child's wishes. Other times, this may mean the child's preference is used as a component in determining the outcome of the matter. In either case, it is important for you to understand what juvenile rights your child has in family law proceedings. You can get any answers that you require from an experienced lawyer.
At Andrew Cores Family Law Group, our Kane County family law attorneys are committed to helping children and their families. In addition to serving as guardians ad litem for child-related cases in DuPage County, we also protect the interests of children in court by asserting their juvenile rights. We have extensive knowledge of Illinois family law and a strong reputation in the legal community.
Experienced Representation for Children and Parents in Illinois
The court will always make decisions based on what it considers to be the child's best interest. A child's preference will certainly not be the only factor considered by the family court in a child custody case. The weight that this preference has will vary depending on certain factors, such as the child's age and maturity. A judge may also look at the desires of each parent, the best ways to preserve relationships between the child and both parents, and any history of domestic violence, substance abuse, or other issues that could affect a child's health and safety when they spend parenting time with either parent.
The older that a child gets, the more weight his or her preference will likely have with the court. The opinions of a child who appears to be mature and responsible may receive greater weight than those of a child who does not. If a judge seeks input from a child regarding child custody issues, they will typically meet with the child privately rather than requiring them to testify in court.
Ideally, a family court judge will seek to ensure that a parenting agreement provides for a child's best interests by allowing both parents to be closely involved in their life and maintaining a stable home environment at all times. A child's preferences may not be the sole deciding factor, but it may help the judge determine how to resolve disputes between parents and put workable arrangements in place that will protect the child's rights and provide for their best interests.
Contact Our DuPage County Child Custody Lawyers
Contact us at Andrew Cores Family Law Group to schedule a free initial consultation by calling 630-407-1225. We represent clients in the DuPage County and Kendall County areas.
