Aurora, IL Custody Evaluation Attorneys

Respected Lawyers for Child Custody Evaluations in Aurora, Illinois

In many family law cases, parents can work together to address issues related to child custody. As they make decisions about how to divide parenting time and decision-making authority, they may use methods such as collaborative law to reach agreements and establish a parenting plan that will meet their family's needs. However, this cooperative approach is not always possible. When communication breaks down, or when concerns arise about a child's safety, the court may need to step in and evaluate the case or make the final decisions.

Illinois law requires courts to prioritize the best interests of the child when determining how child custody matters will be addressed. Evaluators or other professionals may become involved in a case if a judge believes that this is necessary. These cases can quickly become complex, and they are often emotionally charged. Experienced legal representation is essential to ensure that a parent's rights will be protected and that the decisions made will focus on the child's well-being.

At The Law Office of Matthew M. Williams, P.C., we can guide clients through every phase of contested child custody proceedings. Whether you are facing an uncooperative co-parent, serious concerns about your child's safety, or disputes over the terms of your parenting plan, we will work closely with you to reach a fair and effective resolution while safeguarding your rights and protecting your child's best interests.

Steps Followed in Illinois Child Custody Disputes

Under the guidelines set by the Supreme Court of Illinois, child custody cases are expected to be resolved within 18 months after they are initiated. Resolving disputes quickly and effectively can help a family establish a sense of stability for children while preventing them from being exposed to disputes between parents.

When agreement between parents cannot be reached, the court may take the following steps:

Court-Ordered Mediation

A judge may order parents to work together with an independent, neutral mediator to resolve any outstanding disputes related to child custody. Mediation is non-adversarial and private, allowing parents the opportunity to express their concerns and discuss their preferences while finding solutions that they can agree on. The mediator will help the parents draft a comprehensive parenting agreement that will be submitted to the court for approval.

Mediation can often help reduce conflict while allowing parents to resolve disputes quickly and efficiently. However, it may not be appropriate in all cases. In situations involving domestic violence, high levels of conflict, or mental health issues, other options may be used.

Custody Evaluation by a Mental Health Professional

In some cases, the court may order a custody evaluation. A licensed evaluator, such as a psychologist or psychiatrist, will conduct a comprehensive review of the family's circumstances to provide recommendations to the court.

This process usually involves interviews with the parents and children, psychological assessments, and observations of parent-child interactions. The evaluator will prepare a written report with recommendations on how parental responsibilities and parenting time should be allocated. This report will be submitted to the court, but it is not binding, and either party may challenge the findings or request a second evaluation.

Appointment of a Guardian ad Litem

In cases where a judge believes a more focused investigation is necessary, they may appoint a Guardian ad Litem (GAL). A GAL is an attorney who will serve as the legal representative for the child, advocating for their best interests.

The GAL's role includes:

• Conducting interviews with the child, both parents, and other people who may provide relevant information about a family's situation
• Reviewing records such as school reports, medical documents, and criminal histories
• Making recommendations to the court through written reports or testimony

A GAL investigation can provide a judge with valuable insights, helping them understand the child's needs. While a judge is not required to follow a GAL's recommendations, they will often give the GAL's opinions a great deal of consideration as they make decisions about child custody.

Protecting Parental Rights and Children's Best Interests

A judge will assess multiple factors to determine what arrangements for parenting time and the allocation of parental responsibilities will be best for the child. These factors include:

• The child's relationship with each parent
• Each parent's ability to meet the child's physical and emotional needs
• The presence of any risk factors, including abuse, neglect, or substance use
• The child's adjustment to their home, school, and community
• The wishes of the child, depending on their age and maturity

At The Law Office of Matthew M. Williams, P.C., we help clients understand what steps may be followed in their cases and how they can resolve any issues that may arise. We can provide guidance on what to do during a child custody evaluation or GAL investigation, and we will ensure that all relevant facts are presented effectively during legal proceedings. We can help determine when legal safeguards such as supervised visitation or temporary restraining orders may be necessary to protect a child's safety.

Contact Our Aurora Child Custody Evaluation Lawyers

As you determine how to handle legal disputes related to your children, The Law Office of Matthew M. Williams, P.C. can provide you with effective legal help. Whenever possible, we work to resolve these issues through negotiation or mediation, but we can also advocate on your behalf in court when necessary. We will work with you to find solutions that will allow your family to move forward successfully. Contact our Aurora, IL child custody dispute attorneys at 630-409-8184 to schedule a free consultation with our team.