In Illinois, the state focuses on ensuring that both parents of a child have protected legal rights. It is often assumed that mothers have most parenting rights over their children, but this is not always the case. The state assumes that both parents are adequately caring for their child, and so there are legal protections in place to ensure both parents have equal rights when it comes to parenting. If a couple decides to divorce during a marriage, both the mother and father have legal rights to custody, visitation, and parental decisions. In exceptional circumstances, parents can have their legal rights taken from them.
What Type of Parenting Rights are Protected?
Suppose custody is established, and that parent has not expressed an inability or disinterest in caring for that child. In that case, the parent has legal parenting rights. Typically, these rights are exercised during a divorce, separation, or a significant life-changing decision. The parental rights that are protected in the state of Illinois include:
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The right to visitation with your child
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