If you have children and are considering divorce, there are several parenting issues that must be resolved. In some cases, parents can come to an agreement and never have to see the inside of a courtroom. When parents cannot agree on custody and parenting time, however, the disputes can sometimes turn combative and contentious.

Either way, a visitation lawyer in the Bolingbrook area could fight on your behalf for your parental rights. Our attorneys are skilled advocates who understand how important it is for both parents to spend time with their children. We want to protect the relationship between you and your child. Call us today and find out how we can help.

How Is Visitation Determined

In Illinois, legal custody is referred to as “parental responsibility,” and visitation is referred to as “parenting time.” A parent in Bolingbrook will almost always have the right to some amount of parenting time. However, the courts will always defer to the best interest of your children when making decisions about parenting time and parental responsibility.

Some of the factors that may affect the court’s judgment in this regard include:

  • The wishes of the parents
  • The wishes of the child or children
  • The age of the child or children
  • The involvement of the parents in the child’s life
  • The practicality of the visitation schedule
  • The mental and physical health of the parties involved
  • Any indications of abuse

In disputes over visitation or parenting time, it is usually best to mediate these issues if possible. This may allow for less contentious negotiations between you and your spouse, as well as more control over the outcome of the arrangement. If you can come to a peaceful arrangement with your spouse over visitation, it may help minimize conflict in the future and save money on a costly litigation process.

The Role of a Guardian Ad Litem

If you and your spouse cannot reach an agreement in mediation, the court may appoint a guardian ad litem (“GAL”) on your children’s behalf during parenting time disputes. The guardian ad litem is an attorney with the sole responsibility of protecting your children’s interests.

It is important to note that these attorneys are present only for your children, and not to protect or represent the interests of either you or your spouse. They are especially important for younger children who do not have the means to communicate their needs.

Contacting a Bolingbrook Visitation Attorney

If you are currently experiencing a visitation issue in Bolingbrook, make sure to reach out to a visitation attorney right away. Our experienced lawyers could help you find the best solution to maintain peace with your co-parent—and more importantly, the relationship between you and your child. Our legal team at Reidy Law Office LLC has successfully represented both custodial and non-custodial parents in visitation disputes. Whether through negotiation or zealous in-court advocacy, our firm could fight to protect your rights. Call today to schedule a consultation with a Bolingbrook visitation lawyer and get started on your case.