Four Reasons to Modify an Illinois Parenting Plan

 Posted on April 19, 2023 in Child Custody / Allocation of Parental Responsibilities

In Illinois, a parenting plan is a legal document that outlines the rights and responsibilities of divorced, separated, or unmarried parents. A parenting plan is required for all cases involving child custody and visitation. While a parenting plan is intended to be a long-term agreement, there are situations in which it may need to be modified. Ann experienced divorce attorney can be an invaluable resource as you make modifications to your parenting plan that are conducive to your new situation.

Reasons Why a Parenting Plan May Need to Be Modified

• Reason #1 – Change in circumstances – One of the most common reasons a parenting plan needs to be modified is a change of circumstances. A change in circumstance may include a job loss, relocation, or a significant change in income. If a change in circumstances has impacted a parent’s ability to care for their child, they may need to request a modification of the parenting plan. In this case, the parent would need to demonstrate that the change in circumstances is significant enough to warrant a modification of the parenting plan.
• Reason #2 – Violation of the parenting plan – If one parent is not following the parenting plan terms, the other parent may need to seek a modificaton. For example, if one parent consistently fails to pick up or drop off the child at the designated time or location, this could violate the parenting plan. In this case, the other parent may need to seek a modification to address the issue and ensure the parenting plan is followed.
• Reason #3 – Child’s needs have changed – As children grow older, their needs often change. For example, as a child gets older, they may require more or less structure in their schedule or may need to spend more time with one parent than the other. If the child’s needs have changed, one or both parents may need to request a modification to the parenting plan to ensure that the child’s best interests are being served.
• Reason #4 – Safety concerns – If a parent has concerns about their child’s safety while in the care of the other parent, they may need to seek a modification to the parenting plan. Safety concerns include physical or emotional abuse, neglect, or substance abuse. In this case, the parent would need to demonstrate that the child’s safety is at risk and that a modification of the parenting plan is necessary to protect the child.

Contact a DuPage County Divorce Attorney

For more information regarding modifying your parenting plan, contact the experienced Naperville, IL divorce lawyers with Calabrese Associates, P.C.. Call 630-393-3111 for a private consultation.

Source:

https://www.forbes.com/advisor/legal/child-custody/reasons-judge-will-change-custody/