A father wants things to be ideal for his children. There are many situations in which separated parents are able to effectively co-parent. There are other times, however, in which a dad becomes concerned that his child is not being adequately cared for while he or she is with the mother. In such instances it can become necessary to go back to Court and modify the existing child custody arrangement. If you find yourself requiring such a modification then it is important to go to Court sooner rather than later. I am a Peoria attorney who helps Illinois fathers in cases requiring a change of child custody. Contact my office today to speak with a lawyer.
Fathers’ rights lawyer helping Peoria dads modify their child custody orders
It is important to understand that you cannot request a change of custody simply because you want it. Modifying custody, which is known as “visitation time” in Illinois, requires you to show that there has been a significant change in circumstances since your last custodial order and that it is now in the child’s best interests for you to be the primary custodian. A substantial change in circumstances can be anything from a new work schedule to one parent’s developing an addiction problem. If you can show that a change of circumstances has occurred then the Court will determine what is in the child’s best interests by analyzing factors such as the needs of the child, the source of any conflict between the parents, the stability of each parent, etc. If custody is modified then the Court will also make any necessary adjustments to child support.
The first step in modifying an Illinois custody order is to file a Motion with the Court. This is a formal document in which your attorney will explain the circumstances which have changed since the Judge’s last custodial order. Counsel will also use your Motion to explain how a new arrangement will serve your child’s best interests. At the initial hearing the Judge may possibly grant a temporary modification with a permanent decision to be made at trial. Discovery, the process by which information is gained from the other side, will then be used to gather evidence in support of your case. The matter will culminate at a trial after which the Judge will make a decision. This is a complicated process and retaining an experienced lawyer can make a difference in your case.
I am a Peoria fathers’ rights lawyer helping dads who need to modify their child custody arrangement. I will use your initial consultation to gain an understanding of your situation and to help you understand what you should expect from the process. I will quickly file your Motion with the Court and, if the situation involves an emergency, I will request an expedited hearing. Discovery will be used to gather evidence such as phone records, email, employment records, police reports, and more. My office will be in regular contact with you throughout this process and will ensure that you know what to expect at trial. I understand that you are facing a serious situation and I will take it seriously. Contact my office today .
Affordable attorney assisting dads in Peoria, Illinois
Many people are struggling in today’s economy and I recognize that legal services are expensive. A father should not be made to choose between fighting for his child and paying his bills. I strive to provide affordable service to Peoria fathers by handling most matters for a set flat fee. This allows you to know how much your legal bills will be and prevents you from having unexpected litigation expenses. This approach allows you to use your funds where they matter most – on your family. I am a former prosecutor and strive to provide everyone with strong representation.
I also service the cities of Bloomington, Eureka, Galesburg, Morton, Normal, Pekin, Springfield, and Washington. I serve the counties of Fulton, Knox, LaSalle, Marshall, Mason, McLean, Putnam, Rock Island, Schuyler, Stark, Tazewell, and Woodford.