This post concludes and recaps my series on the handling of child custody cases involving unmarried fathers in Peoria, Illinois. I felt it necessary to write on this topic due to the fact that many dads do not fully understand their options and are unsure of what to expect from such situations. The goal of my last several posts has been to provide information which help fathers to better understand their predicament and to assist them in making an informed choice when the time comes to select an attorney. If you have questions or need assistance then contact my office today to speak with a lawyer.
I have addressed several topics over my recent articles. Issues which I have analyzed include:
- The need to establish paternity and custody
- The process for obtaining a child custody order
- Discovery in child custody cases
- What to expect at a child custody trial
There are several reasons why it is crucial to understand these issues. First, one does not have a right to see their child or have parental input until paternity has been established. This is due to the fact that, without an establishment of parentage, one is not considered “dad” in the eyes of the law. Second, while a case can take some time to be fully completed, a preliminary custody and visitation order can often be obtained rather quickly. This can allow a father to have visitation and input sooner rather than later. Third, the discovery process is critical to building one’s case as it is the mechanism through which evidence is gathered. Without such evidence one may not be able to prove their case at trial. Finally, knowing what to expect from the trial process will help to ensure that things go as smoothly as possible.
One point I have made through each of these articles is that it is crucial to contact a family law attorney to assist you in such matters. Counsel will be familiar with the law, the rules of procedure, and the rules of evidence. This will help to ensure that your case is handled appropriately from beginning to end. Also important is the fact that counsel will assist you in understanding what it is you need to do in order to prove to the Court that you are a fit parent. Such advice may include issues related to your work schedule, your living situation, etc. By contacting a fathers’ rights attorney you help to ensure that you put yourself in the best possible position.
Contact my office today to schedule an initial consultation. In addition to Peoria, 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.