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Parenting Time & Decision-Making
Guidance on allocation of parental responsibilities, parenting time schedules, decision-making, and what Illinois courts consider in custody matters.


Co-Parenting Basics
Co-parenting requires ongoing communication and cooperation between parents who are no longer in a relationship. While that can be challenging, particularly in the early stages, a thoughtful and consistent approach can provide children with a sense of stability and security during a time of transition. In many cases, the most successful arrangements are not those without disagreement, but those where parents are able to manage differences in a way that protects the child from

Kathryn L. Ciesla
Feb 113 min read


Preparing for Mediation
Mediation offers an opportunity to resolve issues in a more private and structured setting. When approached thoughtfully, it can provide a path toward resolution that is both efficient and tailored to the needs of the family. Preparation plays a significant role in the productivity of the process. Understanding the Role of Mediation Mediation involves a neutral third party who facilitates discussion and helps guide both parties toward agreement. The mediator does not make dec

Kathryn L. Ciesla
Feb 101 min read


Understanding Parenting Time and Decision-Making
When parents separate, one of the most important and often most sensitive issues is how decisions will be made for the children and how time will be shared. Illinois law no longer uses the term “custody.” Instead, courts focus on the allocation of parental responsibilities and parenting time, with the child’s best interests guiding every decision. Understanding how this framework works can help you approach the process with greater clarity and confidence. Parenting Time: How

Kathryn L. Ciesla
Jan 132 min read
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