Why You Need a Child Custody Lawyer in Illinois
Custody disputes aren’t just about legal rights—they’re about your child’s future. Our family law firm prioritizes your child’s best interests while also safeguarding your role as a parent. Illinois custody law—now referred to as “allocation of parental responsibilities and parenting time”—can be complex, especially when parents disagree. That’s why our legal team offers straightforward guidance, personalized representation, and strategic advocacy tailored to your family’s needs.
We help you navigate every step of the custody process, from initial filings and mediation to courtroom litigation if necessary. Whether you’re seeking to establish a parenting plan, modify an existing order, or resolve custody as part of your divorce, we focus on creating practical solutions that support stability and a positive co-parenting relationship. Our goal is to reduce conflict where possible while fiercely protecting your parental rights. With The Law Office of Dillon Borri, LLC. by your side, you can feel confident that your child’s well-being—and your relationship with them—is in capable hands.
Our Child Custody Services
At The Law Office of Dillon Borri, LLC., we know that child custody matters are often the most sensitive and emotional aspects of family law. These cases involve not only your rights as a parent but also your child’s well-being and future stability. Our approach is to provide compassionate guidance while building strong legal strategies designed to protect your role in your child’s life. Whether you’re in the early stages of creating a parenting plan or facing a dispute that requires court intervention, we are here to help you understand your options and pursue an outcome that serves your child’s best interests.
Our child custody services include the following:
Allocation of Parental Responsibilities
We help parents determine how decision-making authority is shared or divided. This includes major decisions involving:
- Education
- Healthcare
- Religious upbringing
- Extracurricular activities
Whether you’re seeking sole custody or joint custody, we’ll advocate for a plan that works best for your child. We understand that every family is unique, and there’s no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to parenting arrangements. That’s why we take the time to understand your priorities and develop a strategy that reflects your child’s best interests and your role in their life. If parents cannot agree on a plan, the court may decide based on various factors, including the child’s needs and the ability of each parent to cooperate. Our firm is prepared to guide you through both negotiation and litigation to achieve a fair and workable outcome.
Parenting Time (Visitation Schedules)
Illinois law promotes frequent, ongoing contact between children and both parents—when it’s safe and appropriate. We help draft and enforce parenting plans that are:
- Age-appropriate
- Clearly structured
- Flexible to life’s changes
If your co-parent refuses to follow the schedule or denies access, we’ll pursue court enforcement or modification. We also assist clients in modifying parenting time schedules when circumstances change, such as a new job, relocation, or evolving needs of the child. Our goal is to ensure your parenting plan remains practical, fair, and in the best interests of your child. Whether through negotiation or court action, we advocate for consistent, meaningful time between you and your child. At The Law Office of Dillon Borri, LLC., we’re committed to protecting your parental rights and helping your family thrive post-divorce.
Emergency Custody & Protective Orders
When your child’s safety is at risk due to abuse, neglect, or substance abuse, we act fast to obtain emergency relief. This may include:
- Emergency allocation of parenting time
- Temporary protective orders
- Supervised visitation arrangements
We also defend parents wrongfully accused of misconduct and fight for their rights to maintain contact with their children. These situations are urgent and emotionally charged, which is why we prioritize swift, strategic legal action to protect your family. Our team works closely with you to gather evidence, present your case clearly, and ensure the court understands the full context. Whether you’re seeking protection or defending against false claims, we provide strong, compassionate representation during these critical moments. Your child’s safety and your parental rights are always our top concern.
Parental Relocation & Long-Distance Parenting
Moving out of town or out of state? Illinois law requires court approval for most relocations that impact parenting time. We handle:
- Relocation petitions
- Objections to relocation
- Modifying parenting plans after relocation
Whether you are the relocating parent or the one staying behind, we’ll help protect your relationship with your child. Relocation cases can be complex, as the court carefully considers how the move will affect the child’s stability and relationship with both parents. We work to present compelling evidence that supports your position, emphasizing the child’s best interests. Our team also assists in crafting modified parenting plans that accommodate long-distance parenting, ensuring consistent communication and meaningful involvement despite the distance. With our guidance, you can navigate these changes confidently and maintain a strong parental bond.
The Legal Standard: Best Interests of the Child
In all child custody cases, Illinois courts focus on the best interests of the child. This includes:
- The wishes of each parent and child
- The child’s needs and adjustment to home, school, and community
- The mental and physical health of everyone involved
- The ability of parents to cooperate and make joint decisions
- Any history of violence or abuse
We prepare every case with compelling evidence and testimony to support a custody plan that puts your child first.
Post-Decree Custody Modifications
Life changes. Jobs change. Children grow. If your parenting plan no longer reflects your reality, we help you request a modification of:
- Parenting time schedules
- Decision-making responsibilities
- Relocation orders
We also represent parents seeking to oppose a proposed modification when it threatens the stability or well-being of their child.
Enforcement of Child Custody Orders
If your ex violates a custody or visitation order, you have legal options. We can help you file a petition for enforcement, seek court sanctions, or request a modification to prevent further issues. Your parental rights should never be ignored. Our firm takes violations of custody and visitation orders seriously, as they can disrupt your child’s routine and emotional well-being. We work diligently to document breaches and present a strong case to the court, ensuring that consequences are enforced to protect your rights. If ongoing conflicts make the current arrangement unworkable, we can help you seek a modification that better fits your family’s needs. Throughout the process, we remain focused on maintaining stability for your child while holding all parties accountable. With The Law Office of Dillon Borri, LLC., you won’t have to face these challenges alone.
Local Experience Matters in Illinois Custody Cases
At The Law Office of Dillon Borri, LLC., we understand the nuances of family courts in Collinsville, Edwardsville, Maryville, Glen Carbon, Belleville, O’Fallon, and surrounding areas. By tailoring each custody case to the specific court rules and judicial preferences in Madison and St. Clair Counties, we provide our clients with a strategic advantage.
Frequently Asked Questions About Child Custody in Illinois
What’s the difference between custody and parenting time?
Illinois replaced the term “custody” with “allocation of parental responsibilities” and “parenting time” to better reflect how decisions and time with children are shared.
Can we decide on custody without going to court?
Yes. If parents agree, we can draft a parenting plan for court approval. This is often less stressful and more cost-effective than litigation.
Can grandparents or non-parents get custody?
In certain cases, yes. Illinois law allows grandparents, stepparents, or other relatives to petition for visitation or custody under specific conditions.
What if my child doesn’t want to visit the other parent?
The court may consider a child’s preference—especially if they’re older—but both parents are typically required to follow the agreed-upon parenting schedule unless modified by court order.
What factors does the court consider when deciding child custody?
The court evaluates the best interests of the child, including the child’s relationship with each parent, the parents’ ability to provide care, the child’s needs, and sometimes the child’s preferences depending on their age and maturity.
Can custody orders be changed after they are established?
Yes, custody orders can be modified if there is a significant change in circumstances, such as a parent relocating, changes in the child’s needs, or concerns about the child’s safety or well-being.
What is the difference between legal custody and physical custody?
Legal custody refers to the right to make major decisions about the child’s life, such as education and healthcare, while physical custody pertains to where the child lives and the day-to-day care they receive. Parents can share legal custody even if physical custody is primarily with one parent.
Speak with a Collinsville Child Custody Attorney Today
Your relationship with your child is too important to leave to chance. Whether you’re beginning the custody process, modifying an existing order, or facing an emergency, The Law Office of Dillon Borri, LLC. is here to fight for your parental rights. Our experienced attorneys understand the emotional and legal complexities involved in custody matters and provide personalized support every step of the way. We work tirelessly to ensure that your voice is heard and that the custody arrangement reflects the best interests of your child. By choosing The Law Office of Dillon Borri, LLC., you gain a dedicated advocate committed to preserving your bond and securing a stable, nurturing environment for your family. Let us help you protect what matters most.
Call 618.213.2312 now for a free, confidential consultation or complete our secure contact form. We offer evening and weekend appointments by request.