Joint Parenting Agreement Attorneys

Joint Parenting Agreement Legal Representation

When a divorce involves a child or children, custody arrangements must be made either by court-approved settlement or by a judgment. In Illinois, joint custody is generally the preferred custody arrangement so long as both parents are deemed fit. Joint custody means that both parents have rights and responsibilities for caring for the child(ren).

At the Illinois divorce law firm of Kezy & Associates, we assist clients in negotiating, drafting, enforcing, and modifying joint parenting agreements. Our family law attorneys strongly advocate for our clients’ wishes as well as the best interests of the children involved.

Negotiating Joint Parenting Agreements in Illinois

If you are getting a divorce or legal separation and you have children with your spouse, you will likely need a joint parenting agreement. A Joint Parenting Agreement (JPA) is used to clarify the rights and responsibilities of both parents and outlines the mechanics of the co-parenting relationship. The more detailed a JPA is, the less room there is for misunderstandings that can lead to unnecessary contentiousness. Many parenting issues can be addressed in a joint parenting agreement, including:

• Living arrangements for the child(ren);
• Visitation schedule and location;
• How the child(ren) will be transferred from parent to parent;
• Who will drive to and from activities;
• Rules for electronic communication (i.e. phone, text messaging, email, etc.);
• How parenting disagreements will be negotiated;
• How decisions about the health and welfare of the child(ren) will be made;
• If/when the child(ren) will be introduced to a parent’s romantic date;
• And many more issues.

Even parents who have an amicable relationship with one another can benefit from carefully detailing how they would like to co-parent in a joint parenting agreement. When both parties have a clear understanding of what is expected, disputes are less likely to occur and a positive parenting relationship can be preserved, which benefits everyone.

From time to time, a joint parenting agreement may need to be revisited. As children get older, their needs and desires may change. It is important to be open to making the necessary adjustments to a joint parenting agreement as time passes. Our family law attorneys can assist you in making the necessary modification to existing JPAs.

For more information about Joint Parenting Agreements or to discuss your divorce and child custody and visitation arrangements with an experienced family law attorney, contact us to schedule a free consultation. We will explain your options and answer any questions you may have.