Child Custody Attorney in Cook County

Protect the Best Interests of Your Child: 847-278-2851!

Child custody is one of the most important issues in your divorce. Deciding where your child will live, or which parent will make important decisions about health care and education, brings lasting changes to your entire family.

That’s why you need the guidance of an experienced child custody attorney in Cook County. The Law Firm of Caryl Jacobs Gabe, Ltd. provides local representation, convenient appointments, and several payment options for families throughout the area. With our team on your side, you can confidently move forward.

In Cook County, our attorneys address both legal and physical custody issues, ensuring every key detail has been considered. Whether your case involves parenting schedules, concerns about parental decision-making, or other complex matters, we create solutions that match your family’s needs. We stay current on changes to Illinois family law that impact parenting time and parental rights.

At our firm, we offer a high standard of legal service, including:

• Years of trial experience
• Flexible appointment availability
• Knowledge of local family courts and judges
• Personalized and accessible services
• Unique solutions for each family
• We answer calls 24/7

Contact our firm today at (847) 278-2851 to speak with our child custody lawyer in Cook County.

How Is Child Custody Determined in Illinois?

Family law judges in Illinois prefer when parents work together, but joint custody is not always granted. The court’s top priority is your child’s safety and best interests. Judges often maintain the child’s current way of life when possible.

In Cook County, local judges consider each family’s unique situation when determining a custody arrangement. Courts review detailed parenting plans, and judges encourage parents to agree on schedules and responsibilities whenever possible. When parents cannot agree, hearings are held at the Richard J. Daley Center in Chicago or one of Cook County’s branch courts. Due to the high number of family law cases in Cook County, mediation is commonly required before a judge will rule on contested custody matters. Our understanding of these procedures helps guide clients through every step.

A judge considers many factors when deciding on custody, including:

• The criminal history of both parents, including allegations of domestic violence
• Each parent’s willingness to support the child’s relationship with the other parent
• The parents’ mental and physical health
• The child’s wishes, if they can express a reasoned preference
• The stability and safety of each home
• If a parent plans to remarry or move in with a new partner

Types of Custody & Parenting Time in Cook County

Illinois law divides custody into legal custody, which covers decision-making for the child, and physical custody, which determines where the child lives. Judges now use the terms “allocation of parental responsibilities” for legal custody and “parenting time” for physical custody. In Cook County, the court looks for arrangements that prioritize the child's well-being, safety, and relationship with both parents unless doing so would present a risk to the child. A judge may split decision-making responsibilities for education, healthcare, and activities between parents if it serves the child’s best interests.

During a custody case, parents often need to prepare a parenting plan for the court. This plan outlines how they will share responsibilities, allocate holidays, and make decisions regarding the child's life. If parents cannot agree on a plan, Cook County courts typically refer them to mediation before proceeding to a hearing. The court values plans that promote stability for children, especially when considering school attendance and daily routines. Our approach supports families in building plans that meet their needs and satisfy local court requirements.

What to Expect During a Child Custody Case in Cook County

When a custody case begins, parents file paperwork with the Cook County Clerk’s Office. Most cases go before judges at the Richard J. Daley Center, while some are assigned to branch courts depending on where the parties live. Many cases start with temporary hearings that set short-term arrangements for the child until a final order is made. These hearings address the child’s daily care and stability during the legal process.

Cook County courts encourage parents to settle issues whenever possible. To support this, they often refer families to mediation offered through court resources. If parents cannot find a resolution, judges listen to both sides and may ask for a child custody evaluation to guide their ruling. The court remains focused on what serves the child best, regularly holding status hearings to track progress and address concerns. Working with a child custody attorney in Cook County who knows the legal process can help you navigate each step with greater confidence.

FAQs

How long does a child custody case take in Cook County?

The time frame varies based on how complex the case is, whether both parents agree, and court scheduling. Cases with agreement between parents may end in a few months, while contested matters often take longer because of investigations or multiple hearings.

Do Cook County courts require parents to attend mediation?

Yes, Cook County courts often require mediation if parents cannot resolve parenting time or decision-making issues. Mediation gives families a chance to compromise before the judge decides.

Can a custody or parenting order be changed after it is final?

A judge can change a custody or parenting order if there is a significant shift in circumstances. Cook County courts review requests for changes to ensure any new order continues to serve the best interests of the child.

Providing the Personal Attention You Deserve

Whether you are going through a divorce, or if your situation has changed and you need to modify your custody agreement, the Law Firm of Caryl Jacobs Gabe, Ltd. may be able to help. We focus on providing legal services tailored to your family’s needs. Our child custody lawyers offer practical solutions for complex and emotionally charged matters, allowing you to focus on your child.

Custody arrangements sometimes need to change as children grow or family circumstances shift. Our attorneys handle original custody cases and modifications with care and attention to detail. If you want to modify parenting time in Cook County, we explain the steps required by local courts and clarify what factors may influence a judge’s consideration. We also help parents who share parenting responsibilities across different parts of the region, supporting arrangements that keep children connected to both parents whenever possible.

To retain the legal services of our experienced child custody lawyer, fill out an online free case evaluation form today.