If you are a father who is facing a child custody case, you may feel like the deck is stacked against you and that the court universally prioritizes mothers over fathers. While your position is understandable, this is not the court’s position on the matter, and diligently advocating for your parental rights is always well-advised. When it comes to protecting your rights as a parent, the most important step you can take is working closely with an experienced dads’ rights divorce attorney in Chicago from the outset.
Illinois courts are bound by the best interests of the children involved in child custody cases, and the prevailing wisdom is that children fare better when both parents continue to have a strong presence in their lives. As such, fathers – in theory – carry as much weight as mothers, but as a father, you might have to pour more effort into ensuring that your rights as a parent are fully upheld. While courts’ views have changed since the time when mothers were far more likely to become the primary custodial parents and fathers were regularly relegated to every other weekend with their kids, you may need to demonstrate to the court that you are up to the task of filling a more significant role.
When making decisions related to child custody, Illinois courts turn to specific factors that are deemed to represent the best interests of the children involved. Some of these factors tend to favor the mother in terms of traditional parental roles, but as societal norms continue to push the boundaries of these traditional roles, courts are doing their best to keep up. Consider some of the following best interest factors:
In order to maximize your rights as a parent and the time you’re able to spend with your children, it’s important to highlight your commitment to consistent involvement in your children’s lives and to override any preconceived notions about your role as a father, which a dedicated dads’ rights divorce attorney can help you with.
You may feel like you’re in a one-down position when it comes to advocating for your rights as a father in relation to parenting time and parental responsibilities. The focused dads’ rights divorce attorneys at WARD FAMILY LAW in Chicago, however, have a wealth of experience helping fathers like you prevail with terms that uphold their rights and allow them to continue playing a primary role in their children’s lives. Learn more about what we can do to help you by contacting us today.
Our dedicated team of lawyers, paralegals, and staff provides reliable guidance and support
every step of the way.
Fill out the form below to schedule a consultation.