The pandemic has brought new challenges. Most separated and divorced parents never envisioned having to navigate a pandemic with their former spouse. Parenting judgments (formally known in Illinois as “Allocation of Parental Responsibility Judgments”) spell out the terms for how divorced parents are to co-parent on important issues. A comprehensive Allocation of Parental Responsibility Judgment eliminates or greatly reduces confusion and conflict. Adding terms to an Allocation of Parental Responsibility Judgment about when children may return to in-person classes, private learning pods, attend social events and religious services, and resume sports and extra-curricular activities could eliminate conflict. Certain activities are deemed high risk to the health and safety of children and their family members. If parents are unable to agree on these issues they may engage a mediator to help them reach a solution or, if appropriate, request a court ruling.
Order of Protection for Domestic Violence
Unfortunately, some Chicago divorces or Chicago child custody disputes involve domestic violence. When domestic violence, or the threat of domestic violence, occurs a victim may petition the court for an order of protection. An order of protection is a court order...