Naperville, IL Parenting Time Lawyers

Compassionate Parenting Time Attorneys Representing Clients in Naperville, Illinois

If you and your spouse are divorcing with children, you may be worried about how child custody will be divided up. The schedule for parenting time can be complicated to figure out, especially if you have conflicting work schedules or different preferences about where the child should live. To make sure you are fairly represented during the custody proceedings, reach out to a Naperville parenting time attorney.

At Fay & Farrow, we can advocate for you in contested child custody cases. Since our firm was first established in 1979, we have helped countless people in delicate family law cases, tailoring our approach to suit each client's individual needs.

What Is Parenting Time?

Parenting time refers to the schedule of days and overnights the child spends with each parent after a divorce or separation. It replaces the old term "physical custody" and focuses on the practical details of day-to-day life, such as where the child sleeps, who takes them to school, and how holidays are shared. Courts design parenting time plans around the child's best interests, considering factors such as school schedules, extracurricular activities, and each parent's ability to provide a stable environment.

In Illinois, a parenting time schedule can be crafted by the parents and submitted to the court for approval or imposed by a judge if parents cannot agree. The court will look at the child's age, developmental needs, and the relationship each parent has with the child. A thoughtfully constructed schedule can reduce conflict by setting clear expectations for pickups, drop-offs, and communication.

When parents cooperate, they often tailor the plan to fit their lives—swapping weekends, sharing summer breaks, or adjusting holiday time. If circumstances change, such as a parent relocating or a child's school hours shifting, the parenting time order can be modified to reflect new realities.

Sole and Joint Custody Arrangements

In some cases, the court awards one parent the majority—or even all—of the parenting time when the child's best interests call for a primary residence with that parent. This can happen if one parent has a more stable home environment, lives closer to the child's school, or has a work schedule better suited to daily caregiving.

A parent may also receive nearly exclusive parenting time when there are safety concerns, such as a history of domestic violence, substance abuse, or neglect. In these situations, the court may order that the non-custodial parent have only monitored visits until they can demonstrate a safe, supportive environment for the child.

Even when one parent has most of the parenting time, Illinois courts prefer to preserve a meaningful relationship with the other parent whenever possible. If the non-custodial parent addresses the issues that led to limited contact—through counseling, parenting classes, or stable housing—the schedule can be revisited and expanded. Ultimately, the goal remains to serve the child's emotional and developmental needs by ensuring a secure home base alongside continued relationships with both parents.

What if My Co-Parent Violates a Parenting Time Agreement?

If your co-parent fails to adhere to the court-approved parenting time schedule, whether by denying visits, showing up late, or refusing to return the child, you have legal options to enforce the order. The first step is often to document each violation. Note dates, times, and any communications exchanged. This record can be invaluable if you need to involve the court.

You may file a petition for rule to show cause, asking the court to hold the other parent in contempt. If the court finds a willful violation, it can impose sanctions ranging from fines and makeup parenting time to modification of the custody arrangement. In some cases, the court may order mediation or require parenting-time education classes to address underlying conflicts.

Before heading back to court, however, many parents find success by exploring informal resolutions. A compliant co-parent may respond to a simple letter from your attorney reminding them of their obligations. Our experienced attorneys can assess whether informal negotiation, mediation, or formal court action best serves your child's well-being.

Contact a Naperville, IL Parenting Time Attorney

At Fay & Farrow, we understand how disruptive custody disputes can be and will fight to protect your child's right to a stable, loving relationship with both parents. Call 630-961-0060 or contact our DuPage County, IL parenting time attorneys today to schedule a free consultation.