To demonstrate the unique relationship Illinois has with the children in the state, a parenting bill that just missed being passed last year will be proposed again this year with added support. The sponsors of the bill propose a law that will have family courts presuming that equal parenting and child custody is in a child's best interest unless otherwise proved. They call this the gift of both parents.
Lawmakers say that under no circumstances would custody automatically be awarded equally to both parents. Instead, the presumption will be the starting point, with any issues of significance being reviewed. These could include the mental and physical health of both parents, histories or potential domestic violence or abuse, matters about their proximity, and anything else that could jeopardize the best interests of the child.
Illinois is not alone in its quest to get the gift of both parents bill passed. Kentucky passed a similar law, and parenting groups, lawmakers, family court judges, attorneys and others agree that what is good for the neighboring state is good for Illinois. Many other states nationwide are looking at similar laws because the benefits of having both parents in their lives have been proved to benefit most children.
Anyone who is considering a divorce in Illinois and has questions about child custody issues can get answers from an experienced family law attorney. A lawyer can explain the different custody options and their respective pros and cons. This will allow a parent to make an informed decision when it comes to the best interests of his or her child.
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