The resources for co parenting on this page are specifically related to the family laws and resrouces for coparenting in Illinois.
Since 2016, Illinois law no longer uses the term “child custody.” Nor is “visitation” a term in Illinois divorce law. The changes to Illinois law have the goal to avoid battles of which parent will be the named as the primary-residential parent. In short, where the term “visitation” had been used staring in 2016, the law now uses the terms “parenting time.” And where “custody” had been used, Illinois law now uses the term “parental responsibility.”
Illinois Family Law
These web pages provide general information about family law in Illinois. They have information for people considering changes in their family relationships such as separation and divorce, and may be of interest to people thinking of marrying or living with someone in a marriage-like relationship.
Divorcing parents in Illinois are required to take a parenting class. The parenting class must be at least 4 hours long and can be taken online. Contact your local court clerk to learn more. Be sure to save the certificate of completion after you take the class.
What is the Illinois Parental Responsibility Law? (Nolo Law)
Parental Responsibility Law (Illinois General Assembly)
Starting a case to get parental responsibilities or custody in Illinois.
Illinois Court Parenting Plan: This form is approved by the Illinois Supreme Court
Illinois Parenting Law Statutes – Rights and Remedies: Family
Illinois Marriage and Dissolution of Marriage Act
Illinois Co Parenting Publications
Parenting Plan for Parental Responsibilities: A parenting plan is a document that says who will make decisions for a child and how those decisions will be made. This often happens in a parental responsibilities case. This used to be called a “custody” case, but this term is no longer used in Illinois.
Illinois Legal Aid – Child Custody: The term “custody” is no longer used in the law. It is now called “parental responsibilities.” This includes parenting time (formerly “visitation”) and decision-making power. Our resources explain these issues.
Illinois Bar Journal: Articles on Family Law
Lake County Illinois Family Courts
Divorced Parents of College Students
Information For Divorcing Parents in Illinois
Co Parenting Support Resources
