Mokena, IL Fathers' Rights Lawyer

Attorneys Protecting Parental Rights During Divorce in Orland Park and New Lenox

The breakdown of a marriage can be incredibly stressful even in the best of situations, and it can be even more difficult if there is a large amount of conflict. Parents who are in the midst of a divorce may be concerned about their rights, their ability to support their family, and how their children will be affected. Fathers can feel especially overwhelmed with the avalanche of legal and financial issues they must address, and they may worry about their ability to maintain a close relationship with their children. In these cases, representation by a skilled attorney is essential to ensure that parents' and children's rights are protected.

At Wakenight & Associates, P.C., our family law attorneys have over 95 years of combined legal experience, and we understand how to protect parental rights in divorce cases. If you believe your rights as a father are at risk, we will advocate for your children's best interests and help you reach a positive resolution to your divorce.

Fathers' Rights During Divorce

Many fathers believe they are at a disadvantage when it comes to child-related issues in their divorce case, since mothers are often perceived as the primary caregivers for children. However, parents are treated equally under the law, and the decisions made are meant to protect children's best interests.

Issues that can affect a father's rights and finances during divorce include:

• Child custody - Decisions about the allocation of parental responsibility and parenting time will take into account a father's history of participation in raising their children and performing caretaking duties. Fathers who are closely involved in their children's lives should be able to continue to maintain that close relationship after their divorce. Depending on the children's needs and the parents' ability to work together, parents may be able to share equal or near-equal amounts of parenting time.
• Child support - Under Illinois law, both parents are expected to support their children financially, and child support obligations are based on parents' combined income. Depending on the amount they earn and their amount of parenting time, fathers may pay or receive child support. Both parents may also be required to contribute to child-related expenses such as child care, school supplies, health insurance premiums, and college expenses.
• Spousal maintenance - While men have historically been seen as the breadwinners in their families, there are many situations in which women earn a higher income. In these cases, a father may be able to receive financial support from their former partner that will help them maintain their standard of living.

Even in an amicable divorce, fathers may struggle to understand their rights and worry about their relationship with their children. Divorces involving large amounts of conflict can be even more stressful, and in these cases, fathers should consult with an attorney to determine how to address issues such as mental health and substance abuse, parental alienation, and emergency situations that threaten children's safety.

Contact a Frankfort Fathers' Rights Attorney

As a father, you will want to be there for your children, regardless of whether you are married, separated, or divorced. Our lawyers can make sure that your rights are protected and that you will have the financial resources that will allow you to meet your children's needs. To learn how we can help you address your concerns, contact us at 815-727-6144 to arrange your free consultation today. We provide representation in family law cases in Mokena, Oak Forest, Orland Park, Homer Glen, Tinley Park, New Lenox, Joliet, Orland Hills, Lockport, and Will County.