3 Benefits for Children Under New Illinois Domestic Relations Laws

If you’ve been reading our blog for awhile, you already know that there were major changes to the Illinois Marriage and Dissolution of Marriage Act (IMDMA) beginning January 1, 2016. Not only have major terms, such as child custody, changed in both name and meaning, but there are distinct benefits that have resulted from this seemingly minor changes as well.

Most importantly, many of the benefits gained from these new laws focus on children. And, with children’s’ interests as the focal point of many divorces, this seems to suggest the new law has accomplished what it was meant to accomplish.

1. Lessens Contention Between Parents

In custody battles and other disagreements that arise as part of divorce, many parents lose sight of their children’s best interests to get the upper hand on their soon-to-be former spouse. Unfortunately, this made the entire divorce process under the old IMDMA hard on children as custody and visitation were often contested.

Fast forward to January 1, 2016 and this is no longer a problem. The change in terms from “child custody” to “parental responsibilities” and “visitation” to “parenting time” makes the entire process less contentious and fosters cooperation over fighting.

As you can imagine, this makes the entire divorce process easier for children.

2. Helps Parents Work Together

Child-related issues in divorce are extremely contentious. Both parents want to be involved in and have a say in how their children are raised and their day-to-day lives.

In the past, many fathers were left out of this because most children lived with their mothers. Now, with parenting time more equally divided, both parents can stay involved in their children’s lives without feeling as if they’re missing out on anything due to the divorce. Moreover, children don’t have to feel burdened by the consistent fighting between former spouses that plagued life following many divorces in the past.

3. Gives Both Parents a Say for the Benefit of the Children

In most divorces, especially after the new IMDMA was adopted, both parents have a say in how their children are raised, where they go to school, which extracurricular activities they can take part in, and more. Not only is this beneficial for parents, but it’s beneficial for children who need guidance as they grow up rather than parents who are making decisions simply to “hurt” one another.

Parents can co-parent and make joint decisions on everything from education to religion, extracurricular activities, healthcare, and more.

Contact Lawrence R. Surinak Ltd. for Guidance on the New IMDMA and Your Divorce

If you’ve been considering divorce but haven’t proceeded because you were worried about your children, there’s no need to any longer. With the new IMDMA and the guidance of a Naperville divorce attorney like Lawrence R. Surinak Ltd., you can feel confident knowing that your children will be protected throughout the process and well after.

Set up your free 30-minute consultation by contacting us at 630-470-9990 or filling in our simple online form. We look forward to speaking with you and offering our over 35 years of experience to your benefit!