When parents divorce or separate in Illinois, they usually share parental rights and responsibilities. It has become standard practice for judges to grant each parent a certain amount of time with the children and a share of decision-making authority.
Parents have to cooperate with one another by regularly exchanging custody. While they have the authority to make parenting decisions during their own time with the children, they usually have to discuss major decisions with one another. In many cases, both parents agree on what medical care the children should receive, what school they attend or what religion they observe.
When parents don’t agree on important issues, they may end up embroiled in a contentious dispute. How can parents who have shared parental rights and responsibilities resolve issues related to parenting disagreements?
Parents may need to discuss the decision at length
Some parents have a knee-jerk reaction to any change proposed by their co-parent. Frustration about their prior relationship makes them want to oppose any proposal suggested by a co-parent. Eventually, if both parents present their perspectives to each other and spend some time considering the matter, they may be able to compromise and reach an agreement about what is in the best interests of the children.
That should generally be the most important consideration. Unfortunately, parents may disagree about what is best for their children or may not be able to set aside their emotional reactions. In such circumstances, the matter may need to go back to family court.
Family law judges in Illinois have the authority to resolve parenting disputes. They can rule on a particular decision by determining what they believe is in the best interests of the children. If parental disputes are common or likely to continue, the judge may also consider updating the allocation of parental rights and responsibilities. They might choose to give one parent more decision-making authority to prevent conflict in the future.
The fastest solutions for co-parenting disputes usually come directly from the parents. In cases where they cannot resolve their disagreements, they may need to prepare for family court litigation. Developing a strategy that focuses on the best interests of the children may improve a parent’s chances of securing their preferred outcome in a decision-making conflict.
