Under any circumstances, raising a teenager is a challenge and parents may encounter significant struggles when trying to juggle child custody and visitation issues after a divorce. Not only must you address typical teen drama, but you will also need to coordinate with each other on the allocation of parental responsibilities and parenting time.
During divorce proceedings, you will go over such issues in connection with the Illinois statute on parenting plans. The problem is that, while the law includes details on the legal requirements and court proceedings, it provides little guidance on how to implement a parenting plan when you have a teenager.
As such, you could probably use a few tips on how to develop a parenting plan that works for your child at a very exceptional age in their life. It is important to count on a child custody attorney in Chicago for legal help, but some recommendations may steer you in the right direction.
Get Input from Your Teen
When your child is mature and responsible enough to make informed choices, parents should consider their wishes. In no way are you required to meet impractical demands, but there are valuable lessons to learn from your teen when you welcome insights and in the right case encourage participation in the conversation.
Consider a Flexible Schedule
Inflexible schedules such as alternating weekends and set weeknights may not work for teens who are busy with school, extracurricular activities, and active social lives. Instead, parents might consider flexible arrangements, which enables both to spend meaningful time with the child.
Maintain a United Front
While parents may not get along on a personal level, it is essential you join forces when it comes to doing what is best for your child. Teens can be manipulative regarding details of the parenting plan, pitting parents against each other to get their own way. Present yourselves as a united front, and make sure your child knows you make decisions as a parental team.
Hold Each Other Accountable
Like maintaining a united front, part of being a team means making sure each parent is upholding their end regarding parenting plan responsibilities. All teens need age-appropriate rules, such as a curfew. When you establish these rules and a schedule in the parenting plan, stick to it, and hold the other parent accountable.
Keep a Journal
If you start to sense the current plan is not working, track specific instances and notes in your parenting journal. You will have the details you need to discuss changes with a co-parent and for purposes of any court action.
Trust Your Family’s Interests to a Child Custody Attorney in Chicago
These tips should help you navigate disputes regarding your teenager and parenting plans, but you should retain legal representation for help with the details. To set up a consultation with a child custody attorney in Chicago, IL, please contact Michael C. Craven at (312) 621-5234 or visit our website.
