Protecting What Matters Most

Of all the legal issues that arise in a family law case, the ones that affect the children are the most important, and often the most contentious.

At Steele Law Offices, LLC, in Glen Carbon, I handle child custody matters with great care and attention to detail because I understand what is at stake. Underneath every legal order is a real family with parent-child relationships at stake. I never forget this when serving my clients’ legal needs.

Navigating Sensitive Custody Matters

In Illinois, child custody matters are divided into two general categories:

• Parental responsibility: Commonly known as legal custody, the allocation of parental responsibility involves major decisions regarding the child’s life, including education, health care and religion.
• Parenting time: Also known as visitation, parenting time concerns where the child actually lives and spends his or her time. The law favors shared parenting time so that both parents can maintain a meaningful role in the child’s life, absent issues such as abuse or neglect.

Resolving Custody Disputes

In handling custody disputes, I work closely with my clients to help them find common ground with the other parent. While contentious disputes are common, they can often be resolved by communication and focusing on the common goal of protecting the child’s best interests.

I understand, however, that the other party is not always willing to be reasonable. While I strive to resolve child custody matters amicably whenever possible, I am always prepared for strong litigation when a client’s parental rights and their child’s well-being are at stake.

I can protect your rights in initial custody proceedings as well as in modification and enforcement issues.

Talk To An Experienced Family Law Attorney

Emotions can cloud legal matters, especially when your children are involved. I can give you a clearheaded perspective on your situation and how the law applies in your unique circumstances. For a free initial consultation with an experienced Illinois child custody lawyer, call my law office at 618-310-0844 or contact me online.