Illinois · IL
A plain-English reference to Illinois custody terminology, joint custody, parenting time, relocation, child preferences, and order changes.
750 ILCS 5/602.5 and 5/602.7 (decision-making and parenting time). In Illinois, courts generally describe the schedule as a parenting plan. The court's decision is based on the child's best interests, not simply a parent's preferred percentage of time.
No presumption; the statute allocates 'significant decision-making' and parenting time separately.
Considered based on maturity and ability to express reasoned independent preferences.
750 ILCS 5/609.2 requires 60 days' written notice; distance triggers are 25 miles (Chicago collar counties) or 50 miles elsewhere.
No modification within two years absent serious endangerment; otherwise a substantial change is required.
Under the UCCJEA the child generally must have lived in the state for the 6 months before filing (or since birth, if younger). Illinois abolished the terms 'custody' and 'visitation' in 2016 — use 'parental responsibilities' and 'parenting time.'
Put regular time, holidays, exchanges, communication, and dispute steps in one written plan. Then keep the actual schedule and handoffs organized as circumstances change.
Illinois applies the statute or rule summarized above and decides parenting time by the child's best interests. Read the official court resource before filing.
750 ILCS 5/609.2 requires 60 days' written notice; distance triggers are 25 miles (Chicago collar counties) or 50 miles elsewhere.
No modification within two years absent serious endangerment; otherwise a substantial change is required.
Compare the rule with your written plan, schedule, and records before you file or negotiate.
Filing venue, required classes, and the terminology each state's courts use.
2-2-3, 2-2-5-5, week-on/week-off, and every other common rotation.
Count overnights across a full cycle the way state worksheets do.
One-click evidence packets for your attorney or a hearing — unlimited and free.
Applies your state's own guideline model to your numbers.
Terminology, parent-education requirements, and filing venue are taken from each state's court self-help materials and statutes. Requirements change — confirm with the court where you file.
CustodyTrac publishes educational information, not legal advice. Custody and support outcomes depend on facts a calculator cannot see — confirm anything that matters with a family law attorney in your state.