What Responsibilities Do Parents Have After a Divorce?

 Posted on June 16, 2025 in Divorce / Family Law

Getting a divorce is hard enough on its own. Divorcing with children adds an extra layer of complexity that must be addressed in the legal proceedings. During this turbulent time of your life, trying to figure out your rights and responsibilities can be stressful. An Illinois divorce attorney can help you look out for your best interests while also advocating for your child’s well-being.

At Loire Krajniak Law, LLC, we have years of experience handling complicated divorces, including cases involving children. Our attorney can help you negotiate for a fair parenting plan outside of court or represent you in litigation if necessary. We understand how taxing a divorce with children can be, so you can rest assured that we will do everything we can to make it easier for you. 

How Should Parenting Time Be Divided?

Parenting time, also known as physical custody, can be divided in several ways. But in every case, the allocation of parenting time should serve the child’s best interests. If you and your spouse are on civil terms, you might be able to reach an agreement without the court’s involvement. Many parents can share a joint custody agreement that involves the child living at both residences.

When deciding how to split up parenting time, multiple factors should be considered. For instance, the child’s sentimental attachments might play a large role in deciding where he or she should live. The location of a school or other important fixtures could also factor into the decision. It is uncommon, but not impossible to get sole custody rights. This is usually only reserved for cases where one parent is not fit to raise the child.

Do I Have to Pay Child Support?

The purpose of child support is to make sure the child has access to the same resources after his or her parents get a divorce. These payments can cover necessities like housing, clothing, food, utilities, and educational expenses.

One parent will typically have to pay child support after a divorce, unless there are extenuating circumstances. This responsibility usually falls to the parent who has less parenting time throughout the year. If both parents have roughly equal parenting time, it will fall to the higher-earning parent.

Can I Make Decisions for My Child?

In addition to parenting time, both parents may be entitled to decision-making responsibility for their child. These decisions might include choices about schooling, healthcare, discipline, education, and more. In a divorce, one or both parents can be entrusted with these decisions.

Much like the allocation of parenting time, decision-making responsibility must be split up according to whatever serves the child’s best interests. A judge can choose to deny a proposed parenting plan if it does not put the child’s needs first.

Contact a Geneva, IL Family Law Attorney Today

Most parents just want to do right by their children. At Loire Krajniak Law, LLC, we can help you work out a healthy solution for custody and child support in your divorce. To schedule a free consultation with our Kane County, IL divorce lawyer, call our offices at 630-448-2406.