Can I Modify My Parenting Plan in Illinois?

 Posted on March 19, 2025 in Child Custody / Parental Responsibilities

When parents separate or divorce, they create a parenting plan based on the circumstances at the time. However, as with anything else in life, those circumstances can change, and if they do, the parenting plan might no longer be feasible. Whether a parent remarries, undergoes a significant employment change, suffers from illness or addiction, or the child’s needs change, it can be reasonable to request a modification. To learn more about your options for modifying your parenting plan, speak with a qualified Illinois family law attorney who has helped many clients face similar challenges.

What Do Illinois Parenting Plans Include?

A parenting plan, also known as a parenting agreement, outlines how parents will divide parental responsibilities, parenting time, and decision-making authority. Illinois courts prefer allowing both parents to be involved in a child’s life but always prioritize the best interests of the child when determining or modifying these arrangements.

What Are the Grounds for Modifying a Parenting Plan?

In Illinois, there are several valid reasons for requesting a modification, including:

• Significant Change in Circumstances: For an Illinois court to agree to modify a parenting plan, there generally needs to be a substantial change in circumstances. Typical changes include remarriage, health issues, job changes, or relocation.

• Risk to the Child: If a parent believes the child’s physical, mental, or emotional well-being is at risk under the current plan, he or she can request a modification for the child’s safety.

• Agreement Between Parents: If both parents agree to change the parenting plan, they can submit a joint petition to the court.

• Minor Adjustments: The law allows for minor modifications without proving a significant change in circumstances if the change is in the child’s best interests and does not substantially alter parenting time.

How Do You Modify a Parenting Plan?

To request a modification, parents should follow these steps:

Review the Existing Order and Communicate with the Other Parent

Understanding the terms of your current parenting plan will help you determine which aspects need modification. Then you can discuss the changes you would like to implement with the other parent. Open communication might help you reach an agreement without needing extensive litigation.

File a Petition for Modification

If you and your child’s other parent cannot agree, you can file a petition with the court. The petition should explain how exactly you would like to modify the plan and why you are requesting this.

Attend a Court Hearing

In court, you and the other parent can present your respective sides of the story. You can share evidence showing why the proposed changes are in your child’s best interests. The court will consider your child’s needs, your and the other parent’s ability to cooperate, and the stability of the current arrangement.

The court will decide whether to grant the modification you requested. If it does, you and the other parent will need to comply with the updated plan. Any violations can lead to legal consequences. When seeking a modification, it is always recommended to consult with an attorney who can guide you and ensure that your petition is properly prepared and presented in a way that best represents your interests.

Schedule a Free Consultation with a Cook County, IL Parenting Plan Modification Lawyer

If you want to modify your parenting plan, speak with an experienced Chicago, IL family law attorney. The process can be complicated, but at The Law Office of George J. Skuros, we can guide you through the careful preparation required to pursue changes that reflect your and your child’s best interests. Call us at 312-884-1222 to schedule a free consultation.