At the Law Offices of Jeffery M. Leving℠, Ltd., you will work with attorneys who are deeply knowledgeable about custody law and who will walk you through each step of these complicated and emotional proceedings. In fact, founding attorney Jeffery M. Leving^® co-authored the drafting of the Illinois joint custody statute. He is a nationally recognized authority on child custody and related matters of family law such as fathers’ rights, with decades of experience litigating and negotiating the terms of custody in complex cases throughout the U.S.

Residential custody

Sometimes called “physical custody”, means that the child will primarily live with that parent, except during scheduled visits at the other parent’s house. Residential custody is usually what is meant by “custodial” or “noncustodial” parents. The parent with residential custody typically receives child support from the noncustodial parent.

Legal custody

Refers to the parental authority to make decisions on the child’s behalf, namely decisions regarding education and extracurricular activities, health care, religious upbringing and general welfare. When legal custody is shared, parents must communicate and come to consensus on important decisions.

The family courts of Illinois favor joint custody. Joint legal custody means that both parents have an equal say in the child’s upbringing and decision-making, even if the child lives primarily with one parent. Joint residential custody means that the child spends time — but not necessarily equal time — with both parents. The traditional custody and visitation model (every other weekend with Dad, plus one overnight a week) is still common, but no longer the presumption. Many fathers are awarded primary residential custody or split parenting time approximately evenly. We will advocate for what is best for your child and realistic for your circumstances.

The wishes of each of the parents
The wishes of the child (with extra weight to an older child’s preference)
The child’s interactions with each parent and others in that household
The child’s adjustment at home, in school and in the community
The health of each parent (physical and mental)
Physical violence or threat of violence experienced or witnessed by the child
Abuse of the child (physical, verbal, emotional)
Sex offender status of either parent
The propensity of each parent to foster and encourage a healthy relationship between the child and the co-parent
Whether one of the parents is in active military service

Mike

6 days ago

The Law Offices of Jeffery M. Leving does incredibly important work not only for Fathers but for the children involved as well. James Hagler’s professionalism, expertise, tenacity and support was at the highest level. Thank you James for all your help.

J (Jessica)

15 days ago

Looking for a good attorney is like shopping for a handbag. 🤔A fast fashion Coach purse or a handmade durably crafted Hermés Birkin bag? I chose the latter. Attorney Hagler is the best. 👍If you’re looking for a lawyer who is highly competent, deeply patient, and genuinely invested in guiding families through difficult transitions, he is absolutely worth the investment. Yes, this firm’s rate is on the higher end 💰— but it’s proportional to the return on investment. If you do the long term math, it’s worth every dollar. 💵 With Attorney Hagler at The Law Offices of Jeffery M. Leving, you truly get what you pay for: premium advocacy, measured judgment, and a level of professionalism that protects both your case and your peace of mind.❤️

Blake Skeep

37 days ago

I have thus far enjoyed the assurance and relief that Michael Ochoa and Julia Keszycki have given me during my use of Jeffery M Leving Law. Everyone there has been attentive to my goals and concerns, and having a case over an hour away from the main office has not created any hurdles for me or my son. I highly recommend reaching out to this law office to familiarize yourself with what your potential can be in your respective courtroom scenario.

junior salazar

37 days ago

I appreciate the people at Jeffery Levings especially Micheal Ochoa, who has represented me , for representing me in my custody battle. They show compassion and understanding and will fight for us fathers who just want to be father's. They fight for fathers rights!!

Wayne Sivels

37 days ago

Excellent services provided by my Atty's at Jeffrey Leving Ltd. I cannot thank Atty's Anthony D' Agostino and Arthur Kallow of the law offices of Jeffery Leving for saving me from an unjust situation. The State claimed I owed child support for a child who became an adult decades ago. I was facing an absolute nightmare. They suspended my driver's license and put a lien on property that I didn't even own. It was a terrible ordeal that took a massive toll on my finances and health. Anthony and Art stepped in and fought with true passion on my behalf. Thanks to their tireless efforts and willingness to go to great lengths for justice,the claimed arrearages were completely zeroed out. They literally saved me from this continuing nightmare and gave me back my life. I highly recommend D'Agostino and Kallow and the Law Offices of Jeffery M. Leving to anyone who needs aggressive, brilliant representation. They are worth every penny.

Grace S

38 days ago

Michael Ochoa is an excellent Attorney at Law. He is a true professional, compassionate and always took the time to explain things clearly. My divorce case was exceptionally complicated due to my ex-husband's mental illness. I am incredibly grateful to the Law Offices of Jeffery M. Leving, Ltd especially to Michael Ochoa for his help and support during one of the most difficult times in my life. I highly recommend Michael Ochoa to anyone going through a divorce.

Aliyah Shields

38 days ago

Michael Ochoa of Jeffery M. Levine has done and continues doing a great job on my child custody case. He works hard in detail and great with communication. Highly recommend!

Lilia Malacina

38 days ago

Top flight family law firm that will work tirelessly for the best results.

Kaleb Wright

58 days ago

I met Anthony D’Agostino today at Law Office Of Jeffery Leving for a consultation and he’s an amazing attorney passionately helping fathers obtain custody and exceptional time with their kids. Anthony is a father himself so; he understands about life situations when it comes down to father’s rights. Us real fathers in the world deserve the same as mothers we don’t get that much praise but Anthony D’Agostino is the attorney to make a difference for fathers and your voice will be heard. Kaleb W.

Marrlow Epps

73 days ago

Mr. Brain Gilbert did a good job helping me support my fatherhood rights, thanks again sir

Understanding Sole And Joint Custody

As Seen On:

Residential Custody Versus Legal Custody

Residential custody

Legal custody

Sole Custody, Joint Custody And Visitation

How Is Custody Determined?

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