More Family Law news More news in Illinois Find Family Law lawyers in Illinois
On July 12, 2025, new legislation was passed in Illinois aimed at streamlining custody and visitation proceedings for families going through divorce or separation. The new law, known as the Family Law Simplification Act, is intended to make the process more efficient, cost-effective, and less adversarial for all parties involved.One of the key provisions of the Family Law Simplification Act is the implementation of a mandatory mediation program for all custody and visitation cases. Under this program, parents will be required to participate in mediation sessions with a neutral third party mediator before going to court to resolve any disputes over custody or visitation. The goal is to encourage parents to work together to come to an agreement that is in the best interest of their children, rather than relying on the court to make decisions for them.Additionally, the new legislation includes provisions for the creation of a standardized parenting plan template that parents can use to outline custody and visitation schedules, as well as other important decisions related to their children's upbringing. This template is designed to help reduce conflict and confusion by providing a clear and consistent framework for parents to follow.Other changes introduced by the Family Law Simplification Act include the establishment of guidelines for the use of technology in custody and visitation arrangements, such as virtual visitation and communication tools. The law also aims to address issues related to domestic violence by requiring judges to consider evidence of abuse when making custody and visitation decisions.Overall, the Family Law Simplification Act represents a significant step forward in modernizing Illinois family law and promoting a more collaborative and child-centered approach to resolving custody and visitation disputes. The new legislation is expected to benefit families across the state by promoting cooperation, reducing legal costs, and ultimately prioritizing the well-being of the children involved.