On July 9, 2025, Illinois family law underwent a significant update with changes to child support guidelines and paternity rights. The new legislation aims to prioritize the well-being of children and ensure fair treatment of parents in family law matters.One of the key changes in the update is the implementation of a new formula for calculating child support. The updated guidelines take into account factors such as the income of both parents, the number of children involved, and the time each parent spends with the children. This new formula aims to provide a more equitable distribution of financial support for children, taking into account the unique circumstances of each family.Additionally, the update to family law in Illinois includes changes to paternity rights. The new legislation ensures that fathers have a more equal footing in establishing paternity and seeking custody or visitation rights. This includes provisions for genetic testing to establish paternity, as well as clearer guidelines for fathers seeking custody or visitation rights.These changes come as a response to feedback from parents and family law advocates, who have long called for more transparent and equitable guidelines in matters of child support and paternity. The updates aim to streamline the legal process for parents seeking to establish or modify child support arrangements and paternity rights, ultimately aiming to create a more just and fair system for families in Illinois.The Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services has been working closely with family law professionals and stakeholders to implement these changes smoothly and efficiently. The department has also launched a public awareness campaign to inform parents of the updated guidelines and their rights under the new legislation.Overall, the update to Illinois family law represents a positive step forward in ensuring that the best interests of children are at the forefront of family law proceedings. By prioritizing fairness and equity, the new legislation aims to create a more supportive and nurturing environment for families in the state.