Pro Legal Care LLC

Your new path forward.

Illinois and Wisconsin

(815) 200-8802

Custody Articles written by Attorney Zach Townsend

The Pro Legal Care LLC custody archives contain articles on topics such as:

  • Religious decision-making
  • Educational decision-making
  • Extracurricular decision-making
  • Medical decision-making
  • Guardian ad Litem appointments
  • Emergency custody orders
  • Relocation

For more information and to schedule a consultation with Attorney Zach Townsend to discuss your custody case, please call or text today at (815) 200-8802.  Attorney Townsend practices custody law in the following counties:

  • Winnebago County, Illinois
  • Stephenson County, Illinois
  • Boone County, Illinois
  • Ogle County, Illinois
  • Lee County, Illinois
  • Carroll County, Illinois
  • Jo Daviess County, Illinois
  • Green County, Wisconsin
  • Rock County, Wisconsin

Dealing With a Vexatious Litigant in Family Court

A vexatious litigant uses litigation to harass another person, such as by habitually filing meritless lawsuits or false motions to intimidate or delay. Identifying abusers that cause abuse through the court system or vexation litigation can be difficult, but learning about the ways to legally deal with this sort of person will help you understand the necessary legal steps to … [Read more...] about Dealing With a Vexatious Litigant in Family Court

Right of First Refusal in Illinois Custody Cases

In your parenting plan or child custody agreement, the well-being of the child should always be the top priority. Many Illinois Courts operate on the assumption that a time between a child and parent is generally preferred over time between a child and non-parent. One tool used to address this concern is the "Right of First Refusal." This legal concept plays a crucial role when … [Read more...] about Right of First Refusal in Illinois Custody Cases

Is a Step Parent a Legal Guardian?

When people in blended families start asking what rights a stepparent has over their step children, one question often comes up: is a step parent a legal guardian? The answer is clear - no, they are not automatically granted the legal status of a guardian when they get married. Only a child's parent or a custodial parent has legal authority over the child. Without legal … [Read more...] about Is a Step Parent a Legal Guardian?

Can a Stepparent Really Get Custody After a Divorce?

As blended families become more common, it comes as no surprise that stepparents develop strong bonds with their stepkids. But when those relationships get tested by divorce or separation, can a stepparent get custody? The short answer is "it depends" and the even shorter answer is "no" (which may be the most likely answer) but getting to "yes" is not impossible - the whole … [Read more...] about Can a Stepparent Really Get Custody After a Divorce?

Is Emotional Abuse Domestic Violence?

Is emotional abuse considered domestic violence? Yes, emotional abuse is a form of domestic violence. It involves patterns of behavior that aim to influence, manipulate, and undermine the victim’s sense of self-worth and to engage in coercion to control of the victim. Emotional abuse is a form of domestic violence because physical violence is not necessary for domestic violence … [Read more...] about Is Emotional Abuse Domestic Violence?

What Not to Say to a Guardian ad Litem in Child Custody Cases

A child custody case can be a complex and emotional journey for parents. One of the key players in this process is the Guardian ad Litem (GAL), a court-appointed individual responsible for representing the best interests of the child. Due to the influence of the GAL on the outcome of the case, knowing how to communicate effectively with a GAL is vital. Our goal is to guide you … [Read more...] about What Not to Say to a Guardian ad Litem in Child Custody Cases

GAL Home Visit Checklist: Prepare for Guardian ad Litem Success

A child custody case can be an overwhelming experience, especially when a Guardian ad Litem (GAL) becomes involved. Ensuring the well-being and safety of the child is the top priority of the Court and of the GAL, and it’s crucial to understand the GAL’s role and how to prepare for their home visit. Are you ready to confidently get through this process and create a positive … [Read more...] about GAL Home Visit Checklist: Prepare for Guardian ad Litem Success