Chicago Divorce Lawyer Russell Knight Explains The Role of Stepparents in a Divorce

Chicago divorce lawyer Rusell Knight releases a new article (https://rdklegal.com/stepparents-and-divorce-in-illinois/) that discusses the role of stepparents in an Illinois divorce. The lawyer mentions that divorce may be the end of a marriage, but it can also be a new beginning for someone. New relationships can blossom and this can mean that there will be a stepparent situation that the family will have to deal with.

“The Illinois Marriage and Dissolution of Marriage Act define the term “stepparent” explicitly. So, to be a true stepparent in the eyes of an Illinois court that person must have been married to the actual parent. In Illinois, stepparents are the spouses of parents,” says the Chicago divorce lawyer.

The lawyer mentions that a stepparent's relationship with a child can sometimes be difficult. While everyone wants what is best for their children, stepparents may be less concerned about the welfare of the children. Illinois law places all its trust in the parent who is actually responsible. The child can also be allowed to spend time with their stepparent.

Attorney Russell Knight adds that the stepparent can be present if the parent exercises parenting time except when a paramour clause is present. A paramour clause is a provision that allows a parent to prohibit a child from being contacted by a stepparent. This usually states that one parent won't allow the other to introduce a member of the opposite sex to their child until enough time in the relationship has passed.

Attorney Knight points out that the parent who is not able to be present during the parent's parenting times with their minor children cannot leave them with a stepparent. If the parent must leave the child's home, the other parent should be notified.

According to the divorce attorney, “Many people who get divorced, get divorced again. Divorce stepparents have understandable attachments to their stepchildren, but very little right to those stepchildren. However, the United States Supreme Court has declared that the right of a parent to make decisions for their children is a fundamental right under the United States Constitution.”

Lastly, attorney Knight emphasizes the importance of having a skilled lawyer when it comes to divorce matters such as child custody. Having a skilled lawyer may be able to help the parent or client understand their rights and responsibilities in the case.

About The Law Office of Russell Knight

The Law Office of Russell D. Knight was established in 2009 by the divorce attorney Russell D. Knight. The lawyer’s love for family law is demonstrated by the numerous articles personally written by the lawyer. Russell is a licensed lawyer throughout Florida and Illinois. The attorney has a legal practice in both states and employs an entire staff of paralegals and attorneys in the two states of Chicago, Illinois, and Naples, Florida. Contact them today at (773) 334-6311.

Law Office of Russell D. Knight

1165 N Clark St # 700, Chicago, IL 60610, United States

(773) 334-6311