circuit court of cook county child representative ... · 7/20/2016  · when parents fail to submit...

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Circuit Court of Cook County Child Representative Continuing Legal Education Seminar The New IMDMA and Your Role as Child Representative Prepare, Present and Settle Cases Jacalyn Birnbaum BIRNBAUM, HADDON, GELFMAN & ARNOUX, LLC July 20, 2016 _________________________________________________________________________________________ MOTHER FATHER Page 1 of 27 Attorney Number 12345 IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT DOMESTIC RELATIONS DIVISION IN RE. THE MARRIAGE OF ) ) MOTHER, ) ) Petitioner, ) ) and ) No. 16 D 12345 ) FATHER, ) ) Respondent. ) ALLOCATION JUDGMENT: ALLOCATION OF PARENTAL RESPONSIBILITIES AND PARENTING PLAN This cause coming on to be heard on the agreement of the parties pursuant to State of Illinois Public Act 099-0090 (“Act”), effective January 1, 2016, specifically Part VI of the Act entitled ALLOCATION OF PARENTAL RESPONSIBILITIES (750 ILCS 5/600 et seq); the Court having jurisdiction over the subject matter and the parties and being fully advised in the premises: BASED UPON THE STIPULATION OF THE PARTIES, THE COURT FINDS: A. On March 7, 2003, MOTHER (“MOTHER”) and FATHER (“FATHER”) were lawfully married in Chicago, Illinois and their marriage was duly registered in the County of Cook, State of Illinois. B. Two children were born to the parties, namely, their DAUGHTER (“DAUGHTER”), born March 25, 2005 and currently eleven years of age and SON (“SON”), born May 10, 2008 and currently eight years of age. C. The parties have reached agreement regarding the child related issues in this cause and desire that said agreement be reduced to writing in the decretal portion of this Allocation Judgment. IT IS, THEREFORE, HEREBY ORDERED, ADJUDGED AND DECREED:

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Page 1: Circuit Court of Cook County Child Representative ... · 7/20/2016  · When parents fail to submit an agreed parenting plan, each parent must file and submit a written, signed parenting

Circuit Court of Cook County Child Representative Continuing Legal Education Seminar

The New IMDMA and Your Role as Child Representative

Prepare, Present and Settle Cases

Jacalyn Birnbaum BIRNBAUM, HADDON, GELFMAN & ARNOUX, LLC

July 20, 2016 _________________________________________________________________________________________

MOTHER FATHER

Page 1 of 27

Attorney Number 12345

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS

COUNTY DEPARTMENT – DOMESTIC RELATIONS DIVISION

IN RE. THE MARRIAGE OF )

)

MOTHER, )

)

Petitioner, )

)

and ) No. 16 D 12345

)

FATHER, )

)

Respondent. )

ALLOCATION JUDGMENT:

ALLOCATION OF PARENTAL RESPONSIBILITIES

AND PARENTING PLAN

This cause coming on to be heard on the agreement of the parties pursuant to State of Illinois Public Act

099-0090 (“Act”), effective January 1, 2016, specifically Part VI of the Act entitled ALLOCATION OF PARENTAL

RESPONSIBILITIES (750 ILCS 5/600 et seq); the Court having jurisdiction over the subject matter and the parties

and being fully advised in the premises:

BASED UPON THE STIPULATION OF THE PARTIES, THE COURT FINDS:

A. On March 7, 2003, MOTHER (“MOTHER”) and FATHER (“FATHER”) were lawfully married in

Chicago, Illinois and their marriage was duly registered in the County of Cook, State of Illinois.

B. Two children were born to the parties, namely, their DAUGHTER (“DAUGHTER”), born March 25,

2005 and currently eleven years of age and SON (“SON”), born May 10, 2008 and currently eight years

of age.

C. The parties have reached agreement regarding the child related issues in this cause and desire that said

agreement be reduced to writing in the decretal portion of this Allocation Judgment.

IT IS, THEREFORE, HEREBY ORDERED, ADJUDGED AND DECREED:

Page 2: Circuit Court of Cook County Child Representative ... · 7/20/2016  · When parents fail to submit an agreed parenting plan, each parent must file and submit a written, signed parenting

Jacalyn Birnbaum

BIRNBAUM, HADDON, GELFMAN & ARNOUX, LLC

Child Rep Seminar July 20, 2016

MOTHER FATHER

Page 2 of 27

ARTICLE I

MODIFIABILITY OF THIS ALLOCATION JUDGMENT

By the terms of this Allocation Judgment and Parenting Plan, it is the intention of the parties to resolve all issues of

allocation of parental responsibilities, including allocation of parenting time. MOTHER and FATHER understand

and acknowledge the terms and provisions of Section 5/610.5 of this Act (750 5/610.5) regarding the modifiability

of this Allocation Judgment.

750 ILCS 5/610.5 (NEW) Modification (Emphasis Added)

(a) Unless by stipulation of the parties or except as provided in subsection (b) of this Section [Relocation of a

Parent] or Section 603.10 of this Act [Restriction of Parental Responsibilities], no motion to modify an order

allocating parental responsibilities may be made earlier than two (2) years after its date, unless the court

permits it to be made on the basis of affidavits that there is reason to believe the child’s present environment

may endanger seriously his or her mental, moral, or physical health or significantly impair the child’s

emotional development.

(b) A motion to modify and order allocating parental responsibilities may be made at any time by a party

who has been informed of the existence of facts requiring notice to be given under Section 609.2 of this Act.

[Relocation of a Parent]

Cross reference: A parent’s relocation constitutes a substantial change in circumstances for purposes of

Section 610.5. (750 ILCS 5/609.2)

(c) Except in a case concerning the modification of any restriction of parental responsibilities under Section

603.10), the court shall modify a parenting plan or allocation judgment when necessary to serve the child’s best

interests if the court finds, by a preponderance of the evidence, that on the basis of facts that have arisen since the

entry of the existing parenting plan or allocation judgment or were not anticipated therein, a substantial change

has occurred in the circumstances of the child or of either parent and that a modification is necessary to serve the

child’s best interests.

(d) The court shall modify a parenting plan or allocation judgment in accordance with a parental agreement,

unless it finds that the modification is not in the child’s best interests.

(e) The court may modify a parenting plan or allocation judgment without a showing of changed

circumstances, if (i) the modification is in the child’s best interests; and (ii) any of the following are proven as to

the modification:

(1) the modification reflects the actual arrangement under which the child has been receiving care,

without parental objection, for the 6 months preceding the filing of the petition for modification, provided that the

arrangement is not the result of a parent’s acquiescence resulting from circumstances that negated the parent’s

ability to give meaningful consent;

(2) the modification constitutes a minor modification in the parenting plan or allocation judgment;

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Jacalyn Birnbaum

BIRNBAUM, HADDON, GELFMAN & ARNOUX, LLC

Child Rep Seminar July 20, 2016

MOTHER FATHER

Page 3 of 27

(3) the modification is necessary to modify an agreed parenting plan or allocation judgment that the court

would not have ordered or approved under Section 602.5 0r 602.7 had the court been aware of the circumstances at

the time of the order or approval; or

(4) the parties agree to the modification

(f) Attorneys’ Fees and costs shall be assessed against a party seeking modification if the court finds that

the modification action is vexatious or constitutes harassment. If the court finds that a parent has repeatedly

filed frivolous motions for modification the court may bar the parent from filing a motion for modification

for a period of time.

ARTICLE II

ALLOCATION OF SIGNIFICANT DECISION MAKING RESPONSIBILITIES

IMPORTANT

THIS SECTION 602.10 IS FEARED BY MANY

TO BE A DRACONIAN CHANGE

Section 602.10 Parenting Plan

(a) Filing of parenting plan. All parents, within 120 days after service or filing of any petition for

allocation of parental responsibilities, must file with the court, either jointly or separately, a proposed

parenting plan. The time period for filing a parenting plan may be extended by the court for good cause

shown.

(b) No parenting plan filed. In the absence of filing of one or more parenting plans, the court must conduct an

evidentiary hearing to allocated parental responsibilities.

(c) Mediation. The court shall order mediation to assist the parents in formulating or modifying a parenting plan

or in implementing a parenting plan unless the court determines that impediments to mediation exist. Costs under

this subsection shall be allocated between the parties pursuant to the applicable statute or Supreme Court Rule.

(d) Parents’ agreement on parenting plan. The parenting plan must be in writing an signed by both parents.

The parents must submit the parenting plan to the court for approval within 120 days after service of a petition for

allocation of parental responsibilities or the filing of an appearance, except for good cause shown.

Notwithstanding the provisions above, the parents may agree upon and submit a parenting plan at any time after the

commencement of a proceeding until prior to the entry of a judgment for dissolution of marriage. If the court does

not approve the parenting plan, the court shall make express findings of the reason or reasons for its refusal to

approve the plan. The court, on its own motion, may conduct an evidentiary hearing to determine whether the

parenting plan is in the child’s best interests.

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Jacalyn Birnbaum

BIRNBAUM, HADDON, GELFMAN & ARNOUX, LLC

Child Rep Seminar July 20, 2016

MOTHER FATHER

Page 4 of 27

(e) Parents cannot agree on parenting plan. When parents fail to submit an agreed parenting plan, each parent

must file and submit a written, signed parenting plan to the court within 120 days after the filing of an appearance,

except for good cause shown. The court’s determination of parenting time should be based on the child’s best

interests. The filing of the plan may be excused if:

(1) the parties have commenced mediation for the purpose of formulating a parenting plan; or

(2) the parents have agreed in writing to extend the time for filing a proposed plan and the court has approved such

an extension; or

(3) the court orders otherwise for good cause shown.

SUGGESTED TOOL TO SOLVE THE PROBLEM:

USE SECTION 603.5: TEMPORARY ORDERS

Sec. 603.5. Temporary Orders

(a) A court may order a temporary allocation of parental responsibilities in the child’s best interests

BEFORE the entry of a final allocation judgment. Any temporary allocation shall be made in accordance with

the standards set forth in Sections 602.5 [Allocation of Parental Responsibilities: decision making] and 602.7

[Allocation of Parental Responsibilities: parenting time]:

(i) after a hearing; or

(ii) if there is no objection, on the basis of a parenting plan that, at a minimum, complies with subsection (f) of

Section 602.10 [Parenting plan contents].

Use this Section 603.5, to style an Order like this as a “TEMPORARY Allocation of Parental Responsibilities and Parenting Plan”.

Have it entered as a “Temporary” Order within the 120 days, and

THEN amend or modify it based on experience before entering it as a FINAL Allocation Judgment at the conclusion of the case.

Interesting way to neutralize tension.

Use a temporary order as a starting point: See if – and to what extent - it works so as to avoid potentially

draconian and costly alternatives.

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Jacalyn Birnbaum

BIRNBAUM, HADDON, GELFMAN & ARNOUX, LLC

Child Rep Seminar July 20, 2016

MOTHER FATHER

Page 5 of 27

A. Parenting Responsibilities

MOTHER and FATHER shall have share parenting responsibilities for DAUGHTER and SON, subject to

the specific terms, conditions, interpretations and definitions set forth in this Allocation Judgment and

Parenting Plan.

B. Responsibility for Routine Daily Decisions

The parties agree that each parent shall have principal authority and responsibility for daily and ordinary

supervision and care when a child or children is/are with that parent.

C. Responsibility for Significant Decision-Making Responsibilities

The parties agree that Significant Decisions (as defined by Section 602.5(b) of the Act) include those

related to DAUGHTER’s and SON’s Education through high school, including choice of school and

tutors; Health, including all decisions related to the medical, dental and psychological needs of the

child(ren) and to the treatments arising or resulting from those needs; Religion, subject to the parties’

agreement as set forth in the statute and Extracurricular Activities.

1. Education Through High School

The parties agree and acknowledge their intention to provide their children with the best possible

educational opportunities. The parties shall be jointly responsible for major decisions relating to

each child's secular education through high school, subject to the following terms and

conditions:

a. Choice of School(s)

1. The children shall attend public school(s) for the school district in which

MOTHER resides pursuant to the designation set forth in Article IV herein

under Section 606.10.

Section 606.10 Designation of custodian for purposes of other statutes.

750 ILCS 5/606.10

Solely for the purposes of all State and federal statutes that require a

designation or determination of custody or a custodian, a parenting plan

SHALL designate the parent who is allocated the majority of parenting time.

This designation SHALL NOT affect parents’ rights and responsibilities

under the parenting plan. For purposes of Section 10-20.12b of the School

Code only, the parent with the majority of parenting time is considered to

have legal custody. (Emphasis added)

2. The parties further acknowledge and agree that the above designation for

purposes of school registration shall not be construed in any way against or in

favor of either parent and shall be without precedential value or prejudice of

any kind in any future litigation between the parties. This provision shall be

interposed as a defense to any attempt to otherwise misconstrue the intention

of the parties in the statutory accommodation of administrative requirements.

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Jacalyn Birnbaum

BIRNBAUM, HADDON, GELFMAN & ARNOUX, LLC

Child Rep Seminar July 20, 2016

MOTHER FATHER

Page 6 of 27

3. The children shall only attend private school(s) if both parents agree as to the

choice of and allocation of responsibility for payment of expenses for any

particular private school or program.

b. Other Major Decisions

Both parents shall share responsibility for all other major decisions relating to

DAUGHTER’s and SON's education through high school.

c. Parental Involvement

Both parents agree that parental involvement in the educational process is critical to and

in DAUGHTER's and SON’s best interests; accordingly:

1. Both parents shall be entitled to duplicate originals of each child’s school

records (including but not limited to grade reports) and each parent shall

independently contact the school to obtain said duplicate originals. In the event

either child's school will not cooperate in this regard, or the children are sent

home with notes from any teacher or other school personnel related to the

children or school activities, then MOTHER shall timely provide these

materials to FATHER (i.e., within two days of her receipt of same)- except in

cases of emergency (i.e., the event to which the notice refers occurs within said

two day window).

2. Both parents shall be listed on the school's "Emergency List" and shall be

notified by the school in the event of an emergency involving either

DAUGHTER or SON.

3. The email address and address and telephone number of both parents shall be

dually listed in the school telephone directories.

4. Each of the parents shall have the equal right to confer with teachers and

counselors concerning each child's education and other activities, however,

each parent may separately schedule such conferences, subject to the

administrative procedures and policies of the school.

2. Religion

FATHER was raised in a Jewish household and MOTHER is of the Christian faith. MOTHER

and FATHER agree and acknowledge that DAUGHTER and SON will continue to be reared in

the ___________ faith. Each parent accepts the ongoing obligation to provide positive and

meaningful religious experiences for their children. The parties further agree that DAUGHTER

and SON shall be raised to understand and respect the faiths of both their parents, and that each

parent shall be expected and entitled to share his and her respective religious observances,

practices and heritages with their children.

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Jacalyn Birnbaum

BIRNBAUM, HADDON, GELFMAN & ARNOUX, LLC

Child Rep Seminar July 20, 2016

MOTHER FATHER

Page 7 of 27

Section 602.5 Allocation of parental responsibilities: decision-making. (750 ILCS 5/602.5(b)(3))

(b)(3) Religion, subject to the following provisions:

(A) The court shall allocate decision-making responsibility for the child’s religious upbringing in

accordance with any express or implied agreement between the parents.

(B) The court shall consider evidence of the parents’ past conduct as to the child’s religious upbringing in

allocating decision making responsibilities consistent with demonstrated past conduct in the absence of an

express or implied agreement between the parents.

(C) The court shall not allocate any aspect of the child’s religious upbringing if it determines that the

parents do not or did not have an express or implied agreement for such religious upbringing or that there

is insufficient evidence to demonstrate a course of conduct regarding the child’s religious upbringing that

could serve as a basis for any such order.

3. Extracurricular Activities and Lessons

MOTHER and FATHER agree that it is in the best interests of their children to be involved in

extracurricular activities, and the parties further agree that they, after considering each child’s

aptitudes and preferences, shall jointly make all Major Decisions relating to their lessons and

extracurricular activities, subject to the following terms and conditions:

a. Payment for Lessons and Extracurricular Activities

The issue of allocation of payment for DAUGHTER’s and SON’s lessons and

extracurricular activities shall be addressed in the parties' Marital Settlement

Agreement.

b. Substantial Weight and Consideration to DAUGHTER’s and SON’s Aptitudes

and Preference(s)

1. The parties specifically agree that each will give substantial weight and

consideration to DAUGHTER’s and SON’s aptitudes and expressed and

specific preferences in the selection of any and extracurricular activities,

whether individual or group or team.

2. Where possible, it is expected that DAUGHTER and SON will continue to be

enrolled in all the individual and team extracurricular activities in which each

is currently enrolled or in which each currently participates.

c. Scheduling

1. Individual Lessons and Extracurricular Activities

a. Each parent shall have the right to schedule individual lessons and

extracurricular activities and events for DAUGHTER, SON or both

during his or her own parenting time.

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Jacalyn Birnbaum

BIRNBAUM, HADDON, GELFMAN & ARNOUX, LLC

Child Rep Seminar July 20, 2016

MOTHER FATHER

Page 8 of 27

b. Each parent will contact the other and obtain the other’s approval

prior to scheduling any individual lesson or activity for

DAUGHTER or SON which - that parent has reason to believe -

might occur during the other’s parenting time; moreover, neither

parent will promise or commit DAUGHTER or SON to any such

lesson or activity until the parent whose approval is sought has, in

fact, approved.

2. Team/Group Extracurricular Activities

a. The parties agree that it is in DAUGHTER’s and SON’s best interest

not to be "overscheduled"; accordingly, unless otherwise agreed,

each child shall be enrolled and participate in no more than two (2)

concurrent TEAM/GROUP extracurricular activities/ongoing group

lessons per season, of which each parent shall be entitled to

choose one.

b. The parties agree and acknowledge that certain team/group activities

or lessons in which DAUGHTER or SON may participate are likely

to have practices, games or other scheduled sessions which may fall

during both parents' parenting time. With that understanding, each

parent will exercise his/her best efforts to have DAUGHTER and

SON promptly attend her/his/their scheduled activities.

d. Notification

1. Each parent will apprise the other – by e-mail or telefax within 48 hours of his

or her receipt of any such information - of the name(s) and telephone

number(s) of DAUGHTER’s and SON’s instructors, coaches, and so forth.

2. Thereafter, each parent shall be encouraged to independently contact the

instructor(s), coach(es) and others regarding each child’s lessons and extra-

curricular activities.

3. Both parents shall be entitled to duplicate schedules and notifications regarding

each child‘s lessons and extracurricular activities. In the event duplicates are

not available, then the parent in receipt of such schedule or notification shall

timely provide these materials to the other parent (i.e., within two (2) days of

her/his receipt of same).

4. Each parent shall familiarize himself/herself with each child’s lessons and

extra-curricular activities by discussing same directly with him or her.

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Jacalyn Birnbaum

BIRNBAUM, HADDON, GELFMAN & ARNOUX, LLC

Child Rep Seminar July 20, 2016

MOTHER FATHER

Page 9 of 27

e. Attendance/Contact with Instructors and Coaches

1. Both parents shall be welcome to attend any or all of DAUGHTER’s and

SON’s activities and lessons and to independently contact and confer with any

of her/their instructors and coaches.

2. Both parents (as well as their then significant others, current spouses and

members of extended family) shall be welcome to attend any and all practices,

games or other events relating to an extracurricular activity, however, at all

such activities, MOTHER and FATHER shall exercise their best efforts to

maximize each child’s comfort, as appropriate, by maintaining a respectful

distance between each other and each other's significant other or current

spouse.

f. Other Provisions

1. Both parents shall be listed on each activity’s “Emergency List”, if any, and

shall be notified in the event of an emergency involving DAUGHTER or

SON;

2. The email address and address and telephone number of both parents shall be

duly listed on each activity’s telephone directory, if any.

g. Summer Camp

MOTHER and FATHER agree to the following protocol regarding summer camp:

1. Unless the parties specifically agree otherwise – neither DAUGHTER nor

SON will attend more than four (4) weeks of camp in any given summer. In

determining the number of weeks the children shall attend camp, the parties

shall consider each child’s preferences, age and maturity.

2. Each parent may separately investigate the details (i.e., affiliation,

programming, location, cost, bus routes, transportation, etc.) for any summer

camp program which she or he believes may be appropriate for DAUGHTER,

SON or both.

3. The parties shall share all such information between themselves, and each shall

be encouraged to directly contact any program or camp suggested by either.

4. In the event the parties are unable to agree on terms related to summer camp,

then MOTHER shall make the final choice.

5. To assure that camp registration proceeds smoothly, all summer camp

scheduling shall be completed not later than March 1st of each year or

thirty days before the deadline for the camp’s registration, whichever is

earlier to occur.

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Jacalyn Birnbaum

BIRNBAUM, HADDON, GELFMAN & ARNOUX, LLC

Child Rep Seminar July 20, 2016

MOTHER FATHER

Page 10 of 27

6. The issue of allocation of payment for the children's summer camp(s) shall be

and is addressed in the parties' Marital Settlement Agreement.

4. Medical and Health Related Issues

MOTHER and FATHER agree that they will share responsibility for major decisions relating to

DAUGHTER’s and SON’s health care, subject to the following terms and conditions:

a. Conduct of the Parties

The parties shall conduct themselves in a manner which promotes the cooperation and

involvement of the other party on any matters which concern a child’s medical, health

or other care, bearing in mind that the cooperation and involvement of both parties on

issues regarding such care is in the best interests of their children.

b. Choice of Care Providers

Unless both parties agree otherwise in writing, DAUGHTER and SON shall continue to

be treated by their current care providers, or in the event their current care providers are

no longer available to provide services or are no longer affiliated with the medical

insurance plan under which DAUGHTER and SON are covered, then DAUGHTER and

SON will be treated by care providers who practice as part of or are otherwise affiliated

with the medical insurance plan under which DAUGHTER and SON are covered.

c. Access to Health Care Providers and Medical and Dental Records

Each parent shall have access to DAUGHTER’s and SON’s health care providers and

medical and dental records, and each parent will provide the other with the names,

addresses, telephone numbers, and any other relevant information necessary to access

the providers of any health, psychological, dental or other care to their children.

d. Notification of Injury/Illness

Each party shall immediately inform the other of any injury to or illness of

DAUGHTER and SON which requires other than routine medical attention.

e. Therapy/Counseling for DAUGHTER and SON

1. DAUGHTER and SON shall continue to attend sessions with their current

counselor/therapist for so long as either child or both children express an

interest in continuing counseling or therapy, or either parent, a child's primary

teacher(s) or pediatrician recommend(s) that the child or children may

continue to benefit from counseling, therapy or both.

2. In the event the children are unable to continue with their current

counselor/therapist, the parties shall attempt to agree on the selection of a

counselor/therapist, however, in the event the parties cannot agree, then the

parties shall seek referrals from credible sources including but not limited to

the child's pediatrician. In the event the parties are unable to agree and an

impasse is reached, then the parties shall submit the matter to mediation

pursuant to the terms and conditions set forth in Article VII herein.

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Jacalyn Birnbaum

BIRNBAUM, HADDON, GELFMAN & ARNOUX, LLC

Child Rep Seminar July 20, 2016

MOTHER FATHER

Page 11 of 27

3. The parties will cooperate with the therapist and meet with him or her if the

therapist so requests.

4. The parties specifically agree and acknowledge that DAUGHTER and SON

shall have a confidential relationship with any treating counselor or therapist,

none of whom shall be named as a witness nor shall participate in any way in

connection with any litigation, pending or future, between the parties.

f. Medical/Dental/Mental Health Appointments

MOTHER and FATHER agree to the follow protocol regarding DAUGHTER’s and

SON’s medical/dental/mental health appointments; accordingly:

1. Unless otherwise agreed by the parties, MOTHER may arrange for all

routine medical, dental and other health care appointments for DAUGHTER

and SON and, to the extent practicable subject to a physician’s availability.

2. Routine appointments (i.e., wellness appointments, including but not limited to

vaccinations, check-ups, immunizations, bi-annual dental cleanings and

check-up, routine orthodontic appointments and other non-emergencies) shall

be scheduled at the earliest convenient date; MOTHER shall keep FATHER

advised as to same.

3. Non-routine procedures (including appointments for treatments and testing)

for DAUGHTER and SON which can be scheduled shall be scheduled at a

time and date when both parties can attend. Subject to the availability of the

care provider(s), MOTHER shall coordinate the scheduling of all non-routine

medical, dental, mental health, orthodontic, ophthalmological and optometric

appointments with FATHER. The parties agree to maximize DAUGHTER’s

and SON's comfort by respecting each other’s private time with each child.

4. During all such medical appointments, MOTHER and FATHER agree to

conduct themselves with the utmost decorum and discretion.

g. Major Medical Procedures

1. Emergency medical procedures deemed necessary for the preservation of life

or for the prevention of a further serious injury or illness may be authorized by

the parent who is in physical possession of DAUGHTER, SON or both at the

time, provided that all reasonable efforts shall be made to inform the other

parent as soon as reasonably possible.

2. Elective major medical procedures shall only be performed with the consent of

both parents, in accordance with the advice and recommendation(s) of

DAUGHTER’s and SON’s physician(s)/pediatrician(s)/medical provider(s).

3. Each party reserves the right to timely obtain a second opinion in connection

with DAUGHTER’s and SON’s medical and dental care. Upon reasonable

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Jacalyn Birnbaum

BIRNBAUM, HADDON, GELFMAN & ARNOUX, LLC

Child Rep Seminar July 20, 2016

MOTHER FATHER

Page 12 of 27

notice, the parties shall cooperate in making DAUGHTER, SON or both

available with regard to same.

4. In the event the parties are unable to agree as to any issue, then that issue or

issues shall be referred to mediation pursuant to the terms and conditions of

Article VII herein.

h. Prescriptions

Each party shall provide the other with any medically prescribed instructions for care

and medications which DAUGHTER, SON or both is/are taking at the time of the

transfer of physical possession, and with sufficient information to allow the parent

assuming such possession to continue any such instructions for care and to obtain refills

of that medication. During his or her time with DAUGHTER, SON or both, each parent

shall strictly follow the advice and direction of each child’s pediatrician(s), physician(s)

and medical providers, including but not limited to insuring that DAUGHTER, SON or

both take any and all prescribed medications with strict adherence to recommended

times and dosages.

i. Parenting Time When DAUGHTER, SON or Both is/are Ill

Recognizing the importance of maximizing DAUGHTER’s and SON’s comfort and the

value of each of parents to each child, the parties agree:

1. Each shall have access to and be able to visit with DAUGHTER, SON or both

in the event either is hospitalized for any reason. MOTHER and FATHER

will exercise her/his best efforts to arrange for each parent to spend time alone

with DAUGHTER, SON or both during such occasions.

2. Unless the parties otherwise agree, routine illness (e.g., colds, sniffles, etc.)

shall not be deemed sufficient cause to interrupt the parenting schedule set

forth herein, however, the parties agree to be sensible and sensitive to each

child’s comfort when she/they is/are suffering or recuperating from illnesses

that require bed rest (i.e., flu, temperatures of 100 degrees or more, etc.).

D. Obligation to Notify

1. E-mail shall be the preferred method of communication (or text messaging when time is of the

essence) and each parent shall give the other his/her e-mail address. In addition, each party

shall give the other party one telephone number (preferably a cellular number) at which he or she

can be reached or at which number a voice or text message can be left; and

2. In the event a parent successfully sends an e-mail which requests information, assistance or

assent from the other parent and the other parent does not reply within forty eight hours, the party

requesting said information etc. shall telephone the other parent; if the other parent does not

reply to either the original request or the subsequent call within the ensuing forty eight hours,

then the parent who sent the original e-mail and made the subsequent call shall be free to exercise

his or her own judgment regarding the issue(s) which were the subject of said e-mail and phone

call.

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3. Each party is under a continuing affirmative obligation to provide the other with any update(s) as

well as change(s) to said e-mail address and said one telephone number; and

4. Unless otherwise specified in this Agreement, if and when a party telephones, leaves a message

or both at the other's specified telephone number, the first party's obligation to notify and contact

the other shall be deemed satisfied.

E. Telephone Access

1. Each parent shall at all times have reasonable telephone access to DAUGHTER and SON, who

shall at all times have reasonable telephone access to both their parents, and neither parent

shall interfere therewith

2. Each parent shall have an answering machine or voice mail and, if either parent takes a message

from the other, the parent taking the message shall inform DAUGHTER or SON of the call and

shall encourage each to promptly return the other parent's call.

F. Attendance at Social Functions/Gifts

Unless the parties otherwise agree, when DAUGHTER or SON is invited to attend a social function (e.g.,

the birthday party of a classmate, etc.), the parent having the child(ren) on the day of the function shall be

responsible for taking the steps necessary to have her/them attend said function (e.g., purchasing and

wrapping the gift, arranging for transportation, etc.). Each party shall provide the other reasonable

advance notice of coming social functions (i.e., as soon as he/she receives notification so that each party

knows in advance of any such function and is not surprised on the morning of said function).

ARTICLE III

ALLOCATION OF PARENTING TIME

A. MOTHER's Parenting Time

MOTHER shall have parenting time with DAUGHTER and SON except when FATHER has parenting

time with DAUGHTER and SON.

B. FATHER's Regular Parenting Time

Unless and except as the parties otherwise agree, FATHER shall have Regular Parenting Time as follows:

1. Alternate Weekends, from Thursday at 4:30 p.m. through Sunday evening at 8:00 p.m. and

2. Each Tuesday, with DAUGHTER and SON , from 5:30 p.m. through delivery to school on

Wednesday morning.

C. Driving Arrangements

1. Each parent shall be responsible for picking up the children at the start of his or her parenting

time.

2. In the event FATHER, MOTHER or both is/are unable to physically pick up or deliver a child or

children, then DAUGHTER, SON or both may be transported by a member of a party’s

extended family, or other trusted third party known to the child(ren). Each party shall provide

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the other with the name(s) of said trusted third parties, but need not identify which trusted third

party will be picking up or delivering a child(ren) on any specific date or time.

3. If a parent (or trusted third party as set forth above) will be late in picking up or delivering the

child(ren) whether to home, school or activities – within ten minutes of realizing she or he will

be delayed – she or he will notify the parent who is expecting the pick-up or delivery and

advise as to the estimated time of arrival.

D. Good Faith Flexibility

The parties agree and acknowledge it is in the best interests of all concerned that both parents have close,

continuing contact with DAUGHTER and SON and that the structured allocation of parenting time set forth

in Section B of this Article is important. Nonetheless, the parties also recognize that good faith flexibility

on the part of both parties and each child will likely be required from time to time, including but not limited

to the following circumstances:

1. Advance Notice

FATHER will telephone and or otherwise inform MOTHER if he will be unable to be with

DAUGHTER or SON during his parenting time. Such notice shall be given as soon as he

becomes aware of any conflict, but at least 24 hours in advance, or, in emergency situations, as

soon as possible.

2. Unusual Events

a. “Unusual Events” shall be defined for purposes of this Agreement as one-time or

extraordinary events that cannot be rescheduled and over which a party has no

control, including but not limited to weddings, funerals, family reunions and family

celebrations.

b. The parties agree and acknowledge that it is in DAUGHTER’s and SON’s best

interests to attend such Unusual Events, and – except in the case of an existing and

unavoidable scheduling conflict - MOTHER and FATHER each agree to allow

DAUGHTER, SON or both to attend such Unusual Events.

c. Unless the parties otherwise agree, no make-up time will be had for DAUGHTER’s

and SON’s attendance at said Unusual Event(s).

3. Right of First Refusal

In the event either parent is out-of-town or otherwise unavailable for a period of twenty-four

(24) or more hours during any of his or her assigned parenting time, the other parent shall have

the right to care for DAUGHTER and SON during the assigned parent's absence. The parent

who will be out-of-town or otherwise unavailable shall give the other parent notice of his or

her scheduled absence immediately upon learning of same. If a parent declines the right to

care for DAUGHTER and SON during the other parent's absence, it will still be the

responsibility of the parent who will be out-of-town to make suitable arrangements during

his/her absence for the children’s care.

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Section 602.3. Care of minor children; right of first refusal (750 ILCS 5/602.3)

(a) If the court awards joint parenting time to both parents under Section 602.7 [allocation of

parenting time] or Section 602.8 [parenting time by parents not allocated significant decision

making responsibilities], the court may consider, consistent with the best interests of the child

as defined in Section 602.7, whether to award to one or both parties the right of first refusal to

provide child care.

(b) As used in this Section “right of first refusal” means that if a party intends to leave the

minor child or children with a substitute child-care provider for a significant period of time,

that party must first offer the other party an opportunity to personally care for the minor child

or children. The parties may agree to a right of first refusal that is consistent with the best

interest of the minor child or children. If there is no agreement and the court determines that a

right of first refusal is in the best interest of the minor child or children, the court shall consider

and make provisions in its order for:

(1) the length and kind of child-care requirements invoking the right of first refusal;

(2) notification to the other parent and for his or her response;

(3) transportation requirements; and

(4) any other action necessary to protect and promote the best interest of the minor child or

children.

(c) the right of first refusal may be enforced under Section 607.5 of this Act.

4. Flexibility as to Each Parent and His/Her Work Related Obligations

The parties agree and acknowledge the following:

a. that, by their nature, FATHER’ schedule and work related demands may be variable

and often unpredictable,

b. that if either parent’s work schedule necessitates a change in the time he or she

commences or exercises parenting time, then that parent shall advise the other at the

earliest possible opportunity and that parent will exercise his/her best efforts to

accommodate said changes;

c. that each party will use his/her best efforts to arrange for make-up parenting time if a

parent’s parenting time is substantially shortened as a result of work related conflicts.

5. Flexibility for the Children

a. DAUGHTER and SON shall have the right and obligation to timely raise and discuss

any requested changes, modifications to as well as deviations from the Parenting

Schedule directly with the parent to whom the time is allocated.

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b. Both MOTHER and FATHER shall accord each of their children respect and flexibility

in connection with the above. The parties will exercise his/her best efforts to agree to

and accommodate DAUGHTER’s as well as SON’s timely, direct and reasonable

requests and neither parent will unreasonably withhold consent to same.

E. Holidays

Unless the parties otherwise agree, the parties agree that a parent shall have the right to be with

DAUGHTER and SON during holidays, vacations and birthdays according to the following schedule:

HOLIDAY

MOTHER

FATHER

Easter Sunday

From 9:00 a.m. until delivery to school on

Monday

ALL YEARS

Passover

First Seder through the morning following the

Second Seder.

ALL YEARS

Spring Break

Subject to the above allocation of Easter

Sunday and Passover, defined as the five day

school vacation plus the weekend preceding

or following Spring Break.

EVEN YEARS

ODD YEARS

Mother’s Day

From 9:00 a.m. until delivery to school on

Monday

ALL YEARS

Memorial Day Weekend

From Friday pick up from school until

Monday night at 8:00 p.m.

EVEN YEARS

ODD YEARS

Father's Day

From 9:00 a.m. until delivery to school on

Monday

ALL YEARS

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HOLIDAY

MOTHER

FATHER

Independence Day

When July 4th

falls on Thursday:

From Wednesday July 3rd

at 5:30 thru

Sunday July 7th

at 8:00 p.m.

When July 4th

falls on Friday:

From Thursday July 3rd

at 5:30 thru Sunday

July 6th

at 8:00 p.m.

When July 4th

falls on Saturday or

Sunday

From Friday at 5:30 thru Monday at 8:00

p.m.

When July 4th

falls on Monday

From Friday at 5:30 p.m. thru Monday at

8:00 p.m.

When July 4th

falls on Tuesday

From Friday at 5:30 p.m. thru Tuesday at

8:00 p.m.

When July 4th

falls on Wednesday

From Tuesday at 5:30 p.m. thru Thursday at

8:00 p.m.

EVEN YEARS

ODD YEARS

Labor Day Weekend

From Friday pick up from school until

Monday night at 8:00 p.m.

ODD YEARS

EVEN YEARS

Rosh Hashanah

From 3:30 p.m. on Erev Rosh Hashanah

through 9:00 a.m. following the 2nd

day.

Yom Kippur

From 3:30 p.m. on Kol Nidre (the night

before) through the Break-the-Fast until

10:00 a.m. the following morning

ALL YEARS

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HOLIDAY

MOTHER

FATHER

Thanksgiving Weekend

From after school on Wednesday until

Sunday at 7:00 p.m..

EVEN YEARS

ODD YEARS

Winter Break

Winter Break defined as after school on the

last day before vacation until delivery to

school the first day following vacation

First Half (to include Xmas Day)

From after school through 12:00 noon on the

midpoint day of Winter Break (If the

midpoint falls on 12.25, then through 12:00

noon on 12.26)

Second Half (to include New Year’s)

From 12:00 noon on the midpoint day of

Winter Break until delivery to school the

first day following vacation.

ALL YEARS

ALL YEARS

MOTHER’s Birthday

From 9:00 a.m. until the following morning

delivery to school

ALL YEARS

FATHER’ Birthday

From 9:00 a.m. the night before until the

following morning delivery to school

ALL YEARS

ALL YEARS

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HOLIDAY

MOTHER

FATHER

DAUGHTER’s and SON’s Birthdays

Unless the parties agree to have one party,

each year, the parent having the children

shall host a birthday party for the child’s

friends.

Either or both parents shall be entitled to

have his or her own birthday celebrations for

extended family members on his or her

scheduled weekend.

DAUGHTER: ODD YEARS

SON: EVEN YEARS

DAUGHTER: EVEN YEARS

SON: ODD YEARS

Other School Holidays (Not listed above)

1. This provision contemplates holidays such as Martin Luther King’s Birthday, President’s Day as well

as any other school holiday which fall on a Friday or a Monday.

2. If a School Holiday immediately precedes or follows a weekend to which a party is entitled, then that

weekend may be extended to include the Official or School Holiday.

F. Vacation and Travel

1. Summer Vacation

In addition to the parenting time set forth in the above Holiday Schedule, MOTHER and

FATHER shall each have DAUGHTER and SON with him/her for up to three (3) weeks each

summer, subject to the following terms and provisions:

a. Definitions

For purposes of this Agreement:

1. “Summer Break”

“Summer Break” shall be defined as the period commencing after school on

the last day of school in the summer until four (4) days prior to the first day of

school in the fall. The children shall ALWAYS be with MOTHER for the

four days prior to the first day of school in the fall.

2. “Exclusive Parenting Time”

This summer vacation time shall be deemed to be “Exclusive Parenting

Time” between a parent and child, whether a parent is in town or out of

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town, but “Exclusive Parenting Time” shall not be deemed to interfere with

or otherwise compromise either parent’s right to reasonable telephone

contact with the children.

3. “Vacation Week”

Each “Vacation Week” shall be defined as five days plus a contiguous

Saturday/Sunday to which the parent is already entitled.

Illustration: To minimize the likelihood of 3+ sequential weekends without

a parent being with the children, the parties agree that in the event a parent

wishes to take an extended trip with the children, the parent would take

twelve consecutive days (i.e., 5 days before a Saturday/Sunday to which the

parent is entitled + Saturday/Sunday + the 5 days after).

b. Notice

Each party shall provide the other with written notice of vacation dates not later than

April 1st of each year. In the event there is a conflict:

1. FATHER’s choice will have priority in odd numbered years; MOTHER’s

choice will have priority in even numbered years; and

2. In the event a party fails to give written notice of his or her plans, then the

choice of the other party shall have first priority.

2. General rules pertaining to vacation and travel

a. Neither party shall schedule a vacation or trip with DAUGHTER and SON during the

other party's holiday period with the children, unless the parties otherwise agree;

b. During all travel with DAUGHTER and SON, the parties shall provide each other - as

soon as practicable, but preferably not less than fourteen days in advance - with full

information as to their itineraries, and with telephone numbers where the children will

be staying; and each parent shall be entitled to reasonable telephone access with

DAUGHTER and SON and the other parent will cooperate.

c. Each party shall be entitled to travel with DAUGHTER and SON within and outside

the borders of the United States. Both parties shall timely execute all documents

necessary to permit DAUGHTER and SON to travel outside the United States, and

neither party will unreasonably withhold said consent.

d. MOTHER shall hold DAUGHTER’s and SON’s passports. Upon FATHER’ request,

MOTHER shall provide the children’s passports to FATHER not less than seven

days prior to travel with the children out of the country; upon his return to the

country, FATHER shall provide said passports to MOTHER.

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G. Preparation of Annual Schedule

1. Intention of the Parties

The parties acknowledge and agree that each parent should not be separated from their children

for lengthy periods and that each will use best efforts to avoid having the children spend three

weekends in a row with only one parent.

2. Annual Schedule

Upon the entry of this Custody Judgment and, thereafter, at the beginning of each academic year

(or as soon as the school calendar for the following academic year is available), the parties will

prepare an annual calendar allocating parenting time to the parties (in different color markers, if

possible), in the following order:

a. Holidays (pursuant to the terms and conditions of the chart in Article III, Section E),

and holiday, vacation and birthday schedules shall take precedence over regular

parenting time.

b. Allocation of Parenting Time (pursuant to the terms and conditions of Article III,

Sections A and B).

c. Intention to Avoid Three (3) Weekends in a Row

During the preparation of the annual schedule, if for any reason, it appears that a parent

would have three weekends in a row with the children, then the parties shall adjust the

schedule to avoid same.

H. Additional Parenting Time

Either party may have additional time with DAUGHTER and SON by mutual agreement of the parties,

which need not be ratified by further Order of Court.

ARTICLE IV

DESIGNATION OF CUSTODIAN FOR PURPOSES OF OTHER STATUTES

PURSUANT TO SECTION 606.10 OF THE ACT (750 ILCS 5/606.10)

Section 606.10 provides: Solely for the purposes of all State and federal statutes that require a designation or

determination of custody or a custodian, a parenting plan SHALL designate the parent who is allocated the

majority of parenting time. This designation SHALL NOT affect parents’ rights and responsibilities under the

parenting plan. For purposes of Section 10-20.12b of the School Code only, the parent with the majority of

parenting time is considered to have legal custody.

ARTICLE V

RELOCATION

A. Intention of the Parties

While the parties anticipate that each will continue to reside within reasonable proximity of each other in

the State of Illinois, in the event either party seeks to permanently relocate DAUGHTER or SON from

the State of Illinois, the parties acknowledge the statutory definition of “Relocation” set forth in Section

600(g) of the Act (750 ILCS 5/600(g)) and the applicability of Section 5/609.2 of Act (750 ILCS

5/609.2).

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B. Statutory Definition of “Relocation” ( 750 ILCS 5/600(g))

(1) a change of residence from the child’s current primary residence located in the county of Cook,

DuPage, Kane, Law, McHenry or Will to a new residence within this State that is more than 25

miles from the child’s current residence;

(2) a change of residence from the child’s current primary residence located in a county not listed in

paragraph (1) to a new residence within this State that is more than 50 miles from the child’s

current primary residence; or

(3) a change of residence from the child’s current primary residence to a residence outside the

borders of this State that is more than 25 miles from the current primary residence.

C. Compliance with Procedural Requirements

FATHER and MOTHER understand and shall comply with the following terms and provisions of

Section 609.2 (750 ILCS 5/609.2), specifically (and with emphasis added):

1. A parent intending a “relocation” as defined above must provide Written Notice (“Written

Notice”) of the relocation to the other parent under the parenting plan or allocation judgment. A

copy of the notice required under this Section shall be filed with the clerk of the circuit court.

2. The parent intending relocation must provide at least 60 days Written Notice before the

relocation unless such notice is impracticable (in which case Written Notice shall be given at the

earliest date practicable) or unless otherwise ordered by the court. At a minimum, the Written

Notice must set forth the following:

(a) the intended date of the parent’s relocation;

(b) the address of the parent’s intended new residence, if known; and

(c) the length of time the relocation will last, if the relocation is not for an indefinite or

permanent period. The court may consider a parent’s failure to comply with the notice

requirements of this Section without good cause (i) as a factor in determining whether

the parent’s relocation is in good faith; and (ii) as a basis for awarding reasonable

attorney’s fees and costs resulting from the parent’s failure to comply with these

provisions.

3. If the non-relocating parent signs the Written Notice and the relocating parent files the Written

Notice with the court, relocation shall be allowed without any further court action. The court

shall modify the parenting plan or allocation judgment to accommodate a parent’s relocation as

agreed by the parents, as long as the agreed modification is in the child’s best interests.

4. If the non-relocating parent objects to the relocation, fails to sign the Written Notice, or the

parents cannot agree on modification of the parenting plan or allocation judgment, the parent

seeking relocation must file a petition seeking permission to relocate.

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D. Effect of Relocation 25 miles or less to a new primary residence OUTSIDE OF ILLINOIS

MOTHER and FATHER understand and acknowledge the following if a parent moves with a child 25

miles or less from the child’s current residence to a new primary residence outside of Illinois, specifically

and with emphasis added:

If a parent moves with a child 25 miles or less from the child’s current primary

residence to a new primary residence outside Illinois, ILLINOIS CONTINUES

TO BE THE HOME STATE OF THE CHILD UNDER SUBSECTION (c)

OF SECTION 202 of the Uniform Child-Custody Jurisdiction and

Enforcement Act. Any subsequent move from the new primary residence

outside Illinois greater than 25 miles from the child’s original primary residence in

Illinois must be in compliance with the provisions of this Section.”

E. Parental Agreement

So informed as to all the above referenced terms and provisions regarding relocation, both within and

outside the borders of the State of Illinois, MOTHER and FATHER hereby retain their right to jointly

agree, if they are willing and able, to terms of relocation which may vary, in whole or in part, from the

specific boundaries set forth in this Section, so long as the terms to which they agree serve the best

interests of their children and each other.

Section 609.2 . Parent’s relocation

(a) A parent’s relocation constitutes a substantial change in circumstances for purposes of Section 610.5.

(b) A parent who has been allocated a majority of parenting time or either parent who has been allocated equal

parenting time may seek to relocate with a child.

(c) A parent intending a relocation, as that terms in defined in paragraph (1), (2) or (3) of subsection (g) of Section

600 of this Act, must provide written notice of the relocation to the other parent under the parenting plan or

allocation judgment. A copy of the notice required under this Section shall be filed with the clerk of the circuit

court. The court may waive or seal some or all of the information required in the notice if there is a history of

domestic violence.

(d) The notice must provide at least 60 days written notice before the relocation unless such notice is impracticable

(in which case written notice shall be given at the earliest date practicable) or unless otherwise ordered by the court.

At a minimum, the notice must set forth the following:

(1) the intended date of the parent’s relocation;

(2) the address of the parent’s intended new residence, if known; and

(3) the length of time the relocation will last, if the relocation is not for an indefinite or permanent period. The

court may consider a parent’s failure to comply with the notice requirements of this Section without good cause (i)

as a factor in determining whether the parent’s relocation is in good faith; and (ii) as a basis for awarding reasonable

attorney’s fees and costs resulting from the parent’s failure to comply with these provisions.

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Section 609.2 Parent’s relocation (continued)

(e) If the non-relocating parent signs the notice that was provided pursuant to subsection (c) and the relocating

parent files the notice with the court, relocation shall be allowed without an further court action. The court shall

modify the parenting plan or allocation judgment to accommodate a parent’s relocation as agreed by the parents, as

long as the agreed modification is in the child’s best interests.

(f) If the non-relocating parent objects to the relocation, fails to sign the notice provided under subsection ( c) , or

the parents cannot agree on modification of the parenting plan or allocation judgment, the parent seeking relocation

must file a petition seeking permission to relocate.

(g) The court shall modify the parenting plan or allocation judgment in accordance with the child’s best interests.

The court shall consider the following factors:

(1) the circumstances and reasons for the intended relocation;

(2) the reasons, if any, why a parent is objecting to the intended relocation;

(3) the history and quality of each parent’s relationship with the child and specifically whether a parent has

substantially failed or refused to exercise the parental responsibilities allocated to him or her under the parenting

plan or allocation judgment;

(4) the educational opportunities for the child at the existing location and at the proposed new location;

(5) the presence or absence of extended family at the existing location and at the proposed new location;

(6) the anticipated impact of the relocation on the child;

(7) whether the court will be able to fashion a reasonable allocation of parental responsibilities between all

parents if the relocation occurs;

(8) the wishes of the child, taking into account the child’s maturity and ability to express reasonable and

independent preferences as to relocation;

(9) possible arrangements for the exercise of parental responsibilities appropriate to the parent’s resources and

circumstances and the developmental level of the child;

(10) minimization of the impairment to a parent-child relationship caused by a parent’s relocation; and

(11) any other relevant factors bearing on the child's best interests.

(h) If a parent moves with a child 25 miles or less from the child’s current primary residence to a new primary

residence outside Illinois, ILLINOIS CONTINUES TO BE THE HOME STATE OF THE CHILD under

subsection (c) OF SECTION 202 of the Uniform Child-Custody Jurisdiction and Enforcement Act. Any

subsequent move from the new primary residence outside Illinois greater than 25 miles from the child’s original

primary residence in Illinois must be in compliance with the provisions of this Section.”

ARTICLE VI

SPECIAL PROVISIONS REGARDING TRAVEL

OUTSIDE THE UNITED STATES

Pursuant to Article III of the Hague Convention of 25 October 1980 on the Civil Aspects of International Child

Abduction (hereinafter "Hague Convention"):

A. The "Habitual Residence" of DAUGHTER and SON is the United States of America, specifically the

County of Cook, State of Illinois, United States of America.

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MOTHER FATHER

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B. Allocation of Parental Responsibilities including Allocation of Parenting Time (formerly known as

Custody) between the parties having been resolved by the terms of this Allocation Judgment (formerly

known as Custody Judgment), for purposes of the Hague Convention both parties do have the right to

seek a return order regarding DAUGHTER and SON.

C. The parties agree and stipulate that at the present time neither MOTHER nor FATHER pose a risk of

physical or psychological harm to either DAUGHTER or SON in any way. DAUGHTER’s and SON’s

return to their Habitual Residence would not place either child in an intolerable situation, whether or not

MOTHER or FATHER returns with her or him.

D. It is in each CHILD’s best interests that each child and MOTHER or FATHER return promptly from

any vacation outside the United States in accordance with this Order.

E. Both FATHER and MOTHER agree that the appropriate jurisdiction and venue for the litigation and

resolution of any issues related to the allocation of parental responsibilities and parenting time

(formerly known as custody, care and control of CHILD) is the Circuit Court of Cook County, State of

Illinois, United States of America. Furthermore said court system and public and private agencies

within the jurisdiction and venue provide substantial protection for the physical, psychological, and

financial safety of the parties and their children.

F. The parties agree that he/she will not raise as a defense to a return order, if one has be to sought, that

DAUGHTER, son or both has resided in a foreign state in excess of one year either prior to the

commencement of a proceeding under the Hague Convention or that during a proceeding under the

Hague Convention, the year anniversary of the party’s presence in the foreign state had passed.

G. Nothing in the order shall aver or imply that either party has consented, or acquiesced to the permanent

removal of either CHILD to or retention in any country other than the United States of America.

H. CHILD’s Home State for purposes of the Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction and Enforcement Act,

750 ILCS 36/101 et seq., is the State of Illinois, the United States of America.

I. In the event either party fails to comply with the terms of this Order and fails to return DAUGHTER,

SON or both to the State of Illinois (subject to unavoidable delay(s) resulting from act(s) of God or

other circumstances beyond that party’s control, including but not limited to weather, flight

cancellations, or other verifiable, verified and emergent circumstances), then for the purposes of any

proceedings or litigation under the Hague Convention, the IMDMA, PKPA or UCCJEA resulting from

either party’s failure to timely return the minor child(ren) pursuant to the terms and conditions of this

Order:

the offending party shall pay and be solely responsible for all reasonable attorneys’ fees, expert fees

and other related costs incurred by the other party in connection with the filing and prosecution of any

proceedings commenced as a result of the other party's failure to return DAUGHTER, SON or both to

the State of Illinois pursuant to the terms and conditions of this Order.

J. In the event either party fails to return either DAUGHTER or SON to the appropriate jurisdiction in the

United States, [Attorney for FATHER] agrees to serve as FATHER’s registered agents for service of

summons in any Hague Convention proceedings and [Attorney for MOTHER] agrees to serve as

MOTHER’s registered agent for service of summons in any Hague Convention proceedings

Page 26: Circuit Court of Cook County Child Representative ... · 7/20/2016  · When parents fail to submit an agreed parenting plan, each parent must file and submit a written, signed parenting

Jacalyn Birnbaum

BIRNBAUM, HADDON, GELFMAN & ARNOUX, LLC

Child Rep Seminar July 20, 2016

MOTHER FATHER

Page 26 of 27

ARTICLE VII

MEDIATION AND REVIEW

A. If any disputes arise between the parents as to any of the provisions of this Order, or the modification or

implementation thereof, or any other issue relating to the general subject matter of this Order or to

DAUGHTER’s and SON’s welfare and best interests, the complaining party shall first notify the other

party of the nature of the complaint and both parties shall make reasonable attempts to negotiate a

settlement of the dispute. When practicable under the circumstances, the complaints shall be made in

written form and given to the other party.

B. The party receiving said complaint shall, when practicable, reply to the complaint in a similar manner in

written form. If the parties are unable to resolve their dispute within seven (7) days, the parties shall

participate in the non-binding mediation of their dispute, except as to matters which require immediate

attention (e.g., interference with planned vacation) for which disputes the parties may seek resolution

and adjudication by a court of competent jurisdiction.

C. Because successful mediation requires the cooperation of both parents, FATHER and MOTHER agree

to comport themselves in a considerate and restrained manner. Both parties specifically agree not to

intimidate or attempt to intimidate the other.

D. Participation in mediation shall not prejudice the right of either party to seek resolution and adjudication

of the dispute by a court of competent jurisdiction.

E. The mediation shall be conducted by [name the mediator and presumptive back-up mediator], or

another mediator in the State of Illinois upon whom the parties agree. The costs of mediation shall be

borne equally by the parties.

F. The provisions of this Agreement shall be reviewed by the parties as needed for the purpose of taking

into account the changing circumstances, needs and schedules of the parties and DAUGHTER and

SON.

Page 27: Circuit Court of Cook County Child Representative ... · 7/20/2016  · When parents fail to submit an agreed parenting plan, each parent must file and submit a written, signed parenting

Jacalyn Birnbaum

BIRNBAUM, HADDON, GELFMAN & ARNOUX, LLC

Child Rep Seminar July 20, 2016

MOTHER FATHER

Page 27 of 27

ARTICLE VIII

JURISDICTION

So long as at least one parent resides in the State of Illinois, the Circuit Court of the State of Illinois shall retain

exclusive and continuing jurisdiction over this cause to enforce or modify the terms and provisions of this

Allocation Judgment.

APPROVED:

MOTHER FATHER

Attorney for MOTHER Attorney for FATHER

____________________________________________

Child Representative

ENTERED:

____________________________________________________

J U D G E

Jacalyn Birnbaum, Esq.

BIRNBAUM, HADDON, GELFMAN & ARNOUX, LLC

Child Representative for DAUGHTER and SON

180 North LaSalle Street

37th Floor

Chicago, Illinois 60601

312.863.2800

[email protected]