Aurora International Custody Lawyer

Aurora International Custody Attorney

Dealing with a lengthy custody battle can be overwhelming enough when it’s localized. Unfortunately, some custody battles can be far from simple, especially when they are international. Fighting for custody of your child when your former spouse lives in another country can be particularly complex. There are many different elements to consider. You should reach out to an Aurora international custody lawyer for help in working through your case.

The legal team at Schaffer Family Law, Ltd. can represent you in a variety of international custody situations. We understand how complicated these situations can become, especially if you don’t know where to start. Our dedicated legal team can examine the facts of your case thoroughly and provide you with the strongest legal advice we can. We recognize the inherent difficulties of custody battles. If you aren’t careful, you could deal with severe consequences should you lose.

Why Should You Hire an International Custody Lawyer?

There are many reasons why you should hire an international custody lawyer. First and foremost, international custody cases can be infinitely more complex than local ones. You will want an attorney who focuses on Aurora international custody laws and has experience with international custody cases. David N. Schaffer of Schaffer Family Law, Ltd. has over 38 years of experience handling local and international custody cases just like yours. We can confidently help you with your case.

According to statistical information gathered by the U.S. State Department, there were over 800 cases of international child abduction that the government was actively working to resolve in 2024. Child abduction cases commonly result in international custody cases, as many times, those children were abducted by their own parents, who then fled the country. Our legal team can help you fight for international custody or defend yourself and your parental rights.

As you deal with the hardships associated with international custody cases, it’s okay to feel overwhelmed. This may be one of the hardest things you’ve ever endured. There’s nothing wrong with asking for help in all this. You may want to consider reaching out to a local mental health support group like NAMI Illinois or Emotions Anonymous. Talking to people about your situation can be beneficial to your mental health, especially if they’ve been through similar struggles.

Factors to Consider in International Custody Cases

International custody cases can be far more aggressive and difficult to overcome than a local custody battle. The divorce rate in Illinois, according to the CDC, is around 1.1 per 1,000 residents. Parental responsibility cases in the state can be the result of the dissolution of marriage, as can international cases. However, when dealing with international cases, you may also have to consider multiple additional unique factors. Here are some of the factors to consider in international custody cases:

• First and foremost, in international custody cases where a child has been illegally removed from this country and taken to another, you may have to consider the Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction. This treaty is designed to assist in returning children across borders when they are taken into countries that adhere to this treaty. Cases involving the Hague can become especially complex.
• Even in international cases, the court has to prioritize the well-being of the child above all else. The child’s quality of life has to be considered, including whether the proposed move positively or negatively impacts their relationship with both parents and their education.

• We can assist in cases that involve retrieving a child from another country or involve you being ordered to return a child that you retrieved. Both cases can be difficult to overcome on your own. With the help of an experienced custody lawyer in Aurora, you may have a stronger chance of succeeding, as even one small mistake can damage your case.

FAQs

Can I Fight for Custody from Another Country?

Yes, it is entirely possible for you to fight for custody from another country. However, international custody battles can be particularly complex, overwhelming, and unpredictable. Your success may be dependent on many different factors, some of which may be out of your control. You may have to consider elements of the Hague Convention, as well as the overall jurisdiction of your case. An experienced lawyer can help with your fight.

What Is the International Law for Child Custody?

The international law for child custody is largely governed by the Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction. This treaty was developed to ensure the prompt and safe return of children across international borders in cases of abduction and custody battles, among other situations. The Hague Convention does not have much to say in regard to which parent will receive custody. It focuses on the return of the child to their proper residence.

How Much Does a Custody Lawyer Cost in Illinois?

The cost of an Illinois child custody attorney can range. Every child custody case is unique, with every case having its own factors and details that will contribute to the case’s outcome and the amount that your lawyer will charge for their services. Generally, your lawyer’s overall fee will be determined by the complexity of the case, whether your case is contested or uncontested, and the lawyer’s own experience, education, and resources.

How Does Child Custody Work if the Parents Live in Different Countries?

There are different ways that child custody can work if the parents live in different countries. Depending on the relationship between the parents, working out a mutually beneficial custody arrangement may involve court intervention and international agreements. The main thing to consider is habitual residence, which is the country where the child primarily lives and grows up. Ultimately, it is up to the parents and the court to work out an agreement that is in the child’s best interest.

Reach Out to an International Custody Lawyer Today

Dealing with an international custody battle can be considerably difficult, especially if you are trying to work through it without any legal assistance. You could end up sabotaging yourself inadvertently, and you will want experienced legal help throughout this trying time. The legal team at Schaffer Family Law, Ltd. knows how to navigate these cases and what kind of support you need. Contact us to speak to a member of our team about your case.