Child Custody | Adoption & Guardian,
With Clear Guidance & Proven Results
Child Custody lawyer who listen, strategize for the best outcome, and provide a clear roadmap with realistic results, transparent costs, and timelines.
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Servicing Cook, Lake, & Dupage County
Trusted by Families & Business Professionals Across Chicagoland
Choose The Right Child Custody Law Firm
Get Answers, Not Legal Jargon
We understand how confusing it can be to find a lawyer who gets you and keeps your best interests first. At Zeidman & Carpenter, we listen first—understanding your situation and guiding you to the best legal options. Whether you need a lawyer or just the right advice, we’ll give you honest answers, not pressure.
Every child deserves a stable and supportive environment. We help parents establish joint or sole custody agreements that reflect the child’s best interests, ensuring fair parenting time and visitation schedules. Whether negotiating custody terms or modifying existing agreements, we advocate for balanced solutions that protect parental rights while fostering a healthy co-parenting relationship.
Ensuring financial stability for a child is essential. Our attorneys assist with child support calculations, enforcement actions, and modifications when circumstances change. Whether a parent is overpaying or needs adjustments due to job changes, medical expenses, or custody shifts, we ensure financial responsibilities align with legal guidelines and parental income.
Adoption and guardianship involve complex legal processes that require precision. We guide families through step-parent adoptions, kinship adoptions, private adoptions, and legal guardianships, ensuring compliance with state laws. From filing legal documents to finalizing court procedures, we help make the process smooth and legally sound for all parties involved.
A parent’s right to raise, protect, and support their child is fundamental. We assist in establishing paternity, defending against wrongful custody claims, and securing legal recognition of parental rights. Whether you’re seeking guardianship, terminating parental rights, or navigating contested custody cases, we ensure your rights are upheld.
Real People, Real Cases, Real Wins
“I had the privilege of working with Lee Zeidman at Zeidman & Carpenter PLLC for my divorce proceedings, and he exceeded all expectations. From beginning to end, Lee was professional and knowledgeable. He demonstrated exceptional responsiveness and timeliness. He guided me through every step, making the process less intimidating. His foresight in anticipating challenges and advising me was instrumental in navigating the complexities of divorce. His attention to detail and thoroughness in explaining documents underscored his commitment to superb service. My case wasn’t simple, but he did a great job negotiating my settlement. I am very happy with the outcome. He truly is an incredible attorney. I highly recommend him!”
Child Custody & Adoption Law Questions, Answered
Answers to clarify cost, time, outcome and strategy to help you make the right decision for your situation.
Courts prioritize the child’s best interests when deciding custody arrangements. Factors include:The child’s age, health, and emotional needs.
Each parent’s ability to provide a stable home.
Parental work schedules and caregiving capacity.
History of abuse, neglect, or domestic violence.
The child’s preference (if old enough to express a reasoned choice).
We believe in transparent pricing with no hidden fees or surprises. Our fee structure depends on the complexity of your case and the legal services you require. Here’s how we typically charge:
Flat Fees: For straightforward cases, such as uncontested custody agreements, step-parent adoptions, or legal guardianship filings, we offer clear, upfront pricing so you know exactly what to expect.
Hourly Rates: For complex custody disputes, contested adoptions, or parental rights enforcement cases, we charge competitive hourly rates with detailed billing transparency.
Retainer Fees: For ongoing legal representation, an initial retainer covers case preparation, court filings, home studies (for adoption), and legal strategy sessions. We provide regular case updates so you always know where your investment is going.
Payment Plans: We understand that family law matters can be financially challenging. In some cases, we offer flexible payment plans to help you secure the representation you need without financial strain.
To obtain joint or full custody, you must show that shared parenting benefits the child’s well-being. Courts consider factors such as stability, involvement, financial capability, and the child’s relationship with both parents. If the other parent is unfit (due to neglect, abuse, or instability), you can pursue sole custody with strong legal advocacy.
Choosing the right attorney can make all the difference in your case. We're here to make your life easier, not harder.
Proven Legal Strategies – We take a results-driven approach, crafting solutions that align with your goals.
Transparent Pricing & No Hidden Fees – You’ll know exactly what to expect from day one.
Personalized Attention – Your case won’t be handed off—you’ll work directly with an experienced attorney.
Clear Communication & Case Updates – No waiting for answers—we keep you informed every step of the way.
Aggressive When Needed, Strategic Always – We fight for the best possible outcome, whether in negotiations or court.
The timeline varies depending on the type of adoption:
Private and step-parent adoptions may take several months.
Foster care adoptions can take 6 months to 2 years, depending on termination of parental rights and background checks.We streamline the process, ensuring all paperwork, court filings, and home studies are handled efficiently.
To make the most of your consultation, bring:
Basic Information – Your contact details, child’s name, birthdate, and a brief case summary.
Key Documents – Birth certificates, paternity documents (if applicable), existing custody/support agreements, and any relevant communication records.
Your Goals – Custody and visitation preferences, decision-making rights, and child support concerns.
Important Dates – Any upcoming court dates, deadlines, or modifications.
Questions & Concerns – Any specific issues you'd like to discuss for clarity and next steps.
Legal custody refers to a parent’s right to make major decisions about the child’s education, healthcare, and religious upbringing. Physical custody determines where the child will live and the parenting time schedule.Custody can be joint (shared by both parents) or sole (one parent has primary authority)Document missed visitations and communication to support your case.
Every legal case is unique, and while we fight for the best possible outcome, no attorney can guarantee a specific result. However, here’s what you can expect when working with us:
Clear Expectations Upfront – Honest assessment of your case, outlining potential outcomes and risks.
A Strong Legal Strategy – Customized legal plan to protect your rights and maximize success.
Negotiation & Litigation Expertise – Proven strategies to advocate for your best interests in and out of court.
Transparent Communication – Regular updates so you’re never left wondering what’s next.
A Focus on Long-Term Solutions – We aim for lasting resolutions, not just quick fixes.
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Case Study
Protecting a Family’s
Legacy in Skokie, IL
"First time using Zeidman & Carpenter for a real estate closing and it won't be the last! Lee and Corrie were great communicators during this super quick 7 day closing requested by the buyer. Lee had to navigate finding a surveyor who could get the property surveyed quickly which he did before I was able to utilize my contacts in this area at a very reasonable price. They were fantastic to work with and am looking forward to the next real estate transaction."
Our Child Custody & Adoption Legal Process:
From Start to Winning Outcomes
We make the legal process clear, structured, and stress-free. Whether you’re navigating child custody disputes, visitation rights, decision-making authority, or child support adjustments, we guide you through every step to protect your parental rights and secure the best possible outcome for you and your child.
- Strategic Consultation & Case Evaluation
- Legal Filing and Documentation
- Negotiation, Mediation & Agreements
- Court Representation & Advocacy(If Needed)
- Final Orders, Post-Judgment Modifications & Ongoing Support
Whether you're seeking custody arrangements or navigating the adoption process, we begin with a one-on-one consultation to assess your situation. For custody cases, we outline your parental rights, decision-making authority, and visitation options. For adoption, we discuss legal requirements, background checks, and parental consent issues. Our team provides a clear legal roadmap to help you make informed decisions and secure the best outcome for your family.
Legal paperwork is a critical step in both child custody and adoption cases. We prepare and file essential documents, including custody petitions, parenting plans, adoption petitions, and consent agreements. Ensuring that all paperwork is accurate, enforceable, and legally sound, we minimize delays that could impact your rights as a parent or prospective adoptive parent.
Many custody and adoption matters can be resolved without court intervention through negotiation and mediation. For custody cases, we assist in developing co-parenting agreements, financial responsibilities, and visitation schedules that prioritize the child’s well-being. In adoption cases, we guide families through birth parent negotiations, agency agreements, and adoption-related financial arrangements to ensure a smooth transition.
While many child custody and adoption cases are resolved through mediation or negotiation, some situations require court intervention. If your custody case involves disputes over parental rights, visitation, or child support modifications, we provide strong courtroom advocacy to protect your parental rights and ensure your case is effectively presented. In adoption cases, we represent families in court hearings to finalize legal guardianship, parental consent issues, and compliance with state adoption laws.
We offer long-term legal support to help navigate post-judgment modifications, including changes to custody agreements, child support adjustments, and parental decision-making rights. If circumstances change—such as relocation, financial shifts, or co-parenting conflicts—we help ensure your legal protections remain intact. Whether you need enforcement of existing court orders or modifications to meet new circumstances, we remain your trusted legal resource.
When You Can’t Afford To Be Wrong, Get Clear Answers
Our Free Consultations Include:
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Honest Advice with No Pressue
Proactive Problem Prevention
Complex Legal Terms Explained In Plain English
Contact us
We offer two ways to get started:
1. Quick Contact Form (Right →) : If you have a general inquiry or need a brief consultation, fill out the simple form to connect with us.
2. Detailed Intake Form (Below ↓) : If you’re ready to take the next step, our intake forms help us gather key details upfront—saving you time and allowing our attorneys to quickly determine how we can assist you. These forms help qualify cases and ensure we provide the most relevant guidance.