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Parenting Time and Decision-Making Legal Tools, Psychological Insights, and the Roles of GALs, Court Representatives, and Effective 604.10 Evaluations

2025-06-23 14:00:00

2025-06-23 14:00:00

2 Credits

Child Representation in Illinois Family Law: Understanding GALs, Child Representatives, and 604.10 evaluators in contested custody cases.

2025-06-23 14:00:00

Child Representation in Illinois Family Law: Understanding GALs, Child Representatives, and 604.10 evaluators in contested custody cases.

2025-06-23 14:00:00

1000+

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Trusted by Legal Professionals

1000+

Live stream programs

24/7

Access to live webinars & recordings

70,000+

Trusted by Legal Professionals

1000+

Live stream programs

24/7

Access to live webinars & recordings

70,000+

Trusted by Legal Professionals

1000+

Live stream programs

24/7

Access to live webinars & recordings

70,000+

Trusted by Legal Professionals

Key topics that will be covered

What will you learn

Attorneys will learn about Guardians ad Litem, Child Representatives, and 604.10 evaluators, including their appointment processes, investigative methods, and how findings influence custody outcomes.

What will you gain

Attorneys will gain understanding of statutory factors for decision-making and parenting time, investigation protocols, report requirements, and cost allocation procedures.

Parenting Plans
Allocation judgments address decision-making and parenting time under best interest standards.
GAL Role
Guardians ad Litem investigate facts, submit reports, and testify as witnesses.
Child Representative
Child Representatives advocate for best interest and maintain confidentiality with children.
604.10 Evaluators
Mental health professionals conduct comprehensive evaluations and provide detailed recommendations.
Statutory Factors
Courts evaluate wishes, adjustment, health, cooperation, and violence history.
Cost Allocation
Courts determine fee allocation and require invoices filed every 90 days.

What will you learn

Attorneys will learn about Guardians ad Litem, Child Representatives, and 604.10 evaluators, including their appointment processes, investigative methods, and how findings influence custody outcomes.

What will you gain

Attorneys will gain understanding of statutory factors for decision-making and parenting time, investigation protocols, report requirements, and cost allocation procedures.

Agenda

Session 1

Brief Guide to Parenting Time and Decision-Making

Session 2

Guardian ad Litem vs Child Representative Roles

Session 3

Comparison Chart of GAL and Child Representative

Session 4

Break

Session 5

Pros and Cons of Each Appointment Type

Session 6

Understanding the Attorney for the Child Role

Session 7

Cost Allocation for GAL and Child Representative

Session 8

604.10 Evaluators and Comprehensive Custody Evaluations

clock 2:00 pm - 2:20 pm EST

Brief Guide to Parenting Time and Decision-Making

Erin M. Wilson

The Law Office of Erin M. Wilson LLC

Dr. Rob Siegel

Cook and Lake County

This session introduces allocation judgments and parenting plans, explaining what happens when parents cannot agree on custody arrangements. Attendees will learn about the court’s available tools including mediation, and explore the statutory factors governing decision-making and parenting time under Illinois law.

Erin M. Wilson

The Law Office of Erin M. Wilson LLC

Dr. Rob Siegel

Cook and Lake County

clock 2:20 pm - 2:40 pm EST

Guardian ad Litem vs Child Representative Roles

Erin M. Wilson

The Law Office of Erin M. Wilson LLC

Dr. Rob Siegel

Cook and Lake County

This session examines the critical distinctions between Guardians ad Litem and Child Representatives under 750 ILCS 5/506, including appointment procedures and investigative authority. Participants will learn about the investigation process including collateral interviews, document access, home visits, and the differences between GAL reports and Child Representative memoranda.

Erin M. Wilson

The Law Office of Erin M. Wilson LLC

Dr. Rob Siegel

Cook and Lake County

clock 2:40 pm - 3:00 pm EST

Comparison Chart of GAL and Child Representative

Erin M. Wilson

The Law Office of Erin M. Wilson LLC

Dr. Rob Siegel

Cook and Lake County

This session provides a detailed side-by-side comparison of Guardian ad Litem and Child Representative roles across key factors. Attendees will analyze differences in confidentiality, courtroom function, written work product, and statutory obligations to clarify when each appointment is most appropriate.

Erin M. Wilson

The Law Office of Erin M. Wilson LLC

Dr. Rob Siegel

Cook and Lake County

clock 3:00 pm - 3:10 pm EST

Break

Erin M. Wilson

The Law Office of Erin M. Wilson LLC

Dr. Rob Siegel

Cook and Lake County

A brief intermission allowing attendees to refresh and prepare for the remaining sessions. Use this time to reflect on the material covered and formulate questions for upcoming discussions.

Erin M. Wilson

The Law Office of Erin M. Wilson LLC

Dr. Rob Siegel

Cook and Lake County

clock 3:10 pm - 3:20 pm EST

Pros and Cons of Each Appointment Type

Erin M. Wilson

The Law Office of Erin M. Wilson LLC

Dr. Rob Siegel

Cook and Lake County

This session weighs the advantages and disadvantages of appointing a Guardian ad Litem versus a Child Representative based on case-specific factors. Considerations include child’s age, need for written reports or testimony, financial constraints, and whether a 604.10 evaluator is anticipated.

Erin M. Wilson

The Law Office of Erin M. Wilson LLC

Dr. Rob Siegel

Cook and Lake County

clock 3:20 pm - 3:40 pm EST

Understanding the Attorney for the Child Role

Erin M. Wilson

The Law Office of Erin M. Wilson LLC

Dr. Rob Siegel

Cook and Lake County

This session explores the rarely-used Attorney for the Child appointment under 750 ILCS 5/506(a)(1), distinguishing it from the Child Representative role. Attendees will learn when this appointment occurs, typically when a child is subpoenaed to testify or needs direct legal representation.

Erin M. Wilson

The Law Office of Erin M. Wilson LLC

Dr. Rob Siegel

Cook and Lake County

clock 3:40 pm - 3:50 pm EST

Cost Allocation for GAL and Child Representative

Erin M. Wilson

The Law Office of Erin M. Wilson LLC

Dr. Rob Siegel

Cook and Lake County

This session addresses the financial aspects of GAL and Child Representative appointments, including retainer requirements, 90-day invoice filings, and court approval processes. Participants will also learn about fee reallocation options and the emerging challenges posed by 298 fee waiver filings.

Erin M. Wilson

The Law Office of Erin M. Wilson LLC

Dr. Rob Siegel

Cook and Lake County

clock 3:50 pm - 4:10 pm EST

604.10 Evaluators and Comprehensive Custody Evaluations

Erin M. Wilson

The Law Office of Erin M. Wilson LLC

Dr. Rob Siegel

Cook and Lake County

This session covers the role of 604.10 mental health evaluators under 750 ILCS 5/604.10, including their appointment, cost allocation, and comprehensive investigation process. Attendees will learn about parent interviews, child interviews, home observations, psychological testing, report components, and the evaluator’s role as an expert witness in court proceedings.

Erin M. Wilson

The Law Office of Erin M. Wilson LLC

Dr. Rob Siegel

Cook and Lake County

01 08
Prev
Next

speakers

Joe Ervin

The Law Firm for Truck Safety, LLP
A Partner at The Law Firm for Truck Safety. He focuses exclusively on cases involving commercial motor vehicle crashes and wrongful death. Joe also holds a valid class “A” commercial driver’s license with endorsements for double/triple trailers and tankers.

Education & Credentials

A 2013 graduate of the Gerry Spence Trial Lawyers College in Dubois, Wyoming, Joe is rated AV Preeminent™ by Martindale-Hubbell — the highest peer rating for exceptional legal ability and ethics. He is among the first nine attorneys nationwide to earn board certification in Truck Accident Law from the National Board of Trial Advocacy.

Recognition & Leadership

Joe received the Roadway Safety Award from the American Association for Justice (AAJ) for his commitment to improving highway safety.
 He currently serves as Co-Chair of the Academy of Truck Accident Attorneys (ATAA) Safety Committee, advocating for higher safety standards across the trucking industry.

Professional Involvement

Joe serves on the faculty of the AAJ Advanced Trial Advocacy College: Litigating Truck Collision Cases (2015 & 2024).
 He is an active member of AAJ’s Trucking Litigation Group and sits on the Board of Regents for the Academy of Truck Accident Attorneys.

Experience

Joe frequently consults and co-counsels on complex commercial truck cases. His proven track record includes numerous successful trials against motor carriers and truck leasing companies — delivering justice for victims of commercial vehicle accidents.

Kevin Foley

Reminger Co
A Partner at The Law Firm for Truck Safety. He focuses exclusively on cases involving commercial motor vehicle crashes and wrongful death. Joe also holds a valid class “A” commercial driver’s license with endorsements for double/triple trailers and tankers.

Education & Credentials

A 2013 graduate of the Gerry Spence Trial Lawyers College in Dubois, Wyoming, Joe is rated AV Preeminent™ by Martindale-Hubbell — the highest peer rating for exceptional legal ability and ethics. He is among the first nine attorneys nationwide to earn board certification in Truck Accident Law from the National Board of Trial Advocacy.

Recognition & Leadership

Joe received the Roadway Safety Award from the American Association for Justice (AAJ) for his commitment to improving highway safety.
 He currently serves as Co-Chair of the Academy of Truck Accident Attorneys (ATAA) Safety Committee, advocating for higher safety standards across the trucking industry.

Professional Involvement

Joe serves on the faculty of the AAJ Advanced Trial Advocacy College: Litigating Truck Collision Cases (2015 & 2024).
 He is an active member of AAJ’s Trucking Litigation Group and sits on the Board of Regents for the Academy of Truck Accident Attorneys.

Experience

Joe frequently consults and co-counsels on complex commercial truck cases. His proven track record includes numerous successful trials against motor carriers and truck leasing companies — delivering justice for victims of commercial vehicle accidents.

Grant H. Lawson

The Law Firm for Truck Safety, LLP
A Partner at The Law Firm for Truck Safety. He focuses exclusively on cases involving commercial motor vehicle crashes and wrongful death. Joe also holds a valid class “A” commercial driver’s license with endorsements for double/triple trailers and tankers.

Education & Credentials

A 2013 graduate of the Gerry Spence Trial Lawyers College in Dubois, Wyoming, Joe is rated AV Preeminent™ by Martindale-Hubbell — the highest peer rating for exceptional legal ability and ethics. He is among the first nine attorneys nationwide to earn board certification in Truck Accident Law from the National Board of Trial Advocacy.

Recognition & Leadership

Joe received the Roadway Safety Award from the American Association for Justice (AAJ) for his commitment to improving highway safety.
 He currently serves as Co-Chair of the Academy of Truck Accident Attorneys (ATAA) Safety Committee, advocating for higher safety standards across the trucking industry.

Professional Involvement

Joe serves on the faculty of the AAJ Advanced Trial Advocacy College: Litigating Truck Collision Cases (2015 & 2024).
 He is an active member of AAJ’s Trucking Litigation Group and sits on the Board of Regents for the Academy of Truck Accident Attorneys.

Experience

Joe frequently consults and co-counsels on complex commercial truck cases. His proven track record includes numerous successful trials against motor carriers and truck leasing companies — delivering justice for victims of commercial vehicle accidents.

Erin M. Wilson

The Law Office of Erin M. Wilson LLC

Dr. Rob Siegel

Cook and Lake County

Erin M. Wilson

The Law Office of Erin M. Wilson LLC

Erin M. Wilson is a family law attorney who founded her firm in 2019 after practicing for 10 years at a preeminent family law firm. She focuses exclusively on family law cases including divorce, custody/parenting issues, child support and maintenance, domestic violence, and prenuptial agreements.

Education & Credentials

Trained in mediation and collaborative law.

Experience

Founded her firm in 2019 after 10 years practicing at a preeminent family law firm where she was a partner. Has extensive trial experience with a reputation for being kind when appropriate and aggressive when necessary. Successfully tackles tough parenting disputes and complex financial cases. Offers parenting coordination services post-judgment. Serves diverse clients from teachers and police officers to corporate executives and stay-at-home parents.

Erin M. Wilson

The Law Office of Erin M. Wilson LLC

Erin M. Wilson is a family law attorney who founded her firm in 2019 after practicing for 10 years at a preeminent family law firm. She focuses exclusively on family law cases including divorce, custody/parenting issues, child support and maintenance, domestic violence, and prenuptial agreements.

Education & Credentials

Trained in mediation and collaborative law.

Experience

Founded her firm in 2019 after 10 years practicing at a preeminent family law firm where she was a partner. Has extensive trial experience with a reputation for being kind when appropriate and aggressive when necessary. Successfully tackles tough parenting disputes and complex financial cases. Offers parenting coordination services post-judgment. Serves diverse clients from teachers and police officers to corporate executives and stay-at-home parents.

Dr. Rob Siegel

Cook and Lake County

Dr. Siegel is a clinical and forensic psychologist practicing in Cook and Lake County. He specializes in working with youth and families who have endured various trauma and abuse including domestic violence and sexual abuse.

Professional Involvement

Past president for the Illinois Chapter for the Association of Family Conciliation Courts.

Experience

Family evaluator for the courts conducting 215a evaluations and 604.10(b) evaluations. Maintains a clinical practice providing co-parenting counseling, parent coaching, reunification therapy, and general therapy with adolescents and adults. Extensive background working with families and youth across a continuum of care including intensive outpatient programs, residential care, juvenile detention, inpatient hospitals, and foster care. Consulting psychologist for DCFS for seven years. On medical staff at Chicago Lakeshore hospital for five years.

Plans

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Ability to Ask Questions During
the Presentation via a Chat Box
Included
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Exclusive Partner Webinars & Events
Special credits (Ethics, Elimination
of Bias, etc.)
Instant Certificates After Completion
Personalized CLE Platform
Live Conferences
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Why Attend

Why this 
program matters

Mastering child representation roles, custody evaluations, and statutory factors enables family law practitioners to effectively advocate for clients and protect children’s best interests in complex parenting disputes.
22M
Children in the U.S. have a parent living outside their household, representing over one-quarter of all children under 21. (U.S. Census Bureau, 2018)
90%
Of custody cases are resolved without court trials, highlighting the critical importance of negotiation, mediation, and alternative dispute resolution skills. (Clio Family Law Statistics, 2026)
3.8M
Family law cases are handled by state courts annually, including divorces, child support matters, paternity cases, and guardianship proceedings. (Clio Family Law Statistics, 2026)
4%
Of custody cases require going to trial for primary custody determination, with 5% resolved through custody evaluations and 11% through mediation. (U.S. Census Bureau)

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The Alabama State Bar MCLE Commission requires attorneys to complete 12 credits, including 1 ethics, by December 31 of each year. All credits must be reported by February 15 of the following year. A maximum of 12 credits, including 1 ethics credit, may be carried over for 1 year only.  

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