Who has the right to file for custody of a child in Illinois?

In Illinois, the right to file for custody of a child is not limited to just biological parents. Besides biological parents, legal guardians have the legal standing to seek custody, as they have been granted responsibility over the child's welfare. Additionally, interested parties—such as relatives, family friends, or others who can demonstrate a significant relationship with the child and a concern for the child's best interests—can also file for custody. This broader inclusion reflects the understanding that various individuals in a child's life can play crucial roles in their care and upbringing, and the law allows them to seek custody arrangements when necessary.

The structure of custody law in Illinois emphasizes the child's best interests, which can lead to cases where a non-parent might be better suited to provide care. This perspective encourages stable environments for children, considering the complexities of modern family dynamics.