Child Interviews in Illinois Child Custody Cases Explained

Article written by Illinois Attorney Kevin O’Flaherty

In this article, we explain child interviews in Illinois child custody cases, including:

• Do children have to testify in Illinois child custody cases?
• What if my spouse tries to influence my child’s testimony?
• How to prepare a child for a child custody interview.

For some foundational information on allocation of parenting time and responsibilities, check out our article: Illinois Parenting Laws.

Do children have to testify in Illinois child custody cases?

There is no doubt that court hearings and trials are particularly stressful for children. Parents themselves should do all they can to protect their children from getting involved in the court proceedings. Fortunately, most kids do not have to testify in court to make their custody wishes known.

In an effort to protect children from the negative impacts of custody disputes and stresses related to testifying, judges try to avoid putting children on the witness stand (except in emergencies). Alternatively, a judge can speak directly with the child during an interview in the judge’s chambers. This preferred way of taking the testimony in chambers is called an in camera interview ( In camera is a Latin term…