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Erin E. Masters: Advancing Family Law Practice with the 2026 Edition of Child-Related Issues in Dissolution Actions

Family law is one of the most dynamic areas of legal practice, particularly when it comes to child-related issues in dissolution actions. These cases require not only a comprehensive understanding of statutes and case law but also a deep sensitivity to the impact of legal decisions on children and families. 

For over five decades, the Illinois Institute for Continuing Legal Education (IICLE®) has provided attorneys with authoritative guidance through its series of practice handbooks. Among these resources, FAMILY LAW: CHILD-RELATED ISSUES IN DISSOLUTION ACTIONS stands out as an essential reference for practitioners across Illinois.

The 2026 edition continues this legacy, and it is with great pride that we recognize the significant contributions of Erin E. Masters to this latest edition. Erin’s experience in family law, particularly in matters relating to children, has made this handbook a comprehensive, practical, and indispensable resource for attorneys navigating the challenges of dissolution actions.

A Legacy of Excellence in Family Law Resources

2026 Edition of Child-Related Issues in Dissolution Actions

IICLE® has long been recognized for producing high-quality, user-friendly legal handbooks that have guided Illinois attorneys through complex legal landscapes. For over 50 years, these resources have helped legal professionals stay current with statutory changes, judicial trends, and best practices in the field. 

The Child-Related Issues in Dissolution Actions handbook has been a cornerstone of this effort, providing detailed analysis and actionable guidance on matters including custody, visitation, child support, parental responsibilities, and the allocation of decision-making authority.

Each edition of this handbook is carefully crafted to reflect the most current developments in Illinois family law. By contributing to the 2026 edition, Erin E. Masters has helped ensure that attorneys have access to the most up-to-date guidance on critical issues affecting children in dissolution proceedings. Her work exemplifies the intersection of scholarly rigor and practical application, making complex legal concepts accessible and actionable for practitioners.

Erin E. Masters: Expertise and Impact

Erin E. Masters is widely respected in the legal community for her extensive knowledge of family law. Her practice focuses on complex family law matters, with a particular emphasis on cases involving children. Erin’s contributions to the 2026 edition of Child-Related Issues in Dissolution Actions reflect not only her legal knowledge but also her commitment to providing resources that empower attorneys to better serve their clients.

In the 2026 edition, Erin addresses a wide range of child-related issues, providing clear explanations, practical strategies, and references to relevant statutes and case law. Her work helps ensure that attorneys can approach custody disputes, visitation conflicts, and child support matters with confidence, equipped with insights drawn from years of experience in the courtroom and in practice.

Some of the areas highlighted in Erin’s contributions include:

  1. Custody and Decision-Making Authority: Erin provides detailed guidance on determining custody arrangements that prioritize the best interests of the child, including joint versus sole custody, allocation of parental responsibilities, and the practical considerations attorneys must evaluate when advising clients.
  2. Visitation and Parenting Time: The handbook offers comprehensive strategies for addressing visitation schedules, parenting time modifications, and resolving conflicts, helping attorneys advocate effectively while minimizing disruption to the child’s routine.
  3. Child Support and Financial Considerations: Erin’s work has helped ensure that practitioners have a clear understanding of how child support is calculated, including considerations for special needs, healthcare, education, and extraordinary expenses. Her guidance assists attorneys in protecting their clients’ financial interests while ensuring the child’s welfare is prioritized.
  4. Emerging Trends and Legal Developments: Family law is constantly evolving, and Erin addresses emerging issues such as the recognition of non-traditional families, the impact of relocation on custody arrangements, and recent appellate decisions that influence family law practice in Illinois.
  5. Practical Tools and Checklists: One of the hallmarks of Erin’s contribution is her emphasis on practical utility. The handbook includes sample forms, checklists, and step-by-step guidance to help attorneys streamline case preparation and client counseling.

Continuing the Tradition of Excellence

By contributing to this edition, Erin E. Masters has helped IICLE® maintain its reputation for producing first-rate, practice-oriented legal resources. Attorneys across Illinois rely on these handbooks to navigate complex family law matters, and Erin’s work helps ensure that the 2026 edition continues to meet this high standard. Her authorship reflects a commitment not only to the law but also to the attorneys and clients who benefit from clear, actionable guidance.

The 2026 edition also demonstrates a thoughtful integration of theory and practice. Erin’s writing balances detailed legal analysis with practical advice, ensuring that attorneys are not only informed about the law but also equipped to apply it effectively in real-world scenarios. This approach makes the handbook an indispensable tool for both seasoned practitioners and those.

Final Thoughts

2026 Edition of Child-Related Issues in Dissolution Actions (1)

The release of the 2026 edition of FAMILY LAW: CHILD-RELATED ISSUES IN DISSOLUTION ACTIONS marks another milestone in the ongoing tradition of excellence established by IICLE®. Erin E. Masters’ contributions are a testament to her expertise, dedication, and commitment to advancing the practice of family law in Illinois.

Through her work, attorneys now have access to a comprehensive, user-friendly, and highly practical resource that addresses the full spectrum of child-related issues in dissolution actions. From custody and visitation to child support and emerging legal developments, this handbook provides the guidance necessary to navigate even the most complex family law matters with confidence and competence.

For Illinois attorneys looking to enhance their practice, stay current with legal developments, and better serve their clients, the 2026 edition of Child-Related Issues in Dissolution Actions is an indispensable resource. Erin E. Masters’ authorship ensures that this handbook continues to be a cornerstone of family law practice, supporting attorneys and ultimately benefiting the children and families who rely on the legal system for guidance and protection.

If you or a loved one is facing family law matters involving children, Erin E. Masters and the team at Masters Law Group are here to provide guidance, personalized support, and strategic representation.

Contact Masters Law Group today to discuss your family law needs and help ensure your family’s best interests are protected.

How Does the Hague Convention Apply to a Child Custody Case?

Child custody (Parental Responsibilities) disputes can be emotionally draining, but when the involved parents reside in different countries, the situation becomes even more complex. That’s where the Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction comes in. 

With the increased mobility of couples, international child custody cases are becoming more common. Whether couples decide to live abroad or receive international jobs, child custody disputes that cross international borders are on the rise. Under the Hague Convention, children who are wrongfully abducted from the country where they live must be returned to that country, so that custody disputes can be resolved there.

In this blog, we will explore the implications of international child custody cases and discuss how the Hague Convention can provide assistance in resolving disputes. Here’s what you need to know.

WHY THE HAGUE CONVENTION IS IMPORTANT

The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is a crucial international agreement that deals with international parental child abduction. This treaty provides a legal process that allows a parent to seek the return of their child to their home country. The Convention was developed by the Hague Conference on Private International Law (HCCH) and entered into force on December 1, 1983. 

Numerous countries worldwide have joined the treaty, which aims to prevent wrongful removal or retention of a child from their habitual residence. The Convention considers any removal or retention that breaches custody rights attributed to a person or any other body as “wrongful,” regardless of whether the parent has legal custody. In many cases, U.S. court orders may not be recognized in other countries, and sovereign nations cannot interfere with each other’s legal systems. Therefore, the Hague Convention provides an essential framework for resolving international child custody disputes.

HAGUE CONVENTION FRAMEWORK

The Hague Convention’s framework helps countries work together to find solutions for custody cases where a child is abducted, regardless of the child’s immigration status or nationality. If a child is taken from their habitual home and brought to a foreign country, it violates the parent’s custodial rights.

The Central Authority can help with the following: 

  • Serves as the main point of contact for parents and children in international child custody cases.
  • Help locate abducted children.
  • Encourage solutions that benefit both parents.
  • Submit admissible documents as part of the application in partner countries. 

A custody order is not always necessary to prove that a parent’s custodial rights were violated, as proof of parenthood or marriage can be used instead. When a child is returned to their habitual residence, it is done based on the best interests of the child, and their immigration status or nationality is not a factor. The Hague Convention provides a crucial framework for resolving international custody disputes prioritizing the child’s well-being.

CAN THE COURT DENY A RETURN?

It is important to note that under specific circumstances, the court may deny the return of a child, and these exceptions can vary from country to country. The court may deny the following: 

  • Risk to the child where they are exposed to physical or psychological harm.
  • The child objects if they are old enough.
  • More than a year has passed, and the child adapts to their new home.
  • The custodial parent agrees to let the child remain.
  • The return would violate human rights and fundamental freedoms
  • The custodial parents seeking return are not exercising rights of custody during wrongful removal. 

The Hague Convention provides various procedures for coordinating international child abduction cases. It’s important to note that the exceptions for denying the return of a child can vary from country to country.

CHALLENGES PARENTS MAY FACE

When parents are dealing with international child custody disputes, they often face a variety of hurdles they need to overcome. One of the most significant challenges is simply navigating the legal system of another country. This can involve language barriers, unfamiliar legal procedures, and cultural differences that can make it difficult for parents to advocate for their rights effectively. 

Additionally, parents may struggle to locate and communicate with their children, especially if the other parent is hiding them. In some cases, parents may also face obstacles related to travel, such as visa restrictions or prohibitive travel costs. International child custody cases can be highly stressful and emotionally taxing for parents. That’s why it’s essential to have the right support and guidance throughout the process.

GET THE HELP YOU NEED

Acting fast is crucial when facing an international child custody case, and having an attorney who can file a Hague Convention application on short notice is essential. It’s crucial to seek legal counsel with knowledge and experience in Hague proceedings to navigate these complex cases successfully.

Erin Masters and Anthony Joseph are highly experienced in cases involving international child custody disputes in the State of Illinois and the United States federal court system. They have vast experience with the Hague Convention on Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction. 

If you’re interested in learning more, see our featured Hague Decisions:

Contact us today to schedule a consultation.