.1).jpg)
How Custody Is Determined
When parents get a divorce, one of the most challenging decisions that needs to be made is child custody. What type of custody will be best for the child? How will child custody be determined? This blog will provide an overview of child custody in Ohio. We'll discuss the different types of child custody, how child custody is determined in Ohio, and some things to consider when working through a child custody case.
Types of Child Custody in Ohio
In Ohio, child custody is referred to as "parental rights and responsibilities." There are two primary types of child custody in Ohio: legal and physical. Legal custody pertains to the child's welfare, including decisions about education, religion, and medical care. Physical custody refers to where the child will live and with whom.
Both of these types of custody can be joint or sole. Joint custody gives both parents a say in decision-making for the child. Sole custody gives just one parent this responsibility. In many cases, it is common to see one parent have primary physical custody while the other has visitation rights.
How is Child Custody Determined in Ohio?
The court will consider several key factors when making a child custody determination, including:
The wishes of the child's parents
The wishes of the child
The child's interaction and relationship with each parent, siblings, and other significant adults
Each parent's ability to provide a stable home environment for the child
The mental and physical health of each parent
Any history of abuse by either parent
The child's adjustment to their home, school, and community
The court will ultimately make a child custody determination based on the child's best interests.
Visitation and Parenting Plans
The parent who has been awarded physical custody of the child has the legal right to let the child reside with them. The non-custodial parent typically has visitation rights, which allow them time with their child according to a schedule set by the court.
Determining a visitation schedule can be difficult, especially if the parents live in different cities or states. The best interests of the child should always be taken into consideration when making any decisions about visitation. Parents should also try to come up with a schedule that is mutually convenient for both parties. If the parents cannot agree on a schedule, the court will make the decision for them.
What to Include in a Parenting Plan
A parenting plan outlines the roles and responsibilities of each parent. It should also include a visitation schedule. The visitation schedule should be detailed and specific, and it should take into account the child's age, school schedule, extracurricular activities, and any other factors that might affect their availability.
The parenting plan should also include provisions for holidays and special occasions. Parents should try to determine in advance how they will handle holidays such as Christmas, Thanksgiving, and Easter. They should also make arrangements for birthdays, Mother's Day, Father's Day, and any other special occasions.
Making decisions about child custody can be difficult. However, it is important to remember that the best interests of the child should always be the top priority.
Work with a Child Custody Attorney
If you have any questions about child custody in Ohio, or if you need help creating a parenting plan, know that the team at Friedman & Mirman Co., L.P.A. is here to help. We know how stressful child custody cases can be, which is why we are committed to meeting your needs and your child's needs at every step of the process.
Learn more about how we can help or schedule a consultation by calling (614) 412-3943 or by visiting our website.
.jpg)
.1).jpg)