Columbus Child Custody Attorneys

Protecting Your Rights & Upholding Your Child’s Best Interests with Custody & Shared Parenting Plans

A child custody dispute is perhaps the most significant, and painful, conflict that occurs during a divorce . This is why our team at Friedman & Mirman Co., L.P.A. works relentlessly to make sure that you and your child’s preferences and requirements are met during the divorce process. Parenting issues can become quite complicated, and it is crucial to retain experienced legal counsel.

Call us today at (614) 412-3943 to get responsive support from our family law attorneys on any topic about custody or shared parenting.

What is Shared Parenting?

In the state of Ohio, joint custody goes by the term “shared parenting,” which means that both parents are given rights and responsibilities regarding their children. Those rights and responsibilities are contained in a shared parenting plan. Contrary to common misconceptions, shared parenting does not simply mean that a child will spend half the time living with one parent and half the time living with the other parent. Instead, this option means that before any major choice is made on the child’s behalf, the parents must come to a decision together.

In shared parenting, whether in determining a child’s participation in school, activities, and social, cultural or religious events, neither parent can make decisions without consulting the other parent. Both parents are urged to communicate peacefully with their former partner and focus on what is best for their child.

How is Child Custody Determined in Ohio?

There are times when the parents can’t agree on a shared parenting plan and end up in court. There are many factors the court will consider, and these cases are very fact-specific.

Some of the factors involved in custody decisions include:

• Any history of domestic violence or child abuse
• The ability of each parent to cooperate and to encourage a loving relationship between the child and the other parent
• The child’s existing relationships and interactions with his or her parents, siblings and extended family members
• How close the parents live to each other

How to Get Full Custody in Ohio

If you are seeking full custody of your children in Ohio, it is important to understand the legal process and be prepared with the necessary documents. In most cases, Ohio courts will grant the mother physical and legal custody unless significant factors warrant a change. Factors such as parental negligent conduct, criminal activity, or abuse can all be considered. To get full physical and legal custody in Ohio, parents should create a parenting plan that outlines the roles and responsibilities of each parent regarding the child’s care, education, medical decisions, and other activities. Additionally, parents must consent to modifications or changes in the current custody arrangement.

The court may require further evidence and information if parents cannot agree. For example, the court might request a psychological evaluation of each parent or pursue discovery requests to obtain additional documents or testimonies. It is also important that you remain aware of your rights and the potential risks that could arise in a child custody dispute. Working with an experienced family law attorney is essential to ensure that your parental rights are represented and protected at all stages of the process in Ohio.

How Can a Child Support Attorney Help Me?

A child support attorney can provide valuable assistance in various aspects of child support matters, ensuring that your rights and the best interests of your child are protected.

Here's how a child support attorney can help you:

• Understanding Child Support Laws: Child support laws can be complex and vary from state to state. An attorney specializes in family law and is well-versed in the specific regulations in your jurisdiction. They can explain the applicable laws, guidelines, and procedures to you.
• Legal Representation: An attorney can represent you in court, advocating for your interests during child support hearings or legal proceedings. They will present your case, cross-examine witnesses, and argue on your behalf.
• Mediation and Negotiation: Child support attorneys can facilitate negotiations and mediation between parents to reach an agreement on child support terms, which can often be a more amicable and efficient solution.
• Understanding Tax Implications: Child support can have tax implications, and an attorney can provide guidance on how child support payments may affect your tax situation.
• Complex Cases: In cases involving high income, complex financial assets, or shared custody arrangements, an attorney can address the intricacies of child support calculations and ensure that the child's best interests are met.
• Legal Guidance: Throughout the process, a child support attorney can provide you with legal advice and help you make informed decisions that align with your objectives and those of your child.
• Document Preparation: Attorneys will draft and review legal documents related to child support, ensuring that they are accurate, compliant with the law, and protect your rights.

In child support matters, having a qualified attorney by your side can make a significant difference in achieving a fair and equitable resolution. They can guide you through the legal process, protect your interests, and help you ensure that your child receives the financial support they need.

Tactful Negotiation

Whether you have decided to opt for shared parenting or you are seeking sole custody it is important to have reliable advocacy from lawyers you can trust to represent the best interest of your family. You need experienced legal counsel to help you, as custody litigation is complicated. Our child custody and shared parenting attorneys in Columbus stand ready to serve you with tactful negotiating techniques that will help avoid draining, stressful conflicts.

Contact us now by completing our online form or calling (614) 412-3943 so our determined team at Friedman & Mirman Co., L.P.A. can support all of your custody needs.