Columbus Child Custody Attorney Helping Your Family Reach Their Legal Goals
Last updated on December 23, 2024
Where will my children live? Will they live with me? Will they live with my ex? How often will I be able to see my children? Will they be happy with this arrangement?
The questions that you have as a parent who is going through a divorce can be complex and worrisome. Every parent cares deeply about what happens to his or her child and how the children will be affected by the divorce. Ohio state courts place a high priority on providing custody and support decrees that protect the best interests of the child and preserve the child-parent relationship.
Attorney Laura Helmbrecht provides skilled guidance through these negotiations and proceedings, advocating for your parental rights and the relationship you have with your child. She will present you with all available options and alternatives, allowing you to make informed decisions that are best for your family.
If you are facing child custody proceedings, call her Columbus-based law firm today for a consultation: 614-929-3164.
Child Custody Decisions — Protecting Your Parental Rights
During divorce, the court will decide how parental rights and responsibilities will be divided between the parents. One parent will be named the residential or custodial parent with legal custody and primary decision-making power. The other parent will be granted visitation rights, unless there are extreme circumstances that would make it unsafe for the child to see his or her parent.
The two parties will be given a shared parenting plan. While they can provide input for the judge, it is ultimately up to the court to decide how time will be divided. In shared parenting situations, both parents are granted equal parenting rights. This plan will decide vacation time, holidays, health care, expenses, education, child care expenses, tax exemption credits and child support.
The time between the two parents may not be exactly equal, but the court places a high priority on granting both parents as much time as possible with the children. This has been found to be in the best interests of the child.
The custody agreement impacts the outcome of the child support agreement. If the supporting parent spends more time with the child, he or she pays less in child support, generally. This is based on a formula and doesn’t deviate from the standard, unless there are extreme situations.
Child Custody And Support For Unmarried Couples
If a married couple divorces, the husband is the presumed father of the children and will automatically be factored into custody and support agreements. If the couple is unmarried, however, the father must be proven to be the father through paternity testing. After this has been established, the court will offer him parental rights. He will also be obligated to pay child support, however.
FAQ: Ohio Child Custody
Child custody is one of the most emotionally challenging aspects of a divorce and it is natural to have many questions and concerns. The answers to these questions parents in Ohio ask can offer you an understanding of state custody laws and clarity about your unique circumstances.
What factors do Ohio courts consider when determining child custody arrangements?
Ohio courts prioritize the best interests of the child when making child custody decisions. They consider several factors, including:
- Wishes of the child’s parents and the child (if age-appropriate)
- Child’s adjustment to home, school, and community
- Mental and physical health of all parties
- Child’s relationships with parents, siblings, and others
- Each parent’s ability to foster a continuing relationship with the other parent
Family courts also look at any history of domestic violence, child abuse or substance abuse.
What is the difference between legal custody and physical custody in Ohio?
Legal custody gives parents the right to make important decisions about the child’s upbringing, including education, health care and religious matters. Physical custody refers to where and with which parent the child will primarily reside. In Ohio, parents can share legal and physical custody or one parent can have sole legal or physical custody.
What is a shared parenting plan, and how is it implemented in Ohio?
It is a comprehensive arrangement outlining how the parents are to share responsibilities and make decisions for the child, regardless of residency. The plan should also clearly detail how time with the child is shared between parents. It must be approved by the family court judge to help ensure it serves the child’s best interests.
Can grandparents or other relatives seek custody or visitation rights in Ohio?
Yes, in certain circumstances, grandparents or other relatives can pursue custody or visitation rights. Ohio courts may grant these rights if they believe it is in the best interests of the child.
Factors courts consider include the existing relationship between the child and the relative, the child’s adjustment to their current living situation and the relative’s ability to provide a stable and supportive environment.
A Lawyer Is Waiting To Talk To You
Call for a consultation with Laura Helmbrecht: 614-929-3164 or contact us online.