A Cleveland And Independence Law Firm
Serving Cuyahoga County
And Surrounding Areas
A Cleveland And Independence Law Firm Serving Cuyahoga County And Surrounding Areas

Understanding Child Custody In Ohio

Family law practices and terms are always evolving. In few places is this more evident than when it comes to the relationship between parents and children. If you are going through a divorce or breakup (if you’ve never been married to your co-parent), it is important to understand how Ohio statutes and courts address custody issues.

Below, we’ve provided some basic information. But there is no substitute for case-specific advice. When you are ready to discuss your legal options with an attorney, please contact our firm.

Marital Status Still Makes A Difference

The social taboos about unmarried cohabitation and parenthood may be gone, but the distinction is still important in matters of custody. For starters, custody cases are heard in two different settings. For married parents getting a divorce, cases are heard in domestic relations court. For unmarried parents, cases go before a juvenile court.

Terminology also differs. Child custody is used in juvenile court cases, while custody stemming from a divorce is known as allocation of parental rights and responsibilities.

Finally, marital status impacts paternity rights. In Ohio, an unmarried mother who gives birth to a child is considered the legal custodian and sole residential parent until or unless the court makes other determinations. Unmarried fathers must petition for parental rights, even if paternity is not in dispute.

Regardless of your marital status, you need the help of an experienced attorney when seeking custody of your child or children. We are proud to help parents preserve and protect their relationship with their children, and we offer representation in all custody-related matters, including paternity actions.

Balance Of Time And Other Considerations

Generally speaking, Ohio courts like to keep both parents involved in their children’s lives whenever possible. The time allocated to each parent, however, will not necessarily be equal. Courts are required to make custody decisions in the best interests of children and will examine all relevant factors in making those determinations.

When you contact our firm, we will work tirelessly to help preserve your relationship with your children and your continued active involvement in their daily lives.

Contact The Firm For Answers To Your Child Custody Questions

With offices in Cleveland and Independence, Sunny M. Simon, Attorney at Law, serves clients in Cuyahoga County and surrounding areas. To arrange a consultation with a lawyer who really listens, call us at 216-815-3606 or send us an email.