Maple Heights Child Custody Attorney
During divorce proceedings, one topic that will be discussed is who gets custody of the children. Your children will also find themselves thrown into the unknown when their parents call for a divorce. Besides not knowing where they will stay once the divorce is over, there is also the question of who will have custody of them.
Depending on their circumstances and relationship with the children, either parent may fight for custody. In some cases, they may even question why the other party is given custody and appeal for its modification. The arguments can get heated, and the court may get involved if the custody arrangement does not represent your child’s best interests.
Whether you seek custody or wish to modify your existing child custody arrangements, you can trust Davis and Associates Attorneys at Law’s excellent lawyers to assist you. We will review your case carefully to identify how we can create the ideal child custody setup for you and your children and help you get the arrangement enforced or modified if needed. Your assigned Maple Heights child custody lawyer will also guide you throughout the case so you don’t get overwhelmed by the entire legal process.
Call Davis and Associates Attorneys at Law at (216) 284-0714 for a Free Legal Consultation with a Maple Heights Child Custody lawyer.
Understanding Child Custody in Ohio
Ohio does not use the term “child custody” when determining parental responsibilities after a divorce is finalized. Instead, the state uses “parental rights” and “parenting time” to define these arrangements:
- Parental rights or legal custody refer to the parents’ rights to make key decisions for their children, such as education, religion, and medical care.
- Parenting time or physical custody refers to the parent who will take care of the child most of the time. These parents are also considered residential parents. Meanwhile, the other parent may be granted visitation rights or time to visit the child.
Ohio courts typically favor shared or joint custody in child custody cases. In shared parenting, both parents are given decision-making rights and parenting time. However, this does not mean they are given equal decision-making rights and parenting time. The court will consider whether the arrangement serves the child’s best interests. In some cases, sole or full custody may be ordered.
Your assigned Maple Heights child custody lawyer will explain the state’s child custody laws and your rights as a parent. Once your divorce is finalized, they will also explain how sole, joint, or shared custody would look.
Factors Considered in a Child Custody Case
Ohio courts consider the child’s best interests when deciding upon the parental rights and responsibilities in every child custody case they handle. To determine what is in the child’s best interests, several factors are taken into consideration, such as:
- The parents’ interests
- The child’s wishes or preferences
- The child’s relationship with either parent, siblings, relatives, and others
- The child’s ability to adjust to home, community, and school
- All parties’ mental and physical health
- The parents’ willingness to abide by the court-approved arrangement
- Whether there are missed child support payments
- Either parents’ history of abuse or neglect
- Whether there is an issue regarding a parent being denied parenting time
- Out-of-state relocation
Our experienced Maple Heights child custody lawyers at Davis and Associates Attorneys at Law can help you understand the nature of each type of custody and identify ways to create an arrangement that protects your child’s and your own interests.
Child Custody Modification and Enforcement
When a child custody arrangement is ordered, it can still be modified to suit new circumstances for either the parent or the children. Either parent can request a modification from the court, which will then assess whether the request can be approved.
A modified parenting plan must be provided during the court’s assessment and meet the child’s best interests. The court may also step in if either parent does not recognize the agreed-upon child support arrangement and enforce it.
You can trust Davis and Associates Attorneys at Law’s talented and experienced legal team to help you through the enforcement and modification process for your custody case. We will do our best to fight for your child’s best interests and ensure that all parties respect the arrangement. You can also count on us to assist with modification requests so your child doesn’t need to worry.
Why Choose Davis and Associates Attorneys at Law For Your Child Custody Case
Our Maple Heights, OH family law firm is committed not just to providing legal representation but also to offering a dedicated and compassionate advocate. We ensure your rights are upheld and your child’s well-being is protected. Our services are personalized to address your unique legal challenges, managing them carefully to prevent issues from escalating or becoming public.
We recognize that legal services can be expensive, so we offer flexible payment options, even for complex cases. If you have other family legal issues, let us know, and we’ll do our best to work with you to achieve the outcome you desire.
Contact Us For a Free Consultation
Custody battles can be daunting if you’re not familiar with the legal process and the laws involved.
Contact Davis and Associates Attorneys at Law anytime for the right legal assistance with your concerns. We’ll be here to provide the support you need and help you fight for the best possible outcome, no matter how challenging the case may be.
Call Davis and Associates Attorneys at Law at (216) 284-0714 for a Free Legal Consultation with a Maple Heights Child Custody lawyer.