Ohio courts focus on the “best interests of the child” standard. Judges evaluate each parent’s ability to provide stability, emotional support, and a safe environment. They assess factors like the child’s relationships with both parents, their physical and mental health, work schedules, and each parent’s willingness to promote the child’s connection with the other parent. The court also considers the child’s adjustment to home, school, and the community.
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Custody & Parenting
Cleveland Custody Attorneys
Your children are the center of your life, and you would do anything to protect them from harm. Unfortunately, the best interests of children are often pushed aside when parents divorce. It is easy to get caught up in emotions and lash out. Sometimes, parents’ well-intentioned but misguided actions actually harm their children in the long run.
At Kvale Antonelli & Raj, we take a holistic and compassionate approach to divorce and custody matters. Our overarching philosophy is to preserve family relationships, even in custody litigation. You and your spouse will lead separate lives, but you will continue parenting together. We will help you restructure your family, not destroy it.
The New Norm: Shared Parenting
Not so long ago, the standard model awarded custody to mothers and gave fathers visitation every other weekend. Now, the courts begin with the presumption that both parents will be actively involved in raising children. Shared parenting is the new standard, including 50-50 arrangements. This requires parents to deal with each other almost daily.
Our Cleveland family law attorneys represent parents in negotiation, mediation and litigation of all facets of child custody. We have found that collaborative divorce is especially suited to resolving these issues by creating an environment of trust and respect and eliminating the possibility of a costly and bitter courtroom battle.
We address all facets of the parenting dynamic, including:
- Contested custody proceedings
- Negotiated custody arrangements
- Possession of the marital residence
- Parenting plans (schedules, exchanges, holidays, extracurriculars)
- Relocation by one parent
- Modifications of custody or parenting time
- Emergency petitions for sole custody
Forward-Thinking Solutions
Parents do not always agree on the “best interests of the child.” Our lawyers offer an objective perspective to help parents find a middle ground and model and maintain healthy communication and cooperation.
Arrange a consultation by calling or contacting us online. We practice in Cuyahoga County and surrounding counties of Northeast Ohio.
FAQs About Child Custody in Ohio
Do mothers always get custody?
No, Ohio law doesn’t favor mothers over fathers. Courts determine custody arrangements based on what will be best for your child, not gender. Both parents have the same legal rights to request custody, and judges evaluate each case based on its specific circumstances. Shared parenting is increasingly becoming the norm.
What should a parenting plan include?
Your parenting plan should detail custody arrangements, visitation schedules, holiday and vacation time, decision-making responsibilities for education and healthcare, and communication guidelines. Include provisions for transportation, extracurricular activities, and how you’ll handle future disagreements. A comprehensive plan reduces confusion and protects your child’s interests.
What can I do if my ex is alienating me from my child?
Document instances of parental alienation, maintain consistent contact attempts, and keep records of missed visits or communications. Contact your attorney immediately to discuss your legal options, which may include requesting court intervention or modifications to custody arrangements. Continue showing love and support for your child while addressing the situation through proper legal channels.
Can my child choose which parent to live with?
Ohio courts consider a child’s wishes, but age and maturity matter significantly. While there’s no specific age when a child can choose, judges give more weight to the preferences of children 12 and older. The court ultimately decides what’s in the child’s best interests, regardless of their stated preference.
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To schedule a consultation with one of our Cleveland family law attorneys,
call 216-861-2222 or complete our online form.
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