Child Custody Attorney in Columbus, Ohio

There are so many layers to divorce. There is the emotional toll of making the decision to separate, there is the actual divorce, and then there is navigating the separation of assets, child custody arrangements, and child support. Under Ohio law, the issues of child custody, support, and care are primarily focused on the best interests of the children.

Navigating the aspects of family law as it pertains to child custody in Ohio requires professional legal counsel dedicated to child custody. At The Law Offices of Kenneth R. Kline LLC, our child custody attorney has over 20 years of experience exclusively in family law and can help you work towards a positive resolution for you and more importantly, your children.

Parenting orders, or child custody orders, are one of the most important steps in the divorce process for parents of minors. The Ohio court system is tasked with ruling on the allocation of parental rights and responsibilities between both divorcing parties.

Throughout the divorce process, parenting orders will state who has residential and legal custody of the children after the divorce. It also includes three main areas of responsibility:

1. Decision-making – The court must determine which parent has the authority to make day-to-day decisions (discipline, daily routines, etc.) as well as major decisions (school, religion, medical care, etc.). In some cases, a judge can order that all major decisions must be discussed by both parents.
2. Parenting time responsibilities – The court must clearly define the child’s schedule and contact agreements with caregivers. This can include transportation plans, holiday schedules, and travel expectations.
3. Child support – The court must decide on any child support agreements based on what is in the best interest of the child.

To decide on custody arrangements in Ohio, the court considers each parent’s ability to care for the child. Just some of the factors they use to determine parenting orders include their:

• Ability to care for their children
• Ability to follow court mandates
• Mental and physical health
• Overall character
• Family relations
• Cooperation with the other party in the divorce
• History of substance abuse or criminal record

Working with a board certified child custody attorney who can hold your hand during the allocation of parental responsibility will make the process less emotional and more efficient. At The Law Offices of Kenneth R. Kline LLC, our board certified child custody lawyer will evaluate your unique circumstances to help manage expectations surrounding parenting orders.

Every custody case is unique. The length of time you spend in court deciding on the issues surrounding the allocation of parental responsibilities depends on how much there is to discuss and if any professional evaluations are needed.

When it comes to something as complex and critical as the custody arrangement with your children, you need a child custody lawyer that has years of experience in family law and who can help you navigate both the emotional and legal aspects of parenting orders.

At The Law Offices of Kenneth R. Kline LLC, we know your goal is to move efficiently through court proceedings while also doing what is right for your children. Working exclusively in family law since 2001 has given our board certified child custody attorney a unique perspective and a breadth of knowledge when it comes to Ohio family law. Lean on our expertise to help you come out the other side of your divorce hopeful for the future.

Learn More about the Allocation of Parental Responsibility From Our Columbus, Ohio Child Custody Attorney

The Law Offices of Kenneth R. Kline is located in Columbus, Ohio, and serves families in and around Delaware, Grove City, Newark, Reynoldsburg, Westerville, Upper Arlington, and Delaware, Licking, Madison and Franklin Counties.  We are committed to doing what is right for our clients and helping them navigate this difficult time in their life.  Schedule a risk-free consultation with our Ohio State Bar Association board certified child custody attorney.

Frequently Asked Questions About Child Custody in Columbus, Ohio

Q1: What factors does the Ohio court consider when determining child custody?

A: Ohio courts focus on the best interests of the child when determining custody. Factors include each parent’s ability to provide a stable home, the child’s relationship with each parent, mental and physical health, any history of substance abuse or domestic violence, whether or not a parent intends to relocate out of state and each parent’s willingness to support a positive relationship with the other parent. An experienced family law attorney can help you present your case effectively to protect your parental rights.

Q2: What is the difference between legal custody and shared parenting?

A: In Ohio, legal custody refers to which parent has the authority to make important decisions about the child’s upbringing—such as education, healthcare, and religion.  If one parent has legal custody, the other parent has parenting time but no decision making authority.  Shared parenting means the parents are supposed to discuss all major decisions regarding the children and agree on them.  When parents are shared parents, one of the parents has to be designated as the residential parent for school placement.  This designation is the home from which the child’s school is determined.  Parenting time is how much time the children spend with each parent. 

Q3: If both parents agree on a custody arrangement, do we still need court approval?

A: Yes. Even if parents reach an agreement on custody and parenting time, it must be submitted to and approved by the court to become legally enforceable. A judge will review the agreement to ensure it protects the child’s best interests. Your child custody attorney can help you finalize and file the necessary paperwork to make your agreement official.

Q4: What should I look for in a child custody attorney?

A: When choosing a custody attorney, look for someone with extensive experience in Ohio family law, knowledge of local courts, and a history of competently handling custody, visitation, shared parenting and support matters successfully. At the Law Offices of Kenneth R. Kline, LLC, we focus on helping parents navigate child custody issues with compassion, skill, and a commitment to achieving the best outcome for you and your child.