Hills and Dales Child Custody Attorneys

Like many other US states, Ohio has upgraded terminology regarding the care and well-being of minor children when going through a divorce. The Ohio child custody statute now uses the term allocation of parental rights and responsibilities to cover how parents make important decisions regarding how to raise the child. Still, the concept covers many of the same topics you are familiar with about child custody. The courts prefer an arrangement for shared parenting, so the child benefits from a relationship with both parents.

However, there are many additional details when you are going through a real-life child custody case. Plus, there are emotional implications when you think that your bond with your child could be at risk. Fortunately, you can trust Fout Law Office, LLC to protect your rights and support your legal needs. Our team has significant experience with these cases, so please contact our Hills and Dales child custody attorneys to schedule a case assessment. Some background is also useful.

Overview of Ohio Child Custody

Both parents have rights and responsibilities with respect to minor children, even if they do not share an intact relationship. Custody issues are central in a divorce case, as well as in paternity suits and other legal proceedings affecting children.

Allocation of parental responsibilities includes making decisions related to: 

• Education, tutoring, and homeschooling;
• Health care, including treatment from dentists and mental health professionals;
• Extracurricular activities, sports, recreation, and lessons;
• Participation in religion;
• Travel, entertainment, and online time; and,
• Many other areas.

One key aspect of child custody is where the child lives, and that parent has residential custody. However, decision-making will still be equal in a co-parenting situation. The non-residential parent will have the right to exercise visitation and parenting time and will usually pay child support.

Guiding You With Options for Child Custody

The most important point with allocating parental responsibilities is the child’s best interests, a set of factors a court must review before making custody decisions. They cover the child’s health, safety, security, and well-being, and the child’s best interests are paramount.

However, there are multiple ways to address custody, and not all of them involve going to court. Our Stark County child custody lawyers at Fout Law Office, LLC will explain the benefits of agreements and participating in mediation. You can count on our team to:

• Consult with you about goals for child custody;
• Gather and review all evidence;
• Discuss settlement options with your ex’s lawyer in an attempt to negotiate an agreement;
• Attend mediation, in which you and your ex have conversations with a trained mediator to try to get closer to an agreement; and,
• Represent you at a contested hearing if you cannot resolve all disputes.

Schedule a Consultation with Our Hills and Dales Child Custody Attorneys 

A summary of the basics is helpful, but Fout Law Office, LLC can provide specific information about the allocation of parental rights and responsibilities. To schedule a consultation with a member of our team, please contact our offices in North Canton, OH. An Ohio divorce lawyer will offer personalized details to help you make informed decisions.