Resolving Difficult Child Custody Issues

Issues surrounding child custody are often the most contentious aspect of any divorce proceeding. It is important to seek help from a lawyer who can help you navigate through these matters with care and understanding. At Helmes Legal Services, we have been helping people resolve difficult child custody matters in Ohio since 1999. We are committed to exploring your options while setting realistic expectations, keeping the best interests of your children at the forefront at all times. To schedule an initial consultation, call our law office in Batavia at 513-732-0086.

Sole Custody v. Shared Parenting

Many people are misinformed when it comes to what Sole Custody means and what Shared Parenting means. Common misconceptions are that Shared Parenting means equal time and no child support while Sole Custody means that the non-custodial parent has “lost their rights”.  Neither of these beliefs are accurate.

Sole Custody and Shared Parenting refer exclusively to the decision-making process regarding the big decisions in the care of the children (religion, academics, healthcare and discipline, for example). Thus, one parent can have sole custody and the non-custodial parent can still have equal parenting time with the children.

Ohio Courts default to shared parenting because it is believed that children thrive when they have input from both parents. However, if a party can show that the parents engage in a tremendous amount of conflict and/or there has been domestic violence and/or substance abuse, sole custody is normally awarded to the parent that the court feels can provide that which is in the children’s best interest.

The Best Interests Of The Child

The law requires the court to make custody determinations that are in the best interests of the child. The court applies a number of different factors when making this determination and its notion of what is in the best interests of your child may be wildly different than yours. It is our job to provide a steady hand to guide you through this process, bearing in mind that the court will attempt to reach a resolution that enables both parents to have some form of relationship with their child.

Contact Our Family Law Attorney To Learn More

If you are going through a divorce or need any type of assistance with a child custody matter, speak with us. Call us at 513-732-0086 or contact us online to schedule an initial consultation.