Some of the most contentious legal issues in the state involve child custody. When parents cannot agree on these arrangements, the court will make a decision. So, what do judges look for in child custody cases in Ohio? Judges in these cases will need to consider several factors, such as the best interests of the child. Let’s take a deeper look into these factors and how they could affect your case.
The Best Interests of the Child
Under the Ohio Revised Code, all of these decisions are made in the best interests of the child. The courts will not make any decisions that could harm or cause the child undue stress. These matters must address the child’s physical, emotional, and psychological well-being. Along with that, the courts will also take other factors into mind.
Parents’ Wishes
Another factor in these cases is the preferences of each parent, especially when it comes to custody and visitation arrangements. Both parents will need to make their wishes known and have a plan for how they will care and provide for their child. Plus, they should outline how they will share parenting time and responsibilities with the other person.
Relationship Between the Child and Parent
Sometimes, the child’s wishes may be taken into account, but that is not always the case. Instead, the court will look at the existing relationships between the child and each parent. Often, the judge will look at how each person was involved in the life of the child before the separation or divorce. During this time, the courts will examine:
- The emotional bond between parent and child
- The level of involvement in daily activities
- How well each parent understands the child’s needs
In most situations, the courts want to emphasize a strong, nurturing relationship with both parents. With that in mind, these cases usually will focus on joint custody or shared parenting decisions.
Current Home, School, and Community Life
The last thing that the courts want to do is disrupt the life of a child. For that reason, they will examine how well the child is adjusted to their home, school, and community. If a disruption can cause harm to the child’s stability, then the courts are usually reluctant to make drastic changes. The courts want to know that the child is thriving in their current school or has strong community ties. In turn, that could influence the court’s decision on custody.
The Parents’ Mental and Physical Health
Also, the courts will want to make sure that both parents are fit, both in a mental and physical sense. A judge will assess whether each parent is physically and emotionally capable of meeting the child’s needs. If a parent has issues with mental health, a history of substance abuse, or any physical limitations, then that could affect their ability to care for the child.
Domestic Abuse or Neglect History
Safety is always a priority in these decisions. A court will never place a minor with someone who already has a documented case of domestic violence or neglect. A parent with a history of abusive behavior may be denied custody or given limited, supervised visitation rights to protect the child.
Willing Cooperation of Both Parents
Under most circumstances, judges prefer arrangements where both parents can co-parent and make joint decisions regarding the child’s upbringing. The court wants to know that the parents will communicate and set aside personal differences to act in the child’s best interests.
Learn More About These Factors That Can Affect Your Case
What do judges look for in child custody cases in Ohio? All of these decisions center on the best interests of the child. In any case, the courts want parents to create an arrangement that supports the child’s stability, security, and happiness.
If you would like to learn more about child custody in Ohio, reach out to the legal team at Axelrod Law Office in Lake County, OH. Call our office at (440) 271-8126 or submit a contact form to schedule a free, confidential legal consultation.