Children are the center of most parents’ lives. They are the source of joy, pride and unconditional love. Therefore, when a divorce or legal separation occurs, deciding how time with children will be shared can be extremely emotional. A child custody lawyer in Cincinnati Ohio is an advocate who helps you navigate this process. A child custody attorney can help you establish a parenting plan and/or time-sharing agreement that satisfies your unique needs and the best interests of your children.
Child custody decisions are guided by the concept of “best interest of the child.” This overarching criterion requires the court to take a thorough look at many aspects of your life and the potential custodial arrangements. Some of these considerations include: the wishes of your spouse and/or your child (if they are mature enough to express them); the level of stability in your lifestyle, including housing, employment, financial security, and the ability to provide a loving and nurturing environment; your relationship with your child’s other parent or siblings; any confirmed history of domestic violence; and the capacity of both parties to honor and facilitate visitation and companionship rights for the other.
If you and your spouse are unable to agree on custody arrangements, a judge will make this decision for you. In such cases, the judge may grant joint legal custody with both parents or sole physical custody to one party. In the case of shared custody, both parties are required to prepare a parenting plan for the court. This plan will outline how you and your spouse envision making decisions for the children. The plan must also address the custody schedule for each party.
In some situations, it is necessary to seek emergency temporary custody of a child. This can be due to a variety of reasons, such as a dangerous living situation for the child or suspected abuse by one parent. A qualified child custody attorney can help you obtain emergency temporary custody in a timely fashion.
The attorneys at Bailey & Gunderson Co., L.P.A, assist clients with a wide range of family law issues, including dissolution, custody and visitation agreements, and property division. The firm is located in Cincinnati and assists individuals throughout the area. In addition to family law cases, the firm provides guidance on chapters 7 and 13 bankruptcies and wills and estate administration. Call the firm at 513-682-3266 to schedule a consultation with a lawyer.
