Child custody is one of the most common and important issues for individuals going through divorce in Ohio, and understandably so. However, child custody is complicated and can often become a fight for power between spouses. In fact, some spouses may fight fiercely to gain custody only to avoid paying child support. In these situations, the Cleveland divorce lawyers at Patituce & Associates work aggressively to expose the other party and to protect our clients and their children.
In Ohio, Judges award custody based on several factors, the most important of which is the “best interest” of the child. Some ways to determine “best interest” of the child include the following:
- Who is the primary care-taker? Who has raised the child?
- Has abuse taken place and by whom?
- Are the parent(s) dependent on drugs and/or alcohol?
- What is the earning potential of the parents?
- What is the stability of the homes of the parents? Can one parent provide more stability than the other?
- Has either parent ever lost custody of a child in the past?
Many other factors may play a role in determining child custody in Cleveland and Ohio. In order to best protect the interest of the child, courts may also assign a “Guardian ad Litem,” who is a non-affiliated volunteer who will work to protect the best interest of the child in question. At Cleveland Divorce Lawyers, we have extensive experience working with our clients with child custody issues.
Since every case is different, we urge you to give us a call for a FREE CONSULTATION regarding your specific case. We will be happy to review your situation with you and make recommendations based on your needs: (216) 309-1199.