How do Ohio courts decide custody?
The courts weigh the factors in ORC 3109.04 and make a decision based on the best interests of the child. Those factors include the wishes of the parents, the child’s wishes, the child’s interaction with family, the child’s adjustment to home and school and community, mental and physical health of the parties, abuse or neglect of a child, whether parents have abided by court orders, and more.
Does Ohio law favor mothers or fathers?
No, that’s not one of the factors under ORC 3109.04 when custody is being decided. However, when a child is born to an unmarried woman, ORC 3109.042 says the mother is the sole residential parent and legal custodian of the child until a court orders otherwise.
Can custody be changed later?
Sometimes. Pursuant to ORC 3109.04(E), custody may be modified under some circumstances.
What is shared parenting?
Shared parenting, which is governed by ORC 3109.04(G), is what many people would call “joint custody”. With shared parenting, the parents have equal and joint decision-making authority over the child for such matters as health and education.
Can a child choose where to live?
The child’s wishes is one of the factors to be considered under ORC 3109.04(F)(1)(b).