Anyone seeking custody of a child in Ohio needs to understand how Ohio courts make child custody decisions. The process begins when one or both parents file a motion and a plan for custody of a child or children.
Typically, if the motion is part of, or the result of, a divorce, it is filed in a Ohio Domestic Relations Court. If the custody dispute is between unmarried parents, the motion is filed in an Ohio Juvenile Court. However, these are just general rules and the requirements can vary from county to county. An Ohio child custody lawyer can help the parents file the motion correctly.
If the parents agree, they may file a motion and plan together. The court will review this plan to see if it is in the best interests of the child or children. If it is, the court will approve it. If it is not, the court will tell the parents what needs to be changed and ask them to resubmit it.
If the parents do not agree, they will file separate motions and plans. The court will review them both and decide which is in the best interests of the child. Even the one determined to be best may require changes before the court approves it.
An experienced custody attorney can make sure that you are in the best position to advocate for the best interest of your child or children.