Child custody

Cincinnati, Ohio, Child Custody Lawyers

At Drew & Ward, attorneys from our family law group are committed to helping our clients protect their children during divorce proceedings and other custody determination cases. We represent unmarried parents, grand parents, relatives as well as divorcing parents. An important element of that process is, whenever possible, negotiating a child custody (legally referred to as "allocation of parental rights") agreement through non-adversarial methods. The process of negotiation gives the parents an opportunity to establish a new co-parenting relationship.

However, our lawyers are also strong advocates for our clients, and are well-prepared to handle a child custody trial if that is the best way to preserve the parent-child relationship, assert our client's parental rights, or protect the child's interests.

“Many times in cases that involve children, an attorney may well do more than go to court. My role is to find reasonable, practical solutions to the problems my clients face as they transition through life-altering changes, and to advocate for my client when necessary. That means, if the matter cannot be resolved amicably, to fight for my client’s rights."

Attorney Nancy J. Frazier

If the parents fail to reach an agreement on custody and visitation a judge will determine the terms of custody, and issue a decree that is, in the judge's opinion, in the best interests of the child.

Joint custody, sole custody, physical and legal custody

Primary physical custody is typically assigned to the child's primary caregiver, while the other parent is given visitation privileges (parenting time). A custody arrangement that results in equal time with each parent (joint physical custody) is not typical, but also not uncommon.

Legal custody can determine the right to participate in decisions regarding major issues such as medical care, education, and religion, will be shared by parents in almost every case. A non-custodial parent still has full rights to communicate with teachers and doctors.

Our attorneys may recommend you consider the collaborative process. The court may order you to participate in mediation, order an independent evaluation by a social worker, or appoint a guardian ad litem. We advise clients in all those situations, and help parents repair and preserve relationships with their children following alienations, including those caused by the child's other parent.

Child support, post-decree modification

Child support is generally determined by Ohio state guidelines. However there may be exceptions in special situations. Terms of child custody and child support are subject to post-decree modification if there has been a significant change in circumstances since the decree was issued. Our attorneys assist parents in these areas, as well as in situations where a custodial parent is preparing to move out of state.

The early stages of child custody proceedings are critical. If you would like to arrange an initial consultation with a family law attorney, please contact our Cincinnati office. Our lawyers will work with you to define your goals, identify significant aspects of your unique situation, and explain your alternatives.

Our family law team: attorneys Frederic L. Goeddel, Michael D. McNeil, and Nancy J. Frazier and Richard G. Ward
paralegal Teri Denegar, and secretary Susan Annear

Related practice areas: divorce, family law, division of marital assets, prenuptial agreement, estate planning, wills and trusts, real estate, business law