As a parent in Ohio, you will have to decide how you are going to handle matters of child custody when getting a divorce. There are two main options: sole custody, and joint custody. Which is best for you? That depends on your own unique situation. Today, we’ll take a look at joint custody.
FindLaw states that joint custody is a situation in which both parents share equal responsibility in raising the child. Note that this doesn’t necessarily mean the child spends their time split perfectly evenly between both parents. In some cases, it might, but this may cause too much of a disruption to their life and may thus be determined not in the best interest of the child.
However, joint legal custody can apply where joint physical custody does not. This means that both parents have an equal say in how their child is raised. This can include:
- The religion they are raised with
- Medical choices and healthcare
- Which school they will be sent to
- Extracurricular activity participation
In essence, parents who hold joint legal custody will still be able to parent their child as if they were still married. Both will have equal say, and both of their decisions will have equal weight. This is considered to be the option that is generally better for the child, as having both parents engaged in their life can help them maintain a sense of normalcy.
If you and your spouse are working through a divorce and trying to figure out child custody, consider speaking to an experienced attorney. They can help guide you in the decision-making process so you can find the option that works best for you.