Ohio couples who file for divorce usually have to work through many complex issues, especially when they have children together. Custody, child support and parenting time are just a few of the issues that divorcing parents need to discuss. If a couple is unable to reach an agreement with each other, a state court may need to finalize the terms of the divorce.
The Ohio State Bar Association states that there are two possible custodial arrangements for divorced Ohio parents. If the court awards one parent sole custody, he or she is completely responsible for the child’s welfare and makes decisions about education, medical care and extracurricular activities. When the divorce agreement stipulates shared parenting, childrearing decisions are not left up to one individual. The law gives both parents the right to make decisions about the child’s welfare. In this situation, the court must approve a schedule that gives parenting time to each individual. In amicable divorce cases, parents may be able to work together to create a fair parenting plan for the court to approve.
Individuals may get information and suggestions about parenting plans from the Supreme Court of Ohio. The available guidebook provides a list of factors for parents to consider when creating a parenting plan. Individuals may also find examples of parenting time schedules for children in different age groups. For example, the Ohio Supreme Court suggests that babies and toddlers may form stronger bonds when both parents have a chance to be with the child several times throughout the week. Older children may prefer to spend longer periods of time with each parent, switching off between houses every week. Good communication and thorough planning may help reduce conflict in a shared parenting arrangement and provide the best results for both parents and children.