Columbus Attorney Managing Interstate Custody Challenges
Last updated on December 17, 2025
Dealing with child custody is difficult enough, but when a dispute crosses state lines, the complexity doubles. You face serious challenges concerning jurisdiction, relocation and enforcement. Whether your co-parent wants to move or you need to enforce an existing order, you need experienced counsel that understands multi-state family law.
You need strategic guidance to protect your parental rights, no matter where the other parent resides. Fortunately, attorney Gregg R. Lewis, ESQ., skillfully handles the complex web of interstate custody issues in Ohio. His knowledge is built upon the four decades of family law practice that Gregg R. Lewis, ESQ., brings to every client in the Columbus area.
Jurisdiction Under The UCCJEA
The first critical question in any interstate case is which state has the legal authority to make or change a custody order.
Ohio, along with almost every other state, operates under the Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction and Enforcement Act (UCCJEA). The UCCJEA prevents multiple states from issuing competing custody orders and clarifies how courts communicate.
Under the UCCJEA, the state that has jurisdiction is typically the child’s “home state.” This refers to the state where the child has lived with a parent for at least six consecutive months. This residency must be continuous and just right before you file the case. If Ohio is the child’s home state, the Franklin County Court of Common Pleas is where you must file your case.
Relocation And Enforcement Issues
Relocation is a common point of conflict. If a parent with custody wants to move a child out of Ohio, the parent who is staying has the right to object. The court will closely examine the proposed move to determine if it is in the child’s best interest. They will consider factors such as the distance, the child’s ties to Ohio and the reason for the move.
Beyond relocation disputes, enforcing an existing order across state lines can also be challenging. Fortunately, if you hold a valid Ohio custody order, the UCCJEA allows you to register and enforce that order in another state where the other parent or child now resides.
As your interstate custody lawyer, Gregg R. Lewis, ESQ., we work swiftly to keep your rights and parenting time respected across state lines.
Get Experienced Guidance On Your Interstate Case
Do not let state lines threaten your relationship with your child after a divorce. Our firm has the knowledge required to handle your complex, multi-state custody matter.
Schedule a free initial consultation with Gregg R. Lewis, ESQ., to discuss your interstate custody concerns in Ohio. Call us today at 614-721-6175 or send us an email to get started.