A divorce is an unpleasant event for all involved. Add kids to the mix and things can get even more complicated. Your privileges as a parent can change drastically during the proceedings. That’s why—even in the most amicable of separations—it’s important to be aware of the parental rights laws that apply. Here, the divorce law attorneys of Don Roberts Law Offices in Hilliard, OH, provide a basic outline on what you need to know.

Until the court issues any custody order, both parents maintain equal rights and responsibilities when it comes to the care of the children. Eventually, a judge will issue an order regarding legal and physical custody. Legal custody includes decisions about things like the child’s education, medical care, and religious instruction. Physical custody refers to the responsibility to provide a safe environment for the child, from adequate housing to safe transportation.

Such a custody order may be temporary or permanent. Many states allow the parents to attend a preliminary hearing in the early stages of the divorce in order to establish a temporary custody order. Often, parents will present a “parenting plan” to the court. This addresses details like child support, child custody, and visitation. If the judge feels this plan is not in the child’s best interests, they may issue an order contrary to what is presented.

If parents are unable to come to an agreement regarding child custody during the divorce proceedings, the court will make a decision based on the child’s best interests. According to parental rights laws, physical and legal custody can be sole or joint. If only one parent—known as the custodial parent—gets custody, then the other usually is granted visitation rights.

Divorce proceedings and parental rights laws are complicated. If you’re facing a legal separation, secure the help of a divorce attorney. For help in Franklin County, look to Don Roberts Law Offices. Find out more about their services online; for an appointment, call (614) 777-4500.  

_{Don Roberts Law Offices is based in Columbus, Ohio, but serves clients throughout the State of Ohio. Our office in Hilliard, Ohio is convenient to Dublin, New Jefferson, Bexley, Westerville, New Albany, Hilliard, Grove City, Reynoldsburg, Gahanna, and other Franklin County municipalities. Our office is located in central Ohio and is just a short drive to/from anywhere in Ohio.  Attorney Advertising. This website is designed for general information only and should not be construed to be formal legal advice nor the formation of a lawyer/client relationship.  See our profile at Avvo.com or Martindale.com.}