Custody & Parenting Time

Decisions about where a child lives and how parents share time with their child are among the most important issues that arise in family law cases. Whether you are establishing custody for the first time, modifying an existing order, or resolving a disagreement about parenting time, you need clear guidance focused on your child’s well-being and practical next steps.

At The Law Practice of Evan E. Miller, LLC, we help parents and caregivers in Lucas County, Wood County, and surrounding Ohio communities address custody and parenting-time matters. I work with clients to protect parental rights, create workable schedules, and pursue arrangements that support stability for the child.

Custody and Parenting Time in Ohio

In Ohio, the court allocates parental rights and responsibilities, which include legal custody (decision-making authority) and physical custody (where the child lives). Parenting time is the schedule that allows the child to spend time with each parent. Courts make these decisions based on the best interest of the child, considering factors such as the child’s relationship with each parent, the parents’ ability to cooperate, the child’s adjustment to home and school, and any history of domestic violence or substance abuse.

Parents can reach agreements on custody and parenting time through mediation. When they cannot agree, the court decides after hearing evidence. Temporary orders are often entered while the case is pending so the child has a stable schedule in the meantime.

I help clients understand the legal standards, evaluate their options, and prepare the information needed to support a custody or parenting-time request.

Issues Commonly Addressed

Custody and parenting-time matters often involve:

• Initial allocation of parental rights and responsibilities

• Development of parenting-time schedules

• Shared parenting plans versus sole custody

• Modifications of existing custody or parenting-time orders

• Temporary orders while a case is pending

• Enforcement of parenting-time orders

• Relocation issues

• Related child support considerations

Every case is different. I focus on understanding your priorities, explaining the options available under Ohio law, and developing a strategy that addresses both the immediate issues and your child’s long-term stability.

How I Work With Clients

I provide careful preparation, straightforward communication, and practical advocacy. Whether the issues can be resolved by agreement or require court intervention, my goal is to help you make informed decisions and move through the process with clarity and a focus on what is best for your child.

If you are dealing with a custody or parenting-time matter in Lucas County, Wood County, or the surrounding area, contact The Law Practice of Evan E. Miller, LLC to schedule a consultation.