Child Custody

Lucas County Child Custody Lawyer

Helping Clients Resolve Custody Disputes in Ohio

One of the most difficult and emotional decisions to make during the divorce process is where your children will live. When parents cannot agree on custody arrangements, the court will step in and make the decision for the family.

At Smith & Smith Law Office, LLC, our Lucas County child custody lawyers are dedicated to guiding clients through tough times and helping them find the best solutions for their families.

Are you involved in a custody dispute? Call Smith & Smith Law Office, LLC today at (419) 842-4629 to discuss your case with an experienced Lucas County child custody attorney. 

What are the Types of Child Custody in Ohio?

Every state has its own laws, regulations, and standards for determining child custody. Ohio recognizes two types of custody: physical and legal custody.

  • Physical custody determines the residency of the child and the parent’s daily care responsibilities. Custody arrangements can include sole physical custody or joint custody, where both parents act as primary caregivers and the child lives in both homes. The amount of time the child spends in each home varies depending on the situation and the child’s best interests.
  • Legal custody gives a parent the ability to make decisions on behalf of the child. The court may award joint legal custody even if one parent has primary physical custody. Joint legal custody is generally preferred by the courts to ensure that both parents are actively involved in making decisions about the child’s education, religion, and medical treatment unless there is a compelling reason for awarding sole legal custody.

How Is Child Custody Determined in Ohio?

Important custody decisions must be made during the divorce process. Whenever possible, our Lucas County child custody attorneys try to have families work together to achieve a fair and favorable custody arrangement. However, when negotiation and mediation do not yield results, the court will award custody based on the best interests of the child.

In determining the best interests of the child, the court may consider:

  • The child’s current living situation and school
  • The physical and mental health of each parent
  • Each parent’s ability to care for the child
  • Observations of the parents with the child
  • Each parent’s relationship with the child
  • Other family relationships, such as siblings
  • The child’s preferences if they are old enough and demonstrate a certain maturity level

At Smith & Smith Law Office, LLC, we provide compassionate legal representation for our clients in custody disputes. Whether you are making custody decisions at the time of your divorce or a change in circumstance requires a change in your existing custody order, our Lucas County child custody attorneys will work with you to find the best solution for your family.

How Can You Resolve A Custody Dispute?

There are many options for resolving custody disputes, including:

 We guide clients toward the strategies that are most beneficial and efficient for their families. This means that we can help with mediation and negotiation to resolve disputes between the parents and avoid court, but we are also prepared to fight for you in court if the dispute cannot be resolved.

Contact Our Child Custody Attorney in Lucas County Today

If you're facing child custody issues in Ohio, you don't have to navigate this challenging journey alone. Our child custody attorneys in Lucas County are here to provide you with the guidance and support you need during this difficult time. We understand that every family situation is unique and are committed to helping you find the best solution for your child's well-being. Whether you're going through a divorce separation or need assistance with modifying an existing custody arrangement, we are here to listen to your concerns and advocate for your rights as a parent. Contact Smith & Smith Law Office, LLC today to schedule a consultation, and let us help you protect your child's best interests. Your family's future is important to us, and we are ready to stand by your side every step of the way.

Please contact our firm at (419) 842-4629 to get advice from a dedicated and compassionate Lucas County child custody lawyer.

Why Choose Smith & Smith Law Office, LLC?

  • Free Phone Consultations
  • Committed to a 24 Hour Response Time
  • Exclusively Practicing Family Law
  • Put a Fierce Advocate On Your Side
  • Affordable Financing Available
  • Offering Alternative Options to Divorce

Get to Know Us Through the Eyes of Our Clients

    "Clear and supportive process."
    Smith & Smith Law Office, LLC represented me in my divorce. We used collaborative law after they suggested an alternative, and I'm so glad we did. We reached a complete agreement after three meetings and only had to go to court once. Everything was explained clearly, and they answered all my messages. Highly recommend.
    - Sam
    "Prepared, patient, and caring."
    Smith & Smith Law Office, LLC represented me in my custody case. They modified my custody order and filed a motion when the agreement wasn't followed. They answered emails and calls promptly, and worked with me on a payment plan. Very prepared, patient, and caring. Highly recommend.
    - Glenn
    "Experience and attention to detail"
    Smith & Smith Law Office, LLC did an amazing job with my case. It was a challenging matter that required creative solutions, and the team had the experience and attention to detail to get the outcome needed.
    - Michael
    "She was an amazing lawyer"
    She was an amazing lawyer She Answered every question I had. Delivered excellency service and even helped me get everything I needed. If I ever have another problem I know who I am going to call!
    - Gary R.
    "Can not thank her enough"
    Christine is a life saver. She took what I thought was the end of my life and the system screwing me over to giving me my life back. She is my forever lawyer. Can not thank her enough
    - Joshua R.
    "If you’re looking for representation who is professional and thorough, this is the place!"
    If you’re looking for representation who is professional and thorough, this is the place. Christine’s knowledge is outstanding, she is someone who is compassionate and caring for all her clients! She took the time in listening to all my needs and trust her 100% of the way. If you’re ever stuck in a difficult situation for child support and child custody, she’s the person you want on your side helping you fight the battle.
    - Former Client
    "Christine was confident, had some great strategies of how we could fight this and really made me feel hope again."
    I spoke with Christine today regarding my divorce case that my previous attorney mishandled. After talking to over a dozen lawyers to try to find someone to help combat the mess I'm in, Christine was confident, had some great strategies of how we could fight this and really made me feel hope again. I am looking forward to working with her, I feel she will do a very good job handling my case and will fight for me.
    - Amanda B.
    "Christine has been absolutely amazing to work with in an especially difficult time."
    Christine has been absolutely amazing to work with in an especially difficult time. I am thankful for her knowledge and experience! I would highly recommend her!
    - Maggie W.
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