Child Custody & Visitation Services

in Cleveland & Northeast Ohio

Child Custody & Visitation

When it comes to parenting rights, nothing matters more than protecting your relationship with your child. Whether you’re going through a divorce or seeking custody as an unmarried parent, we help you understand your options and create parenting plans that work — for you, and for your family.



We represent mothers and fathers across Cleveland, Independence, Beachwood, Westlake, Akron, and the surrounding areas in all matters related to custody, visitation, and parenting time.

Understanding Custody in Ohio

leGAL VS. PHYSICAL CUSTODY

Legal custody refers to decision-making authority — like education, medical care, and religion. Physical custody refers to where the child lives. In Ohio, courts can award shared parenting (where both parents share these responsibilities) or sole custody.


We help you understand what each arrangement means and which option makes sense based on your circumstances.

PARENTING TIME (VISITATION)

Ohio no longer uses the term “visitation” in most cases. Instead, it’s referred to as “parenting time.”
We work with clients to develop parenting time schedules that account for school, work, holidays, travel, and the child’s specific needs. When parents can’t agree, the court may impose a standard order — but custom agreements often serve families better.

BEST INTEREST OF THE CHILD STANDARD

Courts in Ohio base all custody decisions on what’s in the child’s best interest. This includes evaluating:

  • The child’s relationship with each parent
  • Each parent’s ability to provide a stable home
  • The child’s adjustment to school and community
  • Any history of abuse, neglect, or violence
  • The child’s wishes (depending on age and maturity)

We guide you through the court’s perspective and help you build a parenting case grounded in facts, not emotions.

GUARDIANS AD LITEM (GAL)

In contested custody cases, the court may appoint a Guardian ad Litem — an attorney or trained individual who investigates and reports to the judge on the child’s best interests.


We help parents understand the GAL’s role, prepare for interviews, and respond to reports effectively.

Modifying Parenting Orders Over Time

As children grow or circumstances change, parenting plans may need to be adjusted.

When a Parent Doesn’t Follow the Plan

If the other parent is denying parenting time or violating a court order, legal enforcement may be necessary.

Who We Help

We represent both custodial and non-custodial parents, including:

  • Divorcing parents
  • Unmarried parents seeking to establish custody
  • Parents seeking to modify or enforce an existing order
  • Individuals involved in multi-state or complex parenting arrangements

OUR APPROACH

  • We prioritize the child’s wellbeing while protecting your parental rights
  • We explain the law in plain terms so you understand your options
  • We help reduce conflict while staying focused on long-term outcomes
  • We handle both initial custody determinations and post-decree issues

FAQs

  • How does Ohio decide child custody?

    Ohio courts use the "best interest of the child" standard to determine custody. This includes the child’s relationship with each parent, ability to provide a stable home, and each parent’s involvement in day-to-day care.

  • What is shared parenting in Ohio?

    Shared parenting means both parents share decision-making authority and time with the child. It doesn’t necessarily mean a 50/50 schedule, but it does require cooperation and communication between parents.

  • Can children choose which parent to live with?

    A child’s wishes may be considered by the court, depending on age and maturity, but they do not get to choose outright. The judge makes the final decision based on the child's best interest.

  • Do I need a parenting plan?

    Yes. Parenting plans outline how time with the child is shared and how decisions are made. Courts often require a plan in custody cases, and detailed plans help avoid future conflict.

  • Can custody orders be changed later?

    Yes. If there is a substantial change in circumstances, you can ask the court to modify the custody or parenting plan.

Have any more questions?

I WILL GIVE YOU HONEST ADVICE.

We don’t sugarcoat the truth — we give clear, honest advice.

I WILL PROVIDE YOU WITH CLEAR PRICING.

We explain costs upfront so there are no financial surprises.

I WILL LISTEN TO YOU FIRST.

We listen first, then guide you through your legal options.

TOGETHER, WE'LL FOCUS ON YOUR FUTURE.

We focus on practical outcomes that position you for a stronger future.