Parenting time is one of the most important issues that parents will face when they go through a divorce. This is because child custody involves not only the physical care and custody of a child, but also the emotional support and guidance provided by both parents. In Ohio, parents are required to make arrangements for parenting time as part of the divorce process. This article provides an overview of parenting time in Ohio divorce cases.
What is Parenting Time?
Parenting time, also known as visitation, is the time that a noncustodial parent is entitled to spend with their child. This may include overnight stays, weekend visitations, holidays, and summer vacations. Parenting time is usually spelled out in the parenting plan, which is a document that outlines the rights and responsibilities of each parent in relation to their child.
The Best Interests of the Child
In Ohio, the courts use the best interests of the child standard to determine parenting time. This means that the court will consider a number of factors when deciding how to allocate parenting time. Factors that the court may consider include the child’s age, gender, and developmental stage; the child’s relationship with each parent; each parent’s physical and emotional health; the child’s relationship with other family members, such as siblings, grandparents, and extended family; the parents’ work schedules and availability; and any history of abuse or neglect.
Types of Parenting Plans
Ohio law requires that divorcing parents establish a parenting plan that outlines the rights and responsibilities of each parent with respect to their child. There are two basic types of parenting plans that can be established in Ohio:
Shared Parenting Plan
A shared parenting plan is when both parents have joint custody of the child and share in the decision-making responsibilities related to the child. This type of plan is ideal for parents who are able to communicate and cooperate with each other and who are willing to work together to provide a stable and loving environment for their child.
Sole Custody Plan
A sole custody plan is when one parent has primary custody of the child and the other parent has visitation rights. This type of plan is appropriate when one parent is unwilling or unable to cooperate with the other parent, when one parent has a history of abuse or neglect, or when the child has special needs that require a more stable environment.
Parenting Time Schedules
Once a parenting plan has been established, parenting time schedules will be put in place. These schedules will outline when the child will be with each parent and for how long. There are several types of parenting time schedules that can be used in Ohio:
Fixed Parenting Time Schedule
A fixed parenting time schedule is when parenting time is scheduled in advance and remains the same every week. This type of schedule is appropriate for parents who have consistent work schedules and who live close to each other.
Rotating Parenting Time Schedule
A rotating parenting time schedule is when parenting time is alternated between parents on a regular basis. For example, the child may spend the first two weeks of the month with one parent and the second two weeks with the other parent. This type of schedule is appropriate for parents who live further away from each other and who have varying work schedules.
Seasonal Parenting Time Schedule
A seasonal parenting time schedule is when parenting time is scheduled according to the time of year. For example, the child may spend summer vacation with one parent and winter break with the other parent. This type of schedule is appropriate for parents who live far away from each other or who have very different work schedules.
Modifying Parenting Plans and Schedules
Parenting plans and schedules are not set in stone and can be modified if circumstances change. If one parent wants to modify a parenting plan or schedule, they will need to file a motion with the court and provide evidence as to why the modification is necessary. Some reasons for modification may include a change in work schedule, a change in living arrangements, or a change in the child’s needs.
Conclusion
Parenting time is a critical issue in Ohio divorce cases. The best interests of the child standard is used to determine parenting time arrangements, and there are two basic types of parenting plans that can be established: shared parenting and sole custody. Once a plan has been established, parenting time schedules will be put in place, and these schedules can be modified if circumstances change.