Navigating Ohio Child Custody Laws
If your child’s co-parent refuses to comply with the terms of the child custody order, our trusted child custody enforcement attorney in Columbus, OH, can help you determine the legal actions you can take to remedy the situation. In an ideal world, parents would normally comply with any custody order regarding their child. However, that does not always occur. It is often necessary for one parent to take action to compel their co-parent to fulfill his or her parental obligations.
If you need help with the enforcement of child custody orders, schedule a free consultation with our top-ranking Ohio family law attorneys at Sheppard Law Offices today. Our family law firm has the experience and resources to help you achieve the favorable resolution you desire.
Why Do I Need a Child Custody Enforcement Attorney in Ohio?
For some couples, divorce can be a painful and stressful process, especially when children are involved. Children are the most valuable asset of any marriage. In a divorce case, their best interests should be paramount. Both parents must decide how to make custody decisions and how to split time with their children together.
It can be overwhelming and frustrating when your co-parent does not follow the child custody order that was established. You may be wondering how to enforce this order and whether you should involve the court or not. If you currently have a child custody arrangement in place and feel that the other parent is constantly violating this plan, our qualified Columbus child custody enforcement attorneys at Sheppard Law Offices are here to help. We are committed to the following:
- Handling the most challenging family law cases, including divorce, dissolution, child support, spousal support, contempt proceedings, modifications, administrative reviews of child support, and interstate and intrastate issues involving the same, all here in Ohio.
- Taking the time to get to know our clients and listen to their needs and the needs of their children.
- Supporting our clients throughout their legal custody battle, enforcement of court orders when one party is violating an agreement, and beyond.
- Giving your case the individual care and dedication it deserves, easing your stress, and guiding you through the legal process.
- Providing individualized and supportive legal representation, being available for both legal counsel and emotional support.
Our legal team aims to protect our client’s rights and goals while looking out for the best interests of their children. Schedule a free consultation with us today to ensure your child’s rights and best interests are honored and protected.
What is Child Custody Enforcement?
Determining child custody is one of the most emotionally difficult and contentious aspects of separating from your child’s other parent. Each state has its laws regarding the types of custody arrangements the court may award, as well as the factors that are considered in making child custody determinations.
However, when a court order is violated, the solution is to file a motion for enforcement. In the event your co-parent is acting unreasonably and has violated a child custody order more than once, it is probably time to consider enforcing your order. Before filing a court action, you should know that the court wants to do what is in the best interests of the child. It would be beneficial to consult with a skilled Columbus, OH, child custody enforcement attorney before doing so to ensure your child’s rights are protected.
How to Enforce a Child Custody Order in Ohio?
A party whose ex-spouse is not obeying the custody order can file a motion to enforce the order with the court, which specifically points out the provisions of the custody order that have been violated. Parents who violate the order can be held in contempt by the court.
Before you move forward, our competent Columbus child custody enforcement lawyer will make sure you know what needs to be done to help build a strong case strategy. By taking the proper steps, you may give your case an increased chance of success. The steps you should take include the following:
- Read and understand the child custody order
- Prove the occurrence of the violation
- Speak with a credible Columbus child custody enforcement lawyer to represent your claims
- Negotiate a potential agreement with the other co-parent to resolve the problem without contention
- File the contempt motion with the family court
- Serve the documents and paperwork to the other party
- Attend the scheduled hearings
What are the Consequences for Violating a Child Custody Order?
Child custody agreements are determined and agreed to by the parents and then approved by the court, which makes it a legally enforceable agreement. In this case, a violation of a child custody order is treated very seriously and may lead to legal consequences.
When a party fails to comply with a child custody order, the offended party may file a citation in contempt. A hearing will be held to determine if there has been a failure to abide by a court order. If the individual is found to be in violation, they may be:
- Ordered to pay monetary sanctions or attorney fees
- Sentenced to jail
- Required to take some other steps to reinstate compliance
Call Our Experienced Columbus Child Custody Enforcement Attorney Now!
Child custody agreements are essential components of a separation or divorce. When it comes to choosing and deciding who gets custody of a child, there are many factors judges look at in child custody cases. They look for evidence that the child will be well cared for by whoever gets custody.
If your child’s other parent violates the child custody agreement by either not allowing the other parent to see the child according to the schedule or by constantly trying to make changes to the schedule, they can be held in contempt by the Ohio family court. The law provides recourse for parents who find themselves in this unfortunate situation. Our seasoned Columbus child custody enforcement attorneys at Sheppard Law Offices can help you take the proper legal action.
Our family law firm can help you navigate the complexities of child custody enforcement, including legal paperwork and courtroom rules. We are here to hold the violating parent accountable and require them to comply with the orders of the court. No matter which side of the child custody enforcement case you’re on, we are here to advocate for your rights. Contact our law office today and schedule a free consultation to discuss the details of your case.
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