When parents separate in Ohio, one of the most important and emotionally charged issues is determining how parenting time will work. In Ohio, the parenting schedules are made by the court depending on what the best interest of the child is while still keeping a relationship with both parents. However, many parents are unsure how the court is going to decide what is best for the child
Understanding the different types of parenting time schedules available in Ohio can help you make informed decisions and avoid unnecessary conflict. Whether you are creating a parenting plan for the first time or facing a visitation dispute, knowing how Ohio courts approach parenting time can put you in a stronger position to protect your rights and your child’s well-being.
What is Parenting Time in Ohio?
In Ohio, parenting time refers to the time a child spends with each parent when one parent is designated the residential parent or when parents share custody. Parenting time schedules may be:
- Agreed with the parents’ decisions
- Ordered by the court
- Modified over time as circumstances change
Standard Parenting Time Schedules
Ohio courts often start with a standard parenting schedule. If the parents cannot agree, this usually includes:
- Alternate weekends: One parent has the child every other weekend
- Midweek visits: Short visits during the week to keep in contact with the child
- Holidays and school vacations:
The goal is to create a steady routine that provides children with consistent contact with both parents.
Types of Parenting Timing
- Standard parenting schedule, if the couple can not agree on a custom plan, typically it will be:
- Every other weekend (Friday to Sunday)
- One evening or overnight during the week
- Alternating holidays
- Extended time during summer breaks
- This schedule is typically good for parents with work schedules or who live far apart from each other
- 50/50 Shared parenting time
Ohio law allows shared parenting, where parents can divide time more equally
Popular Options Include:
- Week on / Week off
- 2-2-5-5 Schedule
- 3-4-4-3 Schedule
- These types of schedules are best for parents who communicate well and live close to each other
Factors Ohio Court Considers
Ohio courts will look at multiple factors when deciding a parent’s schedule with their children, and some things they look at and go over include:
- Best interest of the child
- Child and family relationships
- Health and safety
- Parenting conduct
- In some cases, the child wishes
The court will also consider the parents’ individual work schedules to determine how they can best care for the child. The court will also determine where each parent is living and whether either parent has plans to move away from the area where the child was born.
Tips for Having Successful Parenting Time
- Focus on the child’s routine, comfort, and emotional matters; don’t fight over “winning time” with the child.
- Avoid having the child be the messenger back and forth between parents.
- Don’t speak badly about the other parent to your child.
- Arrive on time for exchanges and child pickups.
- Accommodate with the other parent.
- Support the child’s relationship with the other parent.
- Maintain a safe and stable environment for the child.
- Manage any conflict away from the child.
Contact Axelrod To Get More Information about Parenting.
Figuring out parenting schedules can be emotionally draining and legally difficult to solve. The attorneys at Axelrod and Hellier understand that Ohio courts approach parenting time decisions and how to advocate for schedules that truly serve your child’s best interests.
Whether you are establishing a parenting schedule for the first time or seeking a modification due to changing circumstances, Axelrod & Hellier is committed to helping you achieve a practical, child-focused solution.