Child Support, Custody and Father’s Rights

“Custody” generally refers to the legal authority to make major decisions regarding a child’s upbringing and, in some cases, to designate the child’s primary residence. “Parenting time” refers to the schedule under which each parent spends time with the child. Parenting time may be unsupervised or supervised, depending on the circumstances. 

Courts must consider the best interests of the child. Factors include: each parent’s wishes, the child’s relationship with parents, siblings, and other significant individuals, the child’s adjustment to home, school, and community, the parents’ ability to cooperate, and whether either parent intends to relocate.

Yes. Custody, child support, and spousal support orders can be modified under certain circumstances with court approval. Child support may also be modified through an administrative review conducted by the Child Support Enforcement Agency (CSEA).

With sole custody, one parent has the exclusive right to make major decisions concerning the child’s upbringing, though both parents typically retain access to school and medical records. Shared parenting requires both parents to work together in making key decisions, although one parent may be granted final decision-making authority. Courts must approve a shared parenting plan only if it is in the child’s best interests, applying factors under Ohio Revised Code § 3109.04. 

This is a legal document that unmarried parents may sign to establish a father’s paternity. Once completed, it legally identifies the man as the child’s father, allows his name to be added to the birth certificate, and may permit a change to the child’s last name. The affidavit is available through local health departments or the CSEA. 

Establishing paternity gives both parents and the child legal rights and protections. Once paternity is confirmed, the father can pursue custody or visitation, and the child gains access to benefits such as financial support, health insurance, inheritance rights, and family medical history. It also ensures that both parents can share in the emotional and financial responsibilities of raising their child.

If you’ve been named as a child’s father but believe you are not the biological parent, you have the right to contest paternity. This process often involves court-ordered DNA testing and a review of the existing legal documents. Our firm can help you navigate this sensitive situation and protect your rights while ensuring the truth is established fairly and accurately.

Can a father seek custody or visitation after paternity is confirmed?

Yes. Once paternity is legally established, fathers can request custody or parenting time just like any other parent. The court will consider several factors—including each parent’s relationship with the child and the child’s best interests—when making these decisions. At Goodrum Law Group, we help fathers assert their parental rights and build meaningful relationships with their children.