Choosing the right custody arrangement after a separation can be overwhelming. Shared parenting is one option that allows both parents to stay actively involved in their child’s life. It promotes cooperation and joint decision-making, ensuring the child benefits from the presence of both parents. However, it’s not always the best fit for every family.
In Ohio, shared parenting means both parents have legal custody and participate in major decisions regarding education, healthcare, and other aspects of their child’s life. While it offers benefits like stability and shared responsibility, it requires commitment, communication, and flexibility.
At Zuercher Law, we understand how Ohio’s family laws impact parents and children. Liz Zuercher has nearly two decades of experience helping families create parenting plans that prioritize the child’s best interests.
What Does Shared Parenting Mean in Ohio?
Ohio uses the term “shared parenting” rather than “joint custody.” This means that both parents are legal custodians, but parenting time isn’t necessarily split 50/50. Instead, parenting schedules, responsibilities, and decision-making duties are outlined in a detailed plan approved by the court.
A shared parenting plan typically includes the following:
- Residential Parent For School Placement – Determines which parent’s address is used for school enrollment and other administrative purposes.
- Parental Responsibilities – Outlines how major decisions about education, healthcare, and religious upbringing will be made.
- Parenting Time Schedule – Establishes when the child will be with each parent.
- Dispute Resolution Methods – Details how parents will handle disagreements to avoid unnecessary legal battles.
Ohio courts prioritize the child’s best interests when determining if shared parenting is a suitable arrangement. Judges consider factors like the ability of parents to communicate, the child’s wishes (depending on age and maturity), each parent’s involvement in the child’s life, and the child’s overall stability.
Benefits of Shared Parenting
Shared parenting can offer several advantages for both parents and children. When successful, it creates a balanced environment where children maintain strong relationships with both parents. Here’s why it might be a good choice:
- Stronger Parent-Child Relationships – Children get to spend quality time with both parents, helping maintain close bonds.
- More Stability – Kids benefit from consistency when both parents remain involved.
- Encourages Cooperation – Parents who successfully share parenting responsibilities learn to work together and communicate better.
- Shared Responsibilities – Both parents contribute to child-rearing and financial obligations, reducing the burden on one person.
- Better Outcomes for Children – Studies suggest that children in effective shared parenting arrangements tend to do better academically, emotionally, and socially compared to those in sole custody arrangements.
However, shared parenting only works when both parents are committed to making it successful. If conflict remains high, the arrangement can do more harm than good.
Important Considerations
While shared parenting has many benefits, it also comes with challenges. Before deciding if it’s the right choice, consider these key factors that can impact the success of this arrangement.
Ability to Cooperate
Shared parenting requires open communication and a willingness to work together. If one parent is unwilling to collaborate or there’s a history of domestic violence, this arrangement may not be in the child’s best interests.
Geographic Proximity
While not mandatory, living close to each other makes shared parenting easier. It allows children to transition between homes smoothly and participate in school and activities without major disruptions.
Consistent Parenting Approaches
Children thrive on consistency. While parents don’t have to agree on every detail, having similar rules and expectations can prevent confusion and stress for the child.
Child’s Needs
Every child is different. Consider their age, personality, and any special needs before deciding if shared parenting is the best option.
Flexibility
Life is unpredictable. Shared parenting requires both parents to adapt to changing schedules and unexpected situations while keeping the child’s best interests at heart.
Legal Aspects in Ohio
Ohio law sets clear guidelines for shared parenting. Here’s what you need to know:
- Legal Custody – Both parents are considered residential parents and legal custodians.
- School Designation – One parent will be designated as the “residential parent for school purposes.”
- Parenting Time – Shared parenting doesn’t always mean equal time. The schedule varies based on what’s best for the child.
- Court-Approved Plan – A shared parenting plan must be drafted and approved by a judge.
- Child Support – Even in shared parenting arrangements, one parent may still be required to pay child support depending on income and time spent with the child.
How to Establish Shared Parenting in Ohio
If you believe shared parenting is the right choice, here’s what the process looks like:
- Create a Parenting Plan – Parents work together to draft a plan that covers all necessary details.
- Mediation (if needed) – If parents struggle to agree, a mediator can help resolve disputes.
- Court Approval – The court reviews the plan and ensures it aligns with the child’s best interests.
- Implementation – Once approved, both parents must follow the agreed-upon plan, unless they are in agreement to deviate from the plan.
- Modifications – If circumstances change, the plan can be modified with court approval.
At Zuercher Law, we help families develop shared parenting plans that work for everyone involved. Whether through negotiation or court proceedings, we’re here to ensure your child’s well-being remains the top priority.
Considering Shared Parenting? Contact Zuercher Law Today
Shared parenting can be a great arrangement, but it’s not right for every family. If you’re wondering whether it’s the best choice for you and your child, Zuercher Law can help.
Liz Zuercher has nearly two decades of experience helping Ohio families create parenting plans that work. Whether you’re just starting the process or need to modify an existing arrangement, we’re here to provide guidance every step of the way.
Call us today at 614-633-4774 or visit our Contact Us page to schedule a consultation. Let’s work together to create a parenting plan that puts your child’s well-being first.
