In Jackson County, Ohio, custody law for unmarried individuals begins with establishing paternity, which is a prerequisite for determining parental rights and responsibilities. If paternity is acknowledged voluntarily by both parents, they can sign an Affidavit of Paternity. Alternatively, paternity can be established through genetic testing and a court order if there is any dispute. Once paternity is established, the court can issue orders regarding custody, visitation (parenting time), and child support.

​

The law presumes that an unmarried mother has sole legal and physical custody of the child from birth. The father must file a court action to seek custody or parenting time. The court determines custody based on the best interests of the child, considering factors such as the child's relationship with each parent, each parent's ability to care for the child, the child's adjustment to home, school, and community, and the mental and physical health of all parties involved among other factors.

​

Joint custody, known as shared parenting in Ohio, may be awarded if both parents agree or if the court finds it to be in the best interests of the minor child. Shared parenting plans detail the allocation of parental rights and responsibilities, including decision-making authority and time spent with each parent. If the parents cannot agree or the court finds shared parenting not in the children's best interest, the court may order sole legal custody to one parent with parenting time to the other.

​

Parenting time schedules are typically established to ensure the non-custodial parent maintains a meaningful relationship with the child. Child support is calculated based on the income of both parents, the needs of the child, and the amount of time each parent spends with the child.

​

Modifications to custody and support orders can be requested if there is a significant change in circumstances of the minor child or the child's residential parent. Throughout this process, the child's best interests remain the central focus, with the aim of providing a stable and supportive environment for the child's growth and development. Consulting with a family law attorney can help navigate the complexities of custody issues for unmarried individuals in Ohio.

​