Defending The Custodial Rights Of Same-Sex Parents
Experienced same-sex custody attorney Shelly L. Kennedy provides the trusted guidance and professional legal representation needed to protect your rights as a parent.
Child custody matters are among the most heated and potentially contentious types of cases handled by the Ohio family law courts. The outcome can impact your rights as a parent and your relationship with your children for years into the future. When custody issues arise within same-sex couples, there are additional legal challenges that they are likely to face.
Our firm, The Law Offices of Shelly L. Kennedy, Ltd., our founding attorney provides the professional legal representation you need in these situations. As an Ohio same-sex family and divorce attorney, attorney Kennedy has been serving the needs of the LGBTQ community for more than 25 years. When it comes to protecting you and your child, she is a trusted advocate to have on your side.
Trusted Legal Guidance In Same-Sex Custody Matters
For same-sex parents, separating from your partner can have a significant impact on your rights and your relationship with your children. Whether you are going through a divorce or are unmarried and going through a breakup, the guidelines for resolving issues pertaining to custody and visitation are listed under Chapter 3109 of the Ohio Revised Code.
In general, the court is in favor of parenting arrangements that allow both parties to remain active and involved in their children’s lives. While these apply equally in cases involving members of the LGBTQ community, circumstances surrounding same-sex couples and their children can make these proceedings more complex. Issues that are likely to impact your rights include:
- Whether you are married or in a domestic partnership
- When the child was born
- Whether one or both parties adopted the child
- Whether a surrogate or sperm or egg donor was used
As an experienced same-sex family law attorney, attorney Kennedy can advise you on how family court laws are likely to apply in your specific situation.
Protecting Your Rights As A Parent And Your Relationship With Your Child
In child custody proceedings involving divorce or unmarried parents, the amount of time the child spends with each party is generally determined through an approved Ohio court parenting plan. Issues addressed in these plans include the following:
- Joint custody arrangements
- Primary custody and visitation
- Legal custody, which gives one or both parents authority in making decisions regarding the child
- Arrangements regarding pickup and drop-off plans and how disputes or unexpected events will be resolved
One of the major issues that can come up in cases involving the LGBTQ community is when one of the parties is not the biological or legal parent. While this situation can present challenges, attorney Kennedy can advise you on your options while acting as a strong legal advocate on your side.
Contact An Experienced Attorney
When it comes to protecting your children and your rights as a parent, you need an experienced Ohio same-sex child custody attorney on your side. Call 419-719-5245 or contact our firm online and request a confidential consultation to discuss how we can help you today.