This is the final post in a series of articles addressing child custody cases involving a parent’s use of illegal drugs in Dayton, Ohio. The previous post explained how parents should conduct themselves following the conclusion of a child custody trial. Parents must comply with custody and care arrangements ordered by the court as well as ongoing drug testing or rehabilitation requirements. Failing to do so could result in contempt of court charges or a further modification of the custody arrangement. This post will recap the series and reiterate some of the key points discussed throughout. If you need assistance with a custody matter, contact our office as soon as possible to speak to an attorney.
We have reviewed the following key points in this series:
- Requesting a change in custody as a result of a parent’s illegal drug use
- Discovery related to drug-related issues in a custody case
- What to expect during a custody trial
- How to proceed after the trial
The safety of one’s child is of utmost importance. When a parent believes that their child is in danger as a result of their co-parent’s illegal drug use, it may be necessary to seek a change in child custody. It is important to understand how these cases proceed and how the courts will evaluate a request for a change of custody due to a parent’s illegal drug use. A parent should have a basic understanding of the legal process required to request a change in custody from the Court. Once that request has been made the parties can request discovery from the other parent in order to gather objective evidence in support of their case. Unless the parties are able to come to an agreement regarding the requested change in custody prior to trial, the request for a change of custody will proceed to trial where the judge will review testimony and evidence gathered during the discovery process and issue a decision on the requested change in custody. The court may view use of marijuana differently than other illegal drugs. If a child is in immediate danger from a parent’s use of illegal drugs, a judge may order an emergency custody change. Finally, it is important to understand how to proceed after the conclusion of the trial.
We cannot overemphasize the importance of retaining an experienced family law attorney to assist you with a custody change issue. Contact our office today to speak with a Dayton child custody lawyer. We also serve the areas of Beavercreek, Centerville, Clayton, Eaton, Englewood, Fairborn, Franklin, Harrison Township, Huber Heights, Kettering, Oakwood, Lebanon, Miami Township, Miamisburg, Piqua, Riverside, Springboro, Springfield, Tipp City, Trotwood, Troy, Vandalia, Waynesville, Washington Township, West Carrollton, Yellow Springs, and Xenia.
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