If you’re in the process of fighting for child custody, a variety of factors will ultimately affect the outcome of the proceedings. Examples include your living situation, earning capacity, physical health, mental wellness, and extent of involvement in your children’s day-to-day lives. Naturally, a history of domestic violence on your part or the part of your ex will also influence the final custody arrangement under family law. 

How Domestic Violence Can Affect Visitation 

Family law judges are unlikely to award physical custody to parents who have a history of domestic violence—even if they were never abusive to the children in question. Since it is usually in a child’s best interests to maintain some kind of relationship with both parents, though, the judge may still award visitation to the parent who has a history of abuse. Depending on the circumstances, this visitation may have to be supervised. 

How Domestic Violence Can Affect Parental Rights 

In rare circumstances, domestic violence can result in the termination of parental rights. Since this is such a severe—and permanent—action, family law judges do not take it lightly. There are scenarios, though, in which the termination of parental rights is in the best interests of any children involved. If the individual seeking custody abused the children, for example, such an action may be warranted. 

If you’re facing a contentious custody battle in Ohio, turn to the family law team at Lane, Felix & Raisbeck CO, LPA. Located in Cincinnati, this firm has been providing unparalleled legal counsel for clients throughout Hamilton County for more than three decades. As a full-service practice, they can handle virtually all your needs, from estate planning and criminal defense to civil litigation and commercial transactions. To learn more about the guidance they provide, visit their website. To schedule an initial consultation with a family law attorney on their team, call (513) 922-7700.