December 2025

At the Meade Law Group, we understand the frustration that comes when a custodial parent acts as a gatekeeper. Many parents mistakenly believe that being “non-custodial” means they have no say in their child’s upbringing. This is a common misconception. Under the Ohio Revised Code, parents with established parental rights have specific, enforceable legal protections designed to maintain their bond with their child and involvement in major life decisions. Understanding non-custodial parent rights in Ohio is the first step toward reclaiming your role as an active parent. Whether you are a father navigating the juvenile court system or a parent who feels pushed out of school and medical decisions, we are here to help you move from the sidelines. What Rights Does a Non-Custodial Parent Have? In Ohio, the term

Navigating the legal system is hard for married couples ending a relationship. For unmarried parents, it can be even tougher. If you have never married your child’s other parent, you may wonder who makes decisions. This includes medical choices, school enrollment, and visitation schedules. Understanding Ohio custody laws for unmarried parents is important. This knowledge helps protect your rights and ensures your child’s stability. In Ohio, the default rule is clear. According to the Ohio Revised Code (ORC 3109.042), an unmarried mother is the only legal parent of her child. This status lasts until a court says otherwise. This grants unmarried mothers the right to make all major decisions immediately upon the child’s birth. However, this does not mean fathers are without recourse. It simply means that for an unmarried