Unmarried couple,custody,support,visitation

[laidback]

My daughter is not married to the father of her child. They have lived together as a couple for three years and are now splitting up. Will she need to contact a lawyer for help with custody, support and visitation rights or is there some sort of form available they can handle themselves? Do they use a mediator in this circumstance? She lives in Ohio and their child is two years old. This is her only child. My main question - Do we need the help of a lawyer?
Thanks for any advice you can lend
Grandma

 

[jharris352]

The best answer to this is YES, you need a lawyer. As long as there is no dispute this should not be expensive but it should be done right. Is he on the birth certificate? Has paternity been established? Is he willing to pay child support? Are they at odds or are they still friendly even after the break up?

 

[Duranie]

Well if both parents can agree, it will save both of them alot of money. Many courts offer mediation. If they can mediate and save a ton on attorneys fees that is the way to go. Dad generally is entitled to every other weekend for visits and possibly one night during the week. They also need to work out holidays, birthdays, transportation, etc..

 

[jharris352]

I would agree if the parties are in total agreement and they know how to do the paperwork. Many times agreeing parties don't do the paperwork and all is well till it isn't. Then there is no paperwork to enforce. I think the mediation comment is a very good point. If it is available do it.