Indian Hill is known for its tree-lined streets, top-rated schools, and strong sense of community—making it one of the most family-oriented areas in the Greater Cincinnati region. Families here take great pride in providing stability, support, and opportunity for their children. But even in the most loving homes, life can bring unexpected changes. Divorce, separation, and parenting disagreements can lead to difficult custody decisions that have long-term effects on everyone involved—especially the children.
Child custody matters are among the most emotionally charged issues in family law. The decisions made today can influence everything from daily routines to long-term emotional wellbeing. Whether parents are separating amicably or navigating high-conflict dynamics, custody discussions require more than paperwork—they demand thoughtful, strategic, and empathetic legal guidance.
At Keller, Barrett & Higgins, we understand that no two families are the same. We also understand that parents want what’s best for their children but may not always agree on what that looks like. Our role is to help you make informed decisions, navigate the legal process with confidence, and work toward custody arrangements that prioritize the well-being and future of your child.
In Ohio, custody is divided into two categories:
It’s possible for one parent to have sole legal or physical custody, but courts often favor shared arrangements when it's in the child’s best interest.
Ohio courts commonly use the term “shared parenting” when both parents actively participate in raising the child, even if the child resides primarily with one parent. In a shared parenting arrangement:
In sole custody situations, one parent assumes full legal and/or physical custody, while the other may receive visitation rights depending on the circumstances. Sole custody is more likely to be granted when one parent is deemed unfit due to issues such as abuse, neglect, or substance abuse.
Above all else, Ohio courts base custody decisions on what serves the best interests of the child. This guiding principle ensures that each custody arrangement supports the child’s emotional, physical, and developmental wellbeing.
When determining what’s best for a child, Ohio courts evaluate several factors, including:
These considerations help the court craft a parenting arrangement that truly supports the child’s long-term happiness and stability.
Whether you’re going through a divorce, legal separation, or navigating custody as an unmarried parent, the initial custody agreement lays the groundwork for your child’s future. KBH helps clients:
We work to create a parenting structure that meets the child’s needs while respecting each parent’s role.
A detailed parenting time schedule helps minimize conflict and create consistency for your child. Our team assists in:
We help you develop realistic, age-appropriate plans that put your child’s routine and comfort first.
Life changes—and when it does, your custody agreement may need to change too. If one parent relocates, changes jobs, or there’s a shift in the child’s needs, we can help request a modification through the court. KBH provides:
Our goal is to help families adapt while preserving stability for the child.
When a parent fails to follow the custody agreement—such as withholding visitation or ignoring pick-up times—legal action may be necessary. We assist in:
Consistency matters, and we’re here to make sure your court-ordered agreement is respected.
In urgent cases involving abuse, neglect, or other serious risks, swift legal action is needed to protect the child. Our attorneys are experienced in:
We act quickly and decisively to ensure children are safe and supported.
Ohio law allows certain non-parental caregivers—like grandparents or other relatives—to seek custody or visitation in limited circumstances. If you are a third party concerned about a child’s wellbeing, we help you:
We recognize that family support comes in many forms, and we advocate for those who step up when a child needs them most.
In amicable custody situations, parents are generally aligned in their parenting values and willing to collaborate on a shared parenting plan. These cases often move more smoothly, can be resolved faster, and tend to be less emotionally draining for the children involved.
In contrast, high-conflict custody cases may involve disagreements over parenting time, relocation, communication, or decision-making authority. In these situations, it’s essential to work with an experienced legal team that can balance assertive advocacy with long-term strategy. At KBH, we guide parents through each step—whether you’re trying to avoid unnecessary conflict or protecting your child from a harmful situation.
Litigation isn’t the only option. In fact, many families benefit from resolving custody matters outside the courtroom through mediation or collaborative law. These alternatives:
At Keller, Barrett & Higgins, we regularly support Indian Hill families through mediation and other peaceful resolution methods whenever appropriate—helping parents stay focused on their child, not the conflict.
Indian Hill is home to many high-asset families, business owners, and professionals, which can create unique challenges in custody planning. Our firm is experienced in helping clients navigate:
We develop parenting plans that reflect the realities of each parent's lifestyle while prioritizing the child’s stability and development.
At KBH, we believe custody matters aren’t just legal issues—they’re parenting decisions that affect your child’s everyday life. We encourage strategies that promote healthy co-parenting, such as:
When both parents are committed to respectful co-parenting, children are better equipped to adjust and thrive.
Are you facing a child custody issue in Indian Hill? Whether you're navigating the early stages of a separation, preparing for divorce, or seeking changes to an existing custody arrangement, having the right legal support can make all the difference. At Keller, Barrett & Higgins, we know that few things are more personal—or more important—than protecting your relationship with your child.
Our team is here to guide you through every step of the process, from building a parenting plan to advocating for your rights in court. Whether you need to establish custody, modify an existing agreement, or resolve disputes over parenting time, you can count on KBH to be your advocate, your advisor, and your ally.
📞 Call us today at (513) 351-6058 📩 Or contact us online to schedule your private consultation with a child custody attorney serving Indian Hill, OH.
Let us help you move forward with confidence—and protect what matters most: your children and your peace of mind.