Judge Spencer announces visitation schedule revision - Ohio

Judge Spencer announces visitation schedule revision

Excerpts:

Judge Brett M. Spencer of the Adams County Court of Common Pleas has announced the adoption of a revised Court Rule 16 as it pertains to the visitation schedule with minor children. This revision will replace the previous visitation schedule, and went into effect on Jan. 3 in both domestic and juvenile cases where visitation is an issue.

At the request of Judge Spencer, the Adams County Bar Association formed a committee to review the current visitation schedule and those of surrounding counties. Led by Adams County Bar Association's President Douglas McIlwain, the committee sought to bring the visitation schedule in line with neighboring counties, which have recently increased the amount of time a child spends with the non-custodial parent. Studies have shown that a child's best interest is served by having significant, positive contact with both parents. Towards this end, the revised rule will expand non-custodial parenting time. Copies of this new rule are available from the Clerk of the Adams County Common Pleas Court.

In addition to the revised Rule 16, Judge Spencer has mandated in all new divorce and/or dissolution filings, where minor children are involved, both parents must attend a seminar on custody and parenting issues. The seminar will also be mandatory in all post-decree motions for change of custody and/or visitation, and in juvenile cases wherein custody and/or visitation are an issue.

Bar Association President Douglas Mcllwain, states the revised visitation rule 16 is prospective only, and anyone whose visitation falls under the previous Court Rule 16 will be required to apply to the appropriate division of the court, domestic or juvenile, in order to benefit from the new rule.