A process server in Columbus, Ohio, is legally authorized to deliver legal documents such as subpoenas, summons, complaints, petitions, court orders, eviction notices, and demands to the parties named in legal proceedings. Their primary role is to provide these parties with proper notice, ensuring the constitutional right to due process is upheld. Even though a […]
Divorce and Family Law Blog
Arianna Atkins Named to 2026 Edition of The Best Lawyers in America
We are proud to announce that one of Atkins and Atkins, Attorneys at Law, LLC’s founding partners, Arianna Atkins was recently selected by her peers for inclusion in the 32nd (2026) edition of The Best Lawyers in America for her high caliber work in the area of Family Law. Selection to Best Lawyers is a […]
Why Estate Planning Is Essential During Divorce and Family Transitions
Divorce and family law issues can feel overwhelming. Between custody arrangements, financial decisions, and rebuilding your future, updating your estate plan may not be the first thing on your mind. But the truth is, estate planning and family law go hand-in-hand—and overlooking it can create serious legal and financial problems down the road. In this post, […]
Stepparent Adoption Procedure in Columbus, OH
As a stepparent, legally adopting a child provides you with the same parental rights as a spouse who is a custodial parent. The court’s granting a petition for stepparent adoption in Columbus, OH, formally allows you to assume legal responsibility for a minor and terminates the rights of the other biological parent. Consent by the […]
My Case Status Says Disposed – What Does That Mean in Ohio Family Court?
If you’re involved in a family law matter and check your case status online, you might see the word “disposed.” At first glance, that can seem confusing or even alarming. Does it mean the court made a final decision? Can anything else happen? Is the case truly over? In Ohio, “disposed” has a specific legal […]
Can Same-Sex Couples Adopt in Ohio?
Same-sex couples can adopt children in Ohio. However, the couple’s marital status and adoption plan affect the process and rights they have. Keep reading to learn more. Married Same-Sex Couples Can Adopt a Child Together Ohio allows same-sex couples to jointly adopt a child if they are legally married. If the marriage is formal and […]
Is There Common Law Marriage in Ohio?
Ohio generally does not recognize common law marriages. In fact, any common law marriage that was not established before October 10, 1991, or in another state is not valid under Ohio law. According to Ohio Revised Code § 2105.12(B)(1), a marriage must be formally solemnized and properly recorded to be valid. While common law marriage […]
What Is a Custodial Parent?
When parents go through a divorce or separation, one of the most important questions is: Who will the child live with? The answer often involves the role of a custodial parent. This term comes up a lot in family law cases, and it’s important to understand what it means and how it affects parenting rights […]
How Long Do Alimony Payments Last In Ohio?
Alimony (or spousal support) is court-ordered financial support paid by one spouse to the other spouse. A couple may agree on alimony terms, or a spouse may seek alimony through litigation. The primary purpose of alimony is to provide financial support for a spouse who does not have sufficient income or resources to provide for […]
What’s the Difference Between Legal Custody and Physical Custody in Ohio?
Custody of a child determines who has the right to make important decisions for the child, who the child lives with, and who cares for the child when parents divorce or are not married. Legal custody and physical custody are common terms used to describe a parent’s rights and responsibilities regarding their child. Ohio has […]
