Legal Question in Family Law in Ohio

Parents Rights

I have a 15 year old son that has some issues that he needs to work out but me as a parent, I have another child in the house to protect. He has shown anger towards the toddler and has even gone as far as to leave marks on him. At this point in the game, I need to know what my rights are as a parent in dealing with this situation. I can't leave the two of them alone in the same room for more than a couple of minutes without worring that something will happen. I don't wish to wait until something more serious has happened before I starting finding out how to deal with situation. We have been in counciling and this doesn't seem to be having any effect on his behavior. At present we are dealing with sexual issues, disregard for authority, and anger. If you could provide any info, it would be much appreciated.


Asked on 7/01/99, 8:49 am

1 Answer from Attorneys

Jonathan Schiff Self employed

Re: Parents Rights

Legally, your situation is kind of tenuous. Even if you get some agency (court, human services) to place him, you still may be required to pay support and once that happens you would probably lose control of the process.

I would be more interested (although I am an attorney, not a psych or MD) to learn if you have had a medical diagnosis. And if so, what, if any, was the recommendation. It's hard to get an idea of what's going on from a thumbnail sketch, but it's obviously serious.

I would try to get a medical workup and/or a psychiatric as well. There are many physical as well as emotional and personality that could be involved. Some may be treated with medication, some with psychotherapy and some through other means. But if you haven't already gone that route, you need to immediately.

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Answered on 7/10/99, 7:52 pm


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