Gould v. Gould , 2017 Ohio 6896 ( 2017 )

[Cite as Gould v. Gould, 2017-Ohio-6896.]
IN THE COURT OF APPEALS OF OHIO
FOURTH APPELLATE DISTRICT
LAWRENCE COUNTY
ROBERT L. GOULD, :
: Case No. 16CA30
Plaintiff-Appellee, :
:
vs. : DECISION AND JUDGMENT
: ENTRY
MELISSA GOULD, now KELLOGG, :
:
Defendant-Appellant. : Released: 07/12/17
APPEARANCES:
Melissa Kellogg, Pro Se Appellant.
Robert C. Delawder, Ironton, Ohio, for Appellee.
McFarland, J.
{¶1} Appellant Melissa Gould, n.k.a. Kellogg, appeals the December 2,
2016 judgment entry of the Lawrence County Common Pleas Court, which
approved the Magistrate’s Decision dated September 23, 2016. Based on the trial
court’s independent evaluation of the evidence and consideration of the R.C.
3109.04 (F)(1) factors, the trial court found that it was in the best interests of the
parties’ minor children that Appellee Robert I. Gould, the children’s father, be
designated the residential parent.
Lawrence App. No. 16CA30 2
Upon review of the record, we find the award of custody in this matter is
supported by a substantial amount of credible and competent evidence.
Accordingly, the assignments of error are without merit, and are hereby overruled.
The judgment of the trial court is affirmed.
FACTS
{¶2} Appellant and Appellee were married in 2010. Appellee filed a
complaint for divorce in the Lawrence County Court of Common Pleas on
December 13, 2012. The parties have two sons, A.G., age 7, and J.G., age 5, at
present. Appellee also filed an ex parte motion for shared parenting during the
pendency of the divorce action.
{¶3} The trial court granted a temporary order for shared parenting,
specifying that the parties make exchanges of the children at the Lawrence County
Sheriff’s Department. On December 28, 2012, Appellant filed an answer and
counterclaim, alleging that Appellee had been physically and mentally abusive,
and requesting the court name her the residential parent. Appellant also filed a
motion for rehearing on the ex parte motion for shared parenting.
{¶4} On January 2, 2013, the magistrate heard argument and testimony as to
the ex parte shared parenting plan and ordered that the plan be dissolved and that
Appellant be named the temporary residential custodial parent of the minor
children. Another hearing was conducted on January 30, 2013, at which time the
Lawrence App. No. 16CA30 3
magistrate made temporary orders regarding child support and other issues relating
to the minor children. A final hearing occurred on June 12, 2013. However, on
November 25, 2013, the trial court issued an order that the complaint be dismissed
without prejudice for lack of prosecution.
{¶5} On December 4, 2013, Appellee filed a motion to reinstate the divorce
action, which the trial court granted.1 On December 6, 2013, the magistrate
granted the complaint for divorce. The final appealable order of that date
addressed issues of the parties’ property, debts, custody, visitation, child support,
income tax filings, and health insurance of the minor children.
{¶6} On April 10, 2015, Appellee filed a motion for a change of custody
and termination of the child support obligation, alleging that since the divorce in
December 2013, the children had been in his custody and care most of the time,
and that he saw to their day-to-day needs. On April 20, 2015, Appellant filed a
motion for an order modifying the child support. However, after the matters came
on for hearing, both parties agreed to withdraw their respective motions. The trial
court ordered that if either party should intend to relocate outside of the immediate
tri-state area,2 they must give the other party and the Court at least a 30-day notice
in order to give the other party time to file a motion to determine appropriate
parenting time.
1
The court’s entry indicated the case was reinstated upon Appellee’s payment of $230.00 in court costs which had
been outstanding for several months.
2
In this case, the immediate tri-state area is generally understood to be Ohio, Kentucky, and West Virginia.
Lawrence App. No. 16CA30 4
{¶7} In August 2015, Appellee filed a motion for an order granting him a
temporary change of custody and emergency temporary custody of the children.
Appellee again alleged since the final divorce decree in 2013, the children had
been in his custody and care more than half of the time. He further alleged that on
a number of occasions, issues arose due to Appellant’s threatening to move the
children out of the area or to interfere with his parenting time. When the motion
was filed Appellee alleged that Appellant had already moved the minor children to
Alabama without notifying him or receiving permission of the court. He requested
an authorization from the court to allow local law enforcement to assist him in
retrieving the children if necessary. On August 6, 2015, the magistrate granted the
motion and further found that Appellant had absconded with the children in direct
violation of the court’s previous order. The magistrate further ordered that law
enforcement was authorized to assist Appellee in retrieving the children if
necessary.
{¶8} On September 3, 2015, however, the magistrate, after hearing
testimony of the parties, set aside the temporary order, based on the representation
that Appellant had moved back to Lawrence County. Appellant was further
ordered not to remove the children from the tri-state area without prior court
approval. Appellee’s motion for custody was scheduled for an evidentiary hearing.
Lawrence App. No. 16CA30 5
{¶9} On July 29, 2016, the magistrate ordered that Appellee was permitted
to enroll the minor children in Boyd County, Kentucky, schools. The matter was
scheduled for trial on August 22, 2016. On September 13, 2016, the magistrate’s
decision found, based upon the testimony of witnesses, exhibits, and arguments of
counsel, that Appellant spent the majority of her time in Auburn, Alabama, and
further found that fact constituted a change in circumstances pursuant to R.C.
3109.04(E)(1)(a). The magistrate recommended that Appellee be designated the
residential parent of both minor children and that Appellant was entitled to Rule 53
visitation.
{¶10} On September 23, 2016, Appellant filed objections to the magistrate’s
report. Appellant alleged the magistrate’s decision recommending a change of
custody was contrary to the overwhelming evidence and contrary to R.C.
3109.04(E) and (F). Appellee filed a response to Appellant’s objections to the
magistrate’s decision. However, on December 2, 2016, the trial court issued its
judgment entry which approved the magistrate’s decision and found the evidence
indicated a change in circumstances which would cause the trial court to believe it
is in the best interests of the minor children that Appellee be designated the
residential parent.3 This timely appeal followed.
3
The trial court found Appellant was entitled to Rule 53 visitation with certain modifications specified in the court’s
entry at pages 4-5.
Lawrence App. No. 16CA30 6
ASSIGNMENTS OF ERROR
“I. THE TRIAL COURT ABUSED ITS DISCRETION WHEN IT
FAILED TO TAKE INTO CONSIDERATION THE APPELLANT
BEING THE MINOR CHILDREN’S PRIMARY CARETAKER FOR
THEIR ENTIRE LIFE.
II. THE TRIAL COURT ERRED IN GRANTING SUMMARY
JUDGMENT TO APPELLEE ROBERT GOULD.
III. THE COURT’S APPLICATION OF THE RELEVANT FACTS
TO THE REMAINING FACTORS IF CONSIDERED OR
MENTION AT ALL UNDER THE BEST INTEREST STANDARD
ENUMERATED IN R.C. O.R.C. SEC.
3109.04(A)(B)(C)(D)(E)(F)(G)(H)(I)(J), WAS IN ERROR.
IV. THE TRIAL COURT ABUSED ITS DISCRETION WHEN THE
MAGISTRATE MADE BIAS (SIC) AND PREJUDICE (SIC)
REMARKS DURING TESTIMONY OF APPELLANT MELISSA
KELLOGG. ALSO, THE MAGISTRATE OVERSTEPPED HIS
AUTHORITY IN INTERROGATING APPELLANT MELISSA
KELLOGG IN REGARDS TO HER EMPLOYMENT WITH
ECOT.”
A. STANDARD OF REVIEW
{¶11} We apply the same standard to a trial court’s decision to award a
party legal custody of a child that we apply to all child custody disputes-that is, we
afford the utmost deference to a trial court’s child custody decision. See In re E.W.,
4th Dist. Washington Nos. 10CA18, 10CA19, 10CA20, 2011-Ohio-2123, ¶ 18,
citing Miller v. Miller, 37 Ohio St.3d 71, 74, 523 N.E.2d 846 (1988).
Consequently, absent an abuse of discretion, a reviewing court will not reverse a
trial court’s decision regarding child custody matters. See, e.g., Bechtol v. Bechtol,
Lawrence App. No. 16CA30 7
49 Ohio St.3d 21, 550 N.E.2d 178, (1990), syllabus. Thus, when “an award of
custody is being supported by a substantial amount of credible and competent
evidence, such an award will not be reversed as being against the weight of the
evidence by a reviewing court.” Bechtol at syllabus; see also Davis v. Flickinger,
77 Ohio St.3d 415, 418, 674 N.E.2d 1159, (1997).
{¶12} In Davis, the court explained the abuse of discretion standard that
applies in custody proceedings:
“Where an award of custody is supported by a substantial
amount of credible and competent evidence, such an award will not
be reversed as being against the weight of the evidence by a
reviewing court. (Trickey v. Trickey, [1952]158 Ohio St. 9, 470
O.O.481, 106 N.E.2d 772, approved and followed.)
The reason for this standard of review is that the trial judge
has the best opportunity to view the demeanor, attitude, and
credibility of each witness, something that does not translate well on
the written page. As we stated in Seasons Coal Co. v. Cleveland,
(1984), 10 Ohio St.3d 77, 80-81, 461 N.E.2d 1273, 1276-1277:
The underlying rationale of giving deference to the findings of
the trial court rests with the knowledge that the trial judge is best
able to view the witnesses and observe their demeanor, gestures and
voice inflections, and use these observations in weighing the
credibility of the proffered testimony.* * *
* * *A reviewing court should not reverse a decision simply
because it holds a different opinion concerning the credibility of the
witnesses and evidence submitted before the trial court. A finding of
an error in law is a legitimate ground for reversal, but a difference of
opinion on credibility of witnesses and evidence is not. The
determination of credibility of testimony and evidence must not be
encroached upon by a reviewing tribunal, especially to the extent
where the appellate court relies on unchallenged, excluded evidence
in order to justify its reversal. This is even more crucial in a child
custody case, where there may be much evident in the parties’
demeanor and attitude that does not translate to the record well.”
Lawrence App. No. 16CA30 8
Id. at 418-419.
Thus, reviewing courts should afford great deference to trial court custody
decisions. Pater v. Pater (1997) 63 Ohio St.3d 393, 396, 588 N.E.2d 794.
B. LEGAL ANALYSIS
{¶13} In Appellant’s first three assignments of error, she asserts that in
awarding custody to Appellee, the trial court: (1) failed to consider that she was
their young sons’ primary caretaker; (2) erred in granting summary judgment to
Appellee; and, (3) erroneously applied the statutory factors for granting legal
custody. Because these assignments of error challenge the trial court’s entry which
granted custody of the minor children to Appellee, we consider them jointly. For
further ease of analysis, we begin by considering the third assignment of error.
Our consideration herein necessitates a review of the legal custody standard and
the statutory factors set forth in R.C. 3109.04(F).
1. Legal Custody Standard
{¶14} In determining which of two parents would better meet a child’s best
interests, a trial court must follow R.C. 3109.04. Under the “best interests of the
child” standard of R.C. 3109.04(E), R.C. 3109.04(F)(1) requires a trial court to
consider all relevant factors, including, but not limited to:
(a) The wishes of the child’s parents regarding the child’s care;
(b) If the court has interviewed the child in chambers pursuant to
division (B) of this section regarding the child’s wishes and concerns
Lawrence App. No. 16CA30 9
as to the allocation of parental rights and responsibilities concerning
the child, the wishes and concerns of the child, as expressed to the
court;
(c) The child’s interaction and interrelationship with the child’s
parents, siblings, and any other person who may significantly affect
the child’s best interest;
(d) The child’s adjustment to the child’s home, school, and
community;
(e) The mental and physical health of all persons involved in the
situation;
(f) The parent more likely to honor and facilitate court-approved
parenting time rights or visitation and companionship rights;
(g) Whether either parent has failed to make all child support
payments, including all arrearages, that are required of that parent
pursuant to a child support order under which that parent is an
obligor;
(h) Whether either parent or any member of the household of either
parent previously has been convicted of or pleaded guilty to any
criminal offense involving any act that resulted in a child being an
abused child or a neglected child; whether either parent, in a case in
which a child has been adjudicated an abused child or a neglected
child, previously has been determined to be the perpetrator of the
abuse or neglectful act that is the basis for the adjudication; whether
either parent or any member of the household of either parent
previously has been convicted or of pleaded guilty to a violation of
section 2919.25 of the Revised Code or a sexually oriented offense
involving a victim who at the time of the commission of the offense
was a member of the family or household that is the subject of the
current proceeding; whether either parent or any member of the
household of either parent previously has been convicted of or
pleaded guilty to any offense involving a victim who at the time of
the commission of the offense was a member of the family or
household that is the subject of the current proceeding and caused
physical harm to the victim in the commission of the offense; and
Lawrence App. No. 16CA30 10
whether there is reason to believe that either parent has acted in a
manner resulting in a child being an abused or neglected child;
(i) Whether the residential parent or one of the parents subject to a
shared parenting decree has continuously and willfully denied the
other parent’s right to parenting time in accordance with an order of
the court;
(j) Whether either parent has established a residence, or is planning
to establish a residence, outside this state.
2. The Trial Court’s Analysis and Application of the Statutory Factors
{¶15} Appellant generally contends the trial court failed to properly
consider and apply R.C. 3109.04(F)(1) factors (c),(e),(f),(g),(h),(i), and (j).
Specifically, she asserts that pursuant to R.C. 3109.04(a), the children’s wishes
were never considered and “no allocation to the question asked/answered regarding
the child’s wishes and concerns were displayed.” She also asserts that pursuant to
R.C. 3109.04(F)(1)(d), the children’s adjustment to their home, school, and
community was not considered. Appellant emphasizes that the children have
resided with her since birth and, despite returning to the court on various issues,
the court had never felt a change of custody was in the best interests of the
children. Appellant argues her sons’ emotional ties are with her and she is best
suited to provide for their needs. She further emphasizes her young sons have
established home, school and community ties in Lawrence County. For the
reasons which will follow, we disagree. We are not convinced that in ascertaining
Lawrence App. No. 16CA30 11
what would be in the best interests of the parties’ minor sons the trial court failed
to properly consider all the factors enumerated in R.C. 3109.04(F).
{¶16} However, before proceeding to our review of the trial court’s best
interest consideration analysis and application of the statutory factors, we pause to
point out the record before us does not include Exhibits 1-7 introduced by
Appellee’s counsel at trial.4 Nevertheless, our individual review of the parties’ and
witnesses’ testimony demonstrates there is substantial credible and competent
evidence in the record, without admission of these exhibits, to establish the facts
and evidence upon which the magistrate relied. The transcript reveals that while
Appellee’s counsel moved to introduce the exhibits at the close of Appellee’s
direct testimony, Appellant’s counsel objected to their admission until he had
completed cross-examination. The transcript further reflects that at no time did
Appellee’s counsel again move to admit the exhibits, nor does it reflect that the
trial court sua sponte admitted the exhibits.5 As such, we do not specifically
4
Testimony indicated as follows: Exhibit 1 was a series of Facebook photographs of Appellant’s house in Auburn,
Alabama, and Facebook conversations about her home, guests and a “selfie” taken in the bathroom of the home;
Exhibit 2 was another series of Facebook posts by Appellant; Exhibit 3 was not identified; Exhibit 4 was a series of
Facebook posts during the month of March 2016; Exhibit 5 was a series of Facebook posts prior to the parties’ court
date in July 2016; Exhibit 6 was a text conversation between Appellee and Appellant in which Appellee advised
Appellant about the older son’s school drop-off times and location and Appellant responded, despite the court’s
approval of enrollment, with threats to notify Kentucky education officials and have them initiate a lawsuit; and,
Exhibit 7 was a report from the children’s pediatrician, Dr. Ford, in 2015, which indicated Appellant intended to
relocate the children to Alabama.
5
At the end of the hearing before the magistrate, the magistrate advised he would hold the case open for seven days
in order to allow the parties to supplement the record separately or jointly with information from the Ohio
Department of Education as to the ability to move the E.C.O.T. machine. There is nothing in the record to indicate
the exhibits were admitted into evidence during this time frame.
Lawrence App. No. 16CA30 12
consider the exhibits themselves but, presuming the regularity of the trial court
proceedings, rely upon the testimony related about them in the transcript.6
{¶17} The crux of the argument supporting Appellee’s motion for custody
filed on August 2015 was that since the 2013 divorce which granted Appellant full
custody, the parties’ young sons had been in Appellee’s custody and care more
than half of the time, and that Appellant spent a majority of her time in the State of
Alabama. At the magistrate’s hearing on August 22, 2016, Appellee testified and
presented testimony from his current wife Karen Gould. Appellant testified and
presented testimony of her mother Debbie Wikoff, her friend Larry Bennett, and
her daughter.
{¶18} Appellee is an assistant operator at A.K. Steel. He works shift work.
Appellee testified he resides in Catlettsburg, Kentucky (Boyd County), with Karen
Gould and her two sons, and Appellee’s minor sons who are enrolled in school in
Boyd County.7 A.G. and J.G. shared a room. At the time of the hearing, A.G.
appeared to be doing extremely well in school and J.G. had not yet begun
preschool. Appellee testified he was not trying to keep the boys from their mother
or grandmother, but thought he could offer more stability.
6
“When portions of the transcript necessary for resolution of assigned errors are omitted from the record, the
reviewing court has nothing to pass upon and thus, as to those assigned errors, the court has no choice but to
presume the validity of the lower court's proceedings, and affirm.” State v. Kempton, 4th Dist. Ross No. 15CA3489,
2016-Ohio-1183, ¶ 9, quoting Knapp v. Edwards Laboratories, 61 Ohio St.2d 197, 199, 400 N.E.2d 384 (1980).
Moreover, “[t]he duty to provide a transcript for appellate review falls upon the appellant. This is necessarily so
because an appellant bears the burden of showing error by reference to matters in the record.” Id.7
Appellee’s daughter is also a resident of his household, but is away at college.
Lawrence App. No. 16CA30 13
{¶19} Appellee related the chronology of the proceedings and testified as of
the hearing date, he understood Appellant to be living in Alabama. Appellee
testified he had seen pictures on Facebook showing Appellant’s home in Alabama
in September 2015, and based on the posts he had seen, she had been living in
Alabama during the 2015-2016 school year and had never moved back
permanently.
{¶20} Appellee further testified he had only seen Appellant 3 times during
custody exchanges and he believed that during Appellant’s parenting times, the
children were actually with her mother in Lawrence County. He testified
Facebook posts in February, March, April, May, June, and July 2016 indicated to
him that Appellant resided in Alabama in the same home. He testified the
Facebook posts stopped after a previous court date in July 2016.
{¶21} On cross-examination, Appellee admitted he had been married three
times. He disagreed that his work schedule was erratic. He admitted the Facebook
posts were the only evidence, besides their young sons’ statements to him, that
Appellant lived in Alabama. He testified the previous year, Appellant had already
taken the boys to Alabama when she told him they were moving there and when he
had to get a court order to retrieve them, in violation of the 30-day notice
requirement. On redirect, Appellee testified if he was working a swing shift, his
wife or someone else was always available to care for the boys.
Lawrence App. No. 16CA30 14
{¶22} Karen Gould testified she had been present for the child exchanges
during the past year and had only seen Appellant 2-3 times. Each week there are 2
exchanges. She also opined that the children spent most of the parenting time with
Appellant’s mother, Debbie Wikoff. Karen testified she works 9-5 in a doctor’s
office. If she is not available to transport the boys, she makes arrangements for
them.
{¶23} Debbie Wikoff, Appellant’s mother, testified Appellant resides in
Lawrence County with Appellant and her young sons. Ms. Wikoff is a second-
grade teacher. She testified the older son did well in school academically, but had
some behavior problems. Ms. Wikoff testified Appellant had lived with her since
August 2015. At times, Appellant takes long weekend trips to Alabama.
Appellant’s two older children live in Alabama.
{¶24} Ms. Wikoff testified Appellant is an online school teacher and works
out of Ms. Wikoff’s home in Lawrence County. Appellant’s work schedule is
Monday through Friday. Appellant also attends teacher’s meetings in Columbus,
Ohio, and does local testing of students. She estimated Appellant was in Ohio
95% of the time. She also testified Appellant was reluctant to participate in the
child exchanges because at one time, Appellant had a restraining order against
Appellee.
Lawrence App. No. 16CA30 15
{¶25} On cross-examination, Ms. Wikoff testified even though Appellant is
in Ohio 95% of the time, she has constant communication with her older children
via email, phone, text, and teachers. She did not know if Appellant is able to teach
online from her home in Alabama.
{¶26} On redirect, Ms. Wikoff testified she had knee replacement surgery
and was off work in January, February, and March, 2016. During that time,
Appellant stayed there and cared for her in Lawrence County. On recross, counsel
confronted Ms. Wikoff with Facebook posts indicating Appellant had been in
Alabama or Georgia during March 2016. She maintained that Appellant was not in
Alabama during that month. When she was again redirected, Ms. Wikoff testified
that during spring break of March 2016, she, Appellant, and the older kids went to
the beach.
{¶27} Appellant’s friend, Larry Bennett, testified he met Appellant in 2007
through friends. Recently, he had been staying at her home in Alabama, but he
returns to his farm in West Virginia when Appellant is in Alabama. His purpose
for staying in Alabama is to supervise the children, and to transport them to school
and extra-curricular activities when Appellant is away. He referenced himself as
their “guardian.” Mr. Bennett testified he began helping Appellant 2 years ago.
Appellant pays all housing and utility bills.
Lawrence App. No. 16CA30 16
{¶28} Specifically, Mr. Bennett testified Appellant did not live in Alabama.
She was there during long school breaks or long weekends when the younger boys
were with Appellee. He estimated she had been there 12 times in the previous
year.
{¶29} On cross-examination, Mr. Bennett testified he is a disabled veteran.
He testified Appellant saw her older children once a month and the rest of the time
she leaves them in his care in Alabama.
{¶30} Appellant’s 13-year-old daughter testified she lives in and attends
school in Alabama and since her mother had moved back to Ohio in the previous
year, she visited them in Alabama three times a month. Mr. Bennett started living
with them after Appellee retrieved the younger boys from Alabama. She testified
she and her brother did not move back with their mother to Ohio because they
liked Alabama better. She is doing better in school and she plays basketball. Her
brother is in 11th grade and plays football.
{¶31} She further testified she did not currently have a Facebook account.
She uses her mother’s account and posts photographs approximately 4 times a
week. Her mother also posts to the account. She testified she did not go on the
beach trip the last week of March 2016.
{¶32} Appellant has a teaching certificate and bachelor’s degree. She
completed her master’s degree online through the University of Alabama and that
Lawrence App. No. 16CA30 17
is how she became interested in Alabama. She is working on her doctorate in
clinical psychology. If she could complete her doctorate at the University of
Alabama, the Army would pay 75 to 80% of the cost. She would have to commit
to 5 years in the army and there is an army hospital near Auburn. Presently, she is
not enrolled in the doctorate program because rather than lose custody of the
younger boys, she moved back to Ohio.
{¶33} Appellant testified she resides in Lawrence County, Ohio, with her
mother and her two younger sons. She spent the vast majority of her time in Ohio
during the 2015-2016 school year. She testified she moved to her mother’s address
after a previous court hearing in August 2015, where she represented she would
stay in Ohio for the sake of the boys. She has an Ohio driver’s license. She voted
in the May 2016 Ohio primaries. She is employed by E.C.O.T8 as a fifth grade
teacher. Appellant helps her mother with expenses and pays rent in Auburn,
Alabama.
{¶34} Appellant testified her goal was to relocate all the children to
Alabama. However, after the younger two boys returned to Ohio, she decided to
leave the older children in Alabama. She summarized that the educational
opportunities for her children were better there.9 Other than breaks and when
8
Electronic Classroom of Tomorrow.
9
Her son, a junior, is ranked 24 out of 2200 students in his school. He plays football and has worked with a football
trainer in Alabama. Her son wants to become a petroleum engineer and there is a pilot program for him while he is
Lawrence App. No. 16CA30 18
Appellee has the boys for a long weekend or some special event, Appellant makes
quick trips to Alabama. Appellant testified she taught from the Lawrence County
location every day during the 2015-2016 school year. During the time period in
question, she spent approximately 5 days a month in Alabama and 25 in Ohio.
Appellant testified in April and May 2016, she was in Lawrence County almost
daily dealing with a sewer line problems.
{¶35} Appellant specifically testified she has to physically be at her
computer each day and she could not take the computer from location to location
in order to teach. She cannot just “take up and go anywhere.” Her work computer
is connected to a Cisco router and has a security feature. She cannot remove it to
Alabama. She is responsible only for Ohio students. Her licensure covers only the
state of Ohio.
{¶36} Appellant further testified she is responsible for state testing in other
Ohio towns such as Portsmouth, Proctorville, or Chesapeake. She has to test a
week at a time in those locations. She has to drive to Columbus to pick up the
tests. She also has to drive to students’ houses who don’t show up for centralized
testing.
{¶37} Appellant testified she posts on Facebook to keep her older children’s
family and friends apprised as to the events in her children’s lives. Appellant
still in high school. Her daughter’s grades and social interaction improved in Alabama. Appellant testified if
necessary, she drives 10 hours to attend her daughter’s band concert or her son’s games.
Lawrence App. No. 16CA30 19
testified that the Facebook post dated September 6, 2015, showing the pictures of
her home in Alabama was not posted by her. She testified her spring break in 2015
was back to back with the younger boys’ break, and she was in Alabama during
that time. The younger boys went to the beach with her during that time. She also
testified that various posts and pictures at issue had been posted by her daughter, or
posted by Appellant but not at the time the picture was taken or not at the location
stated.10
{¶38} Appellant admitted she was relying on her memory when questioned
about which posts she made and which she did not. Approximately 4 other people
have access to her account. Sometimes, her phone gets so full she tells her
daughter to post some pictures so she could delete them from the phone but still
have them.
{¶39} Initially, we note the trial judge stated in the judgment entry as
follows:
“This case was tried before the Court’s Magistrate on Plaintiff’s
motion to be designated as residential parent of * * * and * * *. At
the conclusion of the hearing, the Magistrate found in favor of the
Plaintiff, and the Defendant’s single objection goes to that
Magistrate’s Decision. This Court has reviewed the 250 page
transcript of the hearings involved in this matter. * * * This Court,
making its own independent evaluation of the evidence, and the
weight of the same, does not place great significance upon the
10
On cross-examination, her daughter testified she did not go to bars, she did not drink alcohol, she did not take her
brother to get his driver’s license and she did not post pictures of her mother cutting the grass. She testified she
might post one or two pictures “here or there” of her mom, but she did not constantly post pictures.
Lawrence App. No. 16CA30 20
location of the E.C.O.T. equipment, even though it’s alleged it might
be used in the State of Alabama rather than in the State of Ohio.
* * * All of these factors do indicate a change in circumstances and
would cause the Court to believe that it is in the best interests of * * *
and * * * that their father (Plaintiff) be designated as their residential
parent. In making this best interest finding, the Court has reviewed
R.C. 3109.04(F)(1), which sets forth the best interest factors to be
considered in regard to these two children. The Court would find that
the most important sections would be that [A.G. and J.G.] appear to be
well adjusted in their current surroundings and that the father would
be most likely to encourage and obey the approved parenting time for
the Defendant. The Court would further find that the harm likely to
be caused by a change in environment is outweighed by the
advantages of the change of environment to [* * *]. The Court does
indicate that it reviewed all Sub-sections A through J of R.C.
3109.04(F)(1) in making this Decision.”
{¶40} Of the trial court’s six-page decision, 4 ½ pages were devoted to
discussion of the evidence. While not specifically designated findings of fact, the
trial court observed, and we summarize, that:
1) Plaintiff had an interest in completing her Ph.D. at Auburn
University and was required to be present there. She established her 2
older children there. On 2 prior occasions, Plaintiff had to file to
recover his children from Alabama with orders of the court;
2) Each time, Defendant indicated she would move back to Lawrence
County;
3) Plaintiff alleged that Defendant really was an Alabama resident
who spent so much time in Alabama, that it would be in the best
interests of the two younger boys to be placed with him as residential
parent;
4) Appellant’s friend, Mr. Bennett, stated he lived in her Alabama
home for 2 years to look after her older children. He referred to
himself as their guardian;
Lawrence App. No. 16CA30 21
5) The veracity of Appellant’s mother, who testified Appellant cared
for her after surgery during the month of March was at issue, given
that Facebook posts indicated Appellant spent a good portion of the
month of March in Alabama;
6) In the Magistrate’s Decision, the magistrate indicated information
he received from E.C.O.T. made it clear the teaching equipment could
be shuttled back and forth between locations, allowing Appellant to
fulfill her teaching contract but also spend the majority of her time in
Alabama;
7) Both parents seem to be loving and caring individuals;
8) The Court does find Appellant has had a strong and persistent
interest in Alabama; and,
9) All the factors do indicate a change in circumstances and cause the
Court to believe it is in the best interests of the minor children that
Appellee be designated the residential parent.
{¶41} Based solely on the trial court’s statement above, we have no reason
to believe that the trial court failed to make an independent review or properly
consider the statutory factors as related to the all the evidence adduced at hearing.
Furthermore, despite Appellant’s argument that, pursuant to R.C. 3109.04(F)(1)(d),
the children’s’ adjustment to home, school, and community had not been
considered, the trial court’s decision emphasized the children seemed to be well-
adjusted to their current surroundings. The trial court also commented, contrary to
Appellant’s assertion, that as relates to R.C. 3109.04(F)(1)(f), Appellee would be
more likely to honor parenting time.
Lawrence App. No. 16CA30 22
{¶42} Appellant also asserts the court interviewed the children in chambers
without stating what their answers or wishes were and therefore, did not consider
the R.C. 3109.04 (F)(1)(a) factor. Here, while the trial court did not mention in its
decision that it considered the children’s’ wishes and concerns, when there is no
evidence to the contrary, we will presume that the magistrate considered all
relevant factors in determining custody. See In re Johnson, 7th Dist. Belmont No.
00BA4, 2001-Ohio-3277, *2; Evans v. Evans, 106 Ohio App.3d 673, 677, 666
N.E.2d 1176 (12th Dist.). Absent evidence to the contrary, the fact that the court
interviewed the children is enough to demonstrate their wishes and concerns were
considered. Without more, Appellant has not provided any evidence that the court
failed to consider the children's wishes and concerns.
{¶43} Given that the trial court was in the best position to view witnesses,
weigh credibility and make an obviously difficult decision, we decline to find that
the trial court abused its discretion in designating Appellee the residential parent.
As we have commented in numerous other opinions, it appears the trial court was
faced with a difficult set of factors to evaluate. Here, we recognize that “child
custody decisions involve some of the most difficult and agonizing decisions that
trial courts are required to decide, [and that] courts must have wide latitude to
consider all of the evidence * * *.” Seymour, supra, at ¶ 28; In re E.W., at ¶ 19. See
Davis, 77 Ohio St.3d 418; Bragg v. Hatfield, 152 Ohio App.3d 174, 2003-Ohio-
Lawrence App. No. 16CA30 23
1441, 787 N.E.2d 44, ¶ 24; Hinton v. Hinton, 4th Dist. Washington No. 02CA54,
2003-Ohio-2785, at ¶ 9; Ferris v. Ferris, 4th Dist. Meigs No. 02CA4, 2003-Ohio-
1284, at ¶ 20. We also find no error of law requiring reversal. For the foregoing
reasons, we find the trial court did not abuse its discretion.
{¶44} Having found the trial court did consider all the statutory factors
required in a “best interests” analysis, we also find no merit to Appellant’s third
assignment of error and it is hereby, overruled. We proceed to consideration of the
remaining arguments raised by Appellant.
3. The “Tender Years” Doctrine
{¶45} Appellant contends the “Tender Years Doctrine” is still in practice
and that both her sons are within the age consideration for application of the
doctrine. Appellant argues that the trial court failed to properly consider the fact
that she was the primary caretaker of the minor children. Specifically, she points
out the children have resided with her since birth, and that it is difficult for
Appellee to offer primary caretaking when he works rotating shifts with only 2-3
days off each week. Appellant urges that Appellee cannot spend much time with
the boys and keep a household routine.
{¶46} In Shaffer v. Wagaman, 2nd Dist. Clark No. 2012-CA-53, 2013-
Ohio-509, ¶10, the appellate court recently stated:
“The discredited tender-years doctrine presumes that the mother is
entitled to custody of a child of tender years (absent proof that the
Lawrence App. No. 16CA30 24
mother is unfit to be the child's custodian). Martin v. Martin, 2nd Dist.
Montgomery No. 14312, 1994 WL 247194, *3 (June 8, 1994). We
have rejected “the idea that the mother should be given preference in a
custody determination merely because of the tender years of the
child.” In re Maxwell, 8 Ohio App.3d 302, 304, 456 N.E.2d 1218 (2nd
Dist.1982). But we said that “who provide[s] the ‘primary care’ for
the child prior to the custody award is however a very relevant
factor.” Id.; Davis v. Davis, 2nd Dist. Clark No. 2011–CA–71, 2012-
Ohio-418, ¶ 8, quoting Chelman v. Chelman, 2nd Dist. Greene No.
2007 CA 79, 2008-Ohio-4634, ¶ 43.”
{¶47} We recently considered a similar argument to Appellant’s in McCoy
v. Sullivan, 4th Dist. Scioto No. 16CA3751, 2016-Ohio-8276. On appeal of the
trial court’s custody decision designating the father the residential parent and legal
custodian of the parties’ four-year-old child, one argument the appellant asserted
was that the trial court failed to fully consider the mother’s role as the child’s
primary caregiver. We disagreed, however, pointing out that the record revealed
the court did, in fact, fully consider appellant's role. The trial court wrote in its
custody decision:
“* * *[T]he Magistrate was well aware that the minor child was in the
Defendant's care and custody during the child's tender years. * * *
‘[S]tatutory factors preclude any sort of presumptive quality being
given to the tender years doctrine.’ ” Id. at ¶ 19.
{¶48} In McCoy, we referenced an earlier decision in Liming v. Damos, 4th
Dist. Athens No. 08CA34, 2009-Ohio-6490, ¶¶ 21-22, where we held:
“[A]lthough not an enumerated statutory factor, a party's role as a
primary caretaker is nevertheless a relevant factor to be considered in
the best interest analysis. See Carr v. Carr, 4th Dist. Washington No.
00CA26, 2001-Ohio-2466; Holm v. Smilowitz, 83 Ohio App.3d 757,
Lawrence App. No. 16CA30 25
615 N.E.2d 1047 (4th Dist.1992); Thompson v. Thompson, 31 Ohio
App.3d 254, 259, 511 N.E.2d 412 (4th Dist.1987). However, a trial
court should not rely on a primary caretaker determination as a
substitute for a searching factual analysis of the relative parental
capabilities of the parties, and the psychological and physical
necessities of the children. Carr; Thompson. Thus, the primary
caregiver doctrine is but one factor that a court should consider in
order to determine which parent should be the residential parent, but it
should not give presumptive weight over other relevant factors. Carr;
Thompson; Winters v. Winters (Feb.24, 1994), Scioto App. No. 2112.”
McCoy at ¶ 20.
{¶49} As in McCoy, we find that the trial court considered all the relevant
factors of the best interest analysis when it considered the evidence in this case.
The trial court explicitly stated it reviewed all the statutory factors and we presume
the integrity of the court. We therefore disagree with Appellant that the trial court
failed to fully consider her role as primary caretaker to her children previously. As
such, we also find no merit to the first assignment of error and it is hereby
overruled.
4. Summary Judgment11
{¶50} Appellant first argues the trial court’s decision is based on no
concrete information or fact. Appellant points out that Dr. Ford did not testify in
person, but his report was admitted into evidence as an exhibit. She contends that
Dr. Ford should have been brought into the courtroom to discuss the entirety of his
11
Appellant designated her second assignment of error “That trial court erred in granting summary judgment to
Appellee Robert Gould.” We point out no summary judgment pursuant to Civil R. 56(C) was filed in this
proceeding. The matter came before the trial court on Appellee’s motion for custody and comes before this court on
appeal of the trial court’s judgment entry which agreed with the Magistrate’s Decision designating Appellee as the
residential parent.
Lawrence App. No. 16CA30 26
report. To begin, as stated earlier in this opinion, none of the exhibits were
admitted.
{¶51} We further point out the admission of evidence is within the sound
discretion of the trial court. State v. Huff, 4th Dist. Scioto No. 14CA3596, 2015-
Ohio-5589, ¶ 12; State v. Jackson, 4th Dist. Washington No. 12CA16, 2013-Ohio-
2628, ¶ 16; State v. Dixon, 4th Dist. Scioto No. 09CA3312, 2010-Ohio-5032, ¶ 33,
citing State v. Sage, 31 Ohio St.3d 173, 510 N.E.2d 343, (1987), at paragraph two
of the syllabus. An abuse of discretion involves more than an error of judgment; it
connotes an attitude on the part of the court that is unreasonable, unconscionable,
or arbitrary. Franklin Cty. Sheriff's Dept. v. State Emp. Relations Bd., 63 Ohio
St.3d 498, 506, 589 N.E.2d 24 (1992); Wilmington Steel Products, Inc. V.
Cleveland Elec. Illuminating Co., 60 Ohio St.3d 120, 122, 573 N.E.2d 622 (1991).
When applying the abuse of discretion standard, a reviewing court is not free to
merely substitute its judgment for that of the trial court. In re Jane Doe 1, 57 Ohio
St.3d 135, 138, 566 N.E.2d 1181 (1991), citing Berk v. Matthews, 53 Ohio St.3d
161, 169, 559 N.E.2d 1301 (1990).
{¶52} It is well-established that pro se litigants are held to the same rules,
procedures, and standards as litigants who are represented by counsel. Seymour v.
Hampton, 4th Dist. Pike No. 11CA21, 2012-Ohio-5053, ¶ 30, citing Crown Asset
Lawrence App. No. 16CA30 27
Management, LLC, v. Gaul, 4th Dist. Washington No. 08CA30, 2009-Ohio-2167,
¶ 15, citing Selvage v. Emnett, 4th Dist. Scioto No. 08CA3239, 2009-Ohio-940,
¶ 13. Litigants who choose to proceed pro se are presumed to know the law and
correct procedure, and are held to the same standards as other litigants. Capital
One Bank, v. Rodgers, 5th Dist. Muskingum No. CT2009-0049, 2010-Ohio-4421,
¶ 31.
{¶53} And, it is also well-settled that failing to object at the trial court level
to a complained of error results in a waiver of that error on appeal. Seymour, supra,
at ¶ 31; See, e.g., Goldfuss v. Davidson, 79 Ohio St.3d 116, 121, 679 N.E.2d 1099(1997); Gallagher v. Cleveland Browns Football Co., 74 Ohio St.3d 427, 436-437,
659 N.E.2d 1232 (1996). Thus, an appellate court may recognize an error that an
appellant waived only if it constitutes plain error. See, e.g., In re Etter, 134 Ohio
App.3d 484, 492, 731 N.E.2d 694 (1st Dist.1998). Courts should exercise extreme
caution when invoking the plain error doctrine, especially in civil cases. Courts
should therefore limit applying the doctrine to cases “involving exceptional
circumstances where error, to which no objection was made at the trial court,
seriously affects the basic fairness, integrity, or public reputation of the judicial
process * * *.” Goldfuss, 79 Ohio St.3d, at 122-123; see also In re Alyssa C., 153
Ohio App.3d 10, 2003-Ohio-2673, at ¶ 35, 790 N.E.2d 803; In re Curry, 4th Dist.
Lawrence App. No. 16CA30 28
Washington No. 03CA51, 2004-Ohio-750, at ¶ 42 (applying plain error doctrine,
overruled on other grounds).
{¶54} Here, Appellant did not object to the report or the fact that Dr. Ford
did not testify in person at the trial or in the Objections to the Magistrate’s Report.
Generally, “ ‘an appellate court will not consider any error which counsel for a
party complaining of the trial court's judgment could have called but did not call to
the trial court's attention at a time when such error could have been avoided or
corrected by the trial court.’ ” McCoy, supra, at ¶ 28, quoting State v. Quarterman,
130 Ohio St.3d 464, 2014-Ohio-4034, 19 N.E.3d 900, ¶ 15, citing State v. Awan,
22 Ohio St.3d 120, 122, 489 N.E.2d 277 (1986), quoting State v. Childs, 14 Ohio
St.2d 56, 236 N.E.2d 545 (1968), paragraph three of the syllabus. Consequently,
we are limited to plain-error review of this issue.
{¶55} We have addressed the court’s analysis fully above. It does not seem
that the magistrate or the trial court placed a great deal of emphasis on Dr. Ford’s
report or the testimony regarding it. As such, we disagree with Appellant’s
argument that any error occurred due to the fact that Dr. Ford did not testify in
person. Certainly, we do not find plain error occurred.
{¶56} Under the second assignment of error, Appellant also argues that
Appellee did not present a guardian ad litem report, as required by Sup.R. 48.
However, within the argument portion of her brief, she does not make any separate
Lawrence App. No. 16CA30 29
argument as to this issue. Pursuant to App.R. 16(A)(7), we are not required to
address an argument that has not been separately set forth. However, in the
interests of justice, we point out as follows:
“The ‘Rules of Superintendence are designed (1) to expedite the
disposition of both criminal and civil cases in the trial courts of this
state, while at the same time safeguarding the inalienable rights of
litigants to the just processing of their causes; and (2) to serve that
public interest which mandates the prompt disposition of all cases
before the courts.’ Seymour, supra, at ¶ 30, quoting Nolan v. Nolan,
4th Dist. Scioto No. No. 11CA3444, 2012-Ohio-3736, citing State v.
Singer, 50 Ohio St.2d 103, 109-110, 362 N.E.2d 1216 (1977). Courts
have interpreted the Rules of Superintendence as general guidelines
for the conduct of the courts that do not create substantive rights.
Singer at 110 (stating that the Rules of Superintendence are not meant
“to alter basic substantive rights”); see also In re K.G., 9th Dist.
Wayne No. 10CA16, 2010-Ohio-4399, at ¶ 11; Allen v. Allen, 11th
Dist. Trumbull No.2009–T–0070, 2010-Ohio-475, at ¶ 31. ‘They are
not the equivalent of rules of procedure and have no force equivalent
to a statute. They are purely internal housekeeping rules which are of
concern to the judges of the several courts but create no rights in
individual defendants.’ ” Nolan.
{¶57} In particular, Sup.R. 48 sets forth appointment procedures, report
requirements, and roles and responsibilities for guardians ad litem. In this case, the
record does not reflect that a guardian ad litem was appointed, nor that either party
requested the court to appoint a guardian ad litem. And, even so, while guardians
ad litem play important roles in child custody matters and in evaluating the interest
of children, their recommendations would not be binding upon this court. Seymour,
at ¶ 27; In re RN, 10th Dist. Franklin No. 04AP–130, 2004-Ohio-4420, ¶ 4. The
trial court must be free to evaluate all of the evidence and determine, based upon
Lawrence App. No. 16CA30 30
the entire record, the children's best interest. Id. (See also Walton v. Walton, 3rd
Dist. Franklin No. 14–10–21, 2011-Ohio-2487, disagreeing that the trial court
abused its discretion in failing to consider the testimony and report from a
psychologist.) As stated above, we have no reason to believe that the trial court
failed to properly consider the statutory factors relating to the all the evidence
adduced at hearing. Based upon our review of Appellant’s arguments under the
second assignment of error, we do not believe the case warrants the application of
the plain error doctrine. Accordingly, we overrule the second assignment of error.
5. The Magistrate Exhibited Bias and Prejudice
{¶58} Under the fourth assignment of error, Appellant argues the trial court
abused its discretion when the magistrate made biased and prejudicial remarks
during her testimony. She points to Jud.Cond.R. 2.3 regarding performance of
duties without bias or prejudice so as to impair the fairness of a proceeding.
Appellant contends the magistrate made opinionated remarks during her testimony
and manifested prejudice and bias by facial expressions and body language. In
particular, the magistrate commented: “[A] whole lot of teenagers use Facebook
anymore. Very few do. That I know of.”12 She argues the magistrate’s comments
were improper and an abuse of discretion. R.C. 2701.031 states as follows:
12
The magistrate’s above comment was preceded by these comments: “You know, when My Space came out, all
the kids were on it and then when us older people got on it, they left it and went to Facebook and then when us older
people got on Facebook they left that and went to Twitter and us older people got on Twitter they left it and now it’s
Snapchat or something else or something else.”
Lawrence App. No. 16CA30 31
“If a judge of a municipal or county court allegedly is interested in a
proceeding pending before the judge, allegedly is related to or has a
bias or prejudice for or against a party to a proceeding pending before
the judge or to a party's counsel, or allegedly otherwise is disqualified
to preside in a proceeding pending before the judge, any party to the
proceeding or the party's counsel may file an affidavit of
disqualification with the clerk of the supreme court. The affidavit of
disqualification shall be filed and decided in accordance with
divisions (B) to (E) of section 2701.03 of the Revised Code, and, upon
the filing of the affidavit, the provisions of those divisions apply to the
affidavit, the proceeding, the judge, and the parties to the proceeding.”
{¶59} “Judicial bias is ‘a hostile feeling or spirit of ill will or undue
friendship or favoritism toward one of the litigants or his attorney, with the
formation of a fixed anticipatory judgment on the part of the judge, as
contradistinguished from an open state of mind which will be governed by law and
the facts.’ ” Viars v. Ironton, 4th Dist. Lawrence No. 16CA8, 2016-Ohio-4912,
quoting Cooke v. Bowen, 4th Dist. Scioto No. 12CA3497, 2013-Ohio-4771, ¶ 9-11,
quoting State v. LaMar, 95 Ohio St.3d 181, 2002-Ohio-2128, 767 N.E.2d 166,
¶ 34. R.C. 2701.03 provides the exclusive means by which a litigant can assert that
a common pleas judge is biased or prejudiced and requires an affidavit of prejudice
to be filed with the Supreme Court of Ohio. A court of appeals lacks “authority to
pass upon disqualification or to void the judgment of the trial court upon that
basis.” Beer v. Griffith, 54 Ohio St.2d 440, 441-442, 377 N.E.2d 775 (1978).
{¶60} Appellant supports her argument with the above-referenced comment
Lawrence App. No. 16CA30 32
the magistrate made about teenagers’ use of Facebook and referencing his facial
expressions and body language. “Trial judges are ‘presumed not to be biased or
prejudiced, and the party alleging bias or prejudice must set forth evidence to
overcome the presumption of integrity.’ ” Viars at ¶ 58, quoting Rick's Foreign
Exchange Co. v. Greenlee, 2nd Dist. Montgomery No. 26096, 2014-Ohio-4505,
¶ 28. “The appearance of bias or prejudice must be compelling to overcome these
presumptions.” Id.; In re Jorgensen, 5th Dist. Licking No. 07–CA–96, 2008-Ohio-
2967, ¶ 245-246; see generally State v. Dean, 127 Ohio St.3d 140, 2010-Ohio-
5070, 937 N.E.2d 97, ¶ 2. It is impossible for this court to consider vague
complaints of the magistrate’s facial expressions and body language when the
alleged actions or conduct cannot be reflected in this record. As such, per our
review of the record before us, we find no evidence of any judicial bias or
prejudice to overcome the presumption of judicial integrity.
{¶61} Finally, Appellant also contends the magistrate overstepped his
authority by interrogating her with regard to her employment. Specifically,
Appellant states the Magistrate spoke with E.C.O.T. personnel regarding the
mobility of the E.C.O.T. equipment. Appellant also points to conversations on
August 30, 2016 and August 31, 2016, when the magistrate spoke with Appellant’s
middle school principal, the E.C.O.T. president, and the E.C.O.T. IT personnel.
However, she states there is no report as to what was discussed and no mention in
Lawrence App. No. 16CA30 33
the transcript that either counsel permitted the magistrate to contact E.C.O.T.
personnel in regards to equipment.
{¶62} We observe that in Appellant’s Objections to the Magistrate’s report,
page 4, Appellant acknowledges that, outside of the court, the magistrate asked
counsel for both parties for permission to speak with E.C.O.T. personnel regarding
the mobility of the ECOT equipment. Appellant further argues in her Objections at
pages 4-5 that the conversations should have been recorded for later review.
{¶63} Under these circumstances, we conclude that Appellant invited any
error. See In the Matter of: A.S. and J.S., 4th Dist. Pike Nos. 16CA878 and
16CA879, 2017-Ohio-1166, ¶ 41. State v. Jackson, 149 Ohio St.3d 55, 2016–
Ohio–5488, 73 N.E.3d 414, ¶ 108, quoting State ex rel. Kline v. Carroll, 96 Ohio
St.3d 404, 2002–Ohio–4849, 775 N.E.2d 517, ¶ 27, citing Lester v. Leuck, 142
Ohio St. 91, 50 N.E.2d 145 (1943), paragraph one of the syllabus (“Under the
invited-error doctrine, ‘a party is not entitled to take advantage of an error that he
himself invited or induced the court to make.’ ”); Id. at ¶ 122 (noting that invited
error doctrine applies “when a party * * * affirmatively consented to a procedure
that the trial court proposed”). For the foregoing reasons, we find no merit to
Appellant’s fourth assignment of error. As such, it is hereby overruled.
Lawrence App. No. 16CA30 34
CONCLUSION
{¶64} In these cases, we afford great deference to the factfinder’s decision,
given the trier of facts is in the best position to assess demeanor and other
indicators of credibility. Based on the record, we find substantial credible and
competent evidence supporting the trial court’s decision. As stated, we find no
abuse of discretion and no plain error. Accordingly, the judgment of the trial court
is affirmed.
JUDGMENT AFFIRMED.
Lawrence App. No. 16CA30 35
JUDGMENT ENTRY
It is ordered that the JUDGMENT BE AFFIRMED and that the Appellee
recover of Appellant any costs herein.
The Court finds there were reasonable grounds for this appeal.
It is ordered that a special mandate issue out of this Court directing the
Lawrence County Common Pleas Court, Domestic Relations Division, to carry this
judgment into execution.
Any stay previously granted by this Court is hereby terminated as of the date
of this entry.
A certified copy of this entry shall constitute the mandate pursuant to Rule
27 of the Rules of Appellate Procedure.
Harsha, J. & Hoover, J.: Concur in Judgment Only.
For the Court,
BY: ______________________________
Matthew W. McFarland, Judge
NOTICE TO COUNSEL
Pursuant to Local Rule No. 14, this document constitutes a final
judgment entry and the time period for further appeal commences from the
date of filing with the clerk.