[Cite as Severns v. Foster, 2019-Ohio-909.]

IN THE COURT OF APPEALS OF OHIO 

THIRD APPELLATE DISTRICT 

MARION COUNTY 

 

JOHN SEVERNS, 

 PLAINTIFF-APPELLEE, CASE NO. 9-18-21 

 

 v. 

AMBER FOSTER, O P I N I O N 

 DEFENDANT-APPELLANT. 

 

Appeal from Marion County Common Pleas Court 

Family Division 

Trial Court No. 16 PC 0105 

Judgment Affirmed 

Date of Decision: March 18, 2019 

 

APPEARANCES: 

 

Joel M. Spitzer for Appellant 

 Rocky Ratliff for Appellee 
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PRESTON, J. 

{¶1} Defendant-appellant, Amber Foster (“Foster”), appeals the May 30, 

2018 judgment of the Marion County Court of Common Pleas, Family Division, 

designating plaintiff-appellee, John Severns (“Severns”), as residential parent and 

legal custodian of A.S., Foster and Severns’s minor daughter. For the reasons that 

follow, we affirm. 

{¶2} On November 16, 2015, Foster gave birth to a daughter, A.S. Foster 

and Severns have never married. In the months immediately following A.S.’s birth, 

Foster and Severns tried to work on their relationship while co-parenting A.S. (See 

Apr. 17, 2018 Tr. at 98-100). However, their efforts proved unsuccessful. 

{¶3} On June 10, 2016, Severns filed a complaint requesting “that he be 

awarded custody of [A.S.] or in the alternative be awarded shared parenting.” (Doc. 

No. 1). That same day, Severns filed a motion for ex parte temporary orders asking 

the trial court to designate him as A.S.’s legal custodian during the pendency of the 

case. (Doc. No. 2). On June 14, 2016, the trial court denied Severns’s motion for 

ex parte temporary orders. (Doc. No. 6). 

{¶4} On July 7, 2016, the trial court issued temporary orders granting 

Severns parenting time with A.S. for a period of four hours on Tuesdays and 

Thursdays and for a period of four hours every other Saturday and Sunday in 

accordance with Marion County Family Court Rule 32. (Doc. No. 11). 
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{¶5} On October 3, 2016, Foster filed a motion to establish child support. 

(Doc. No. 20). That same day, Foster filed a motion requesting that the trial court 

appoint a guardian ad litem (“GAL”) to evaluate A.S.’s best interest. (Doc. No. 23). 

On October 20, 2016, Severns filed a response to Foster’s motion to appoint a GAL 

in which he did not oppose Foster’s motion. (Doc. No. 24). On November 1, 2016, 

the trial court granted Foster’s motion to appoint a GAL and appointed a GAL for 

A.S. (Doc. No. 32). 

{¶6} On October 20, 2016, Severns filed a motion for shared parenting along 

with a proposed shared parenting plan. (Doc. No. 26). 

{¶7} On November 8, 2016, Severns filed a motion and an amended motion 

for holiday visitation. (Doc. Nos. 34, 37). On November 15, 2016, the trial court 

issued agreed temporary orders granting Severns parenting time with A.S. “pursuant 

to Local Rule 32a for the upcoming holidays and/or until this case is resolved.” 

(Doc. No. 38). In addition, the trial court designated Severns as “the non-residential 

parent for holiday visitation purposes during the pendency of this matter.” (Id.). 

{¶8} On April 27, 2017, Foster filed a motion for leave to file her answer to 

Severns’s June 10, 2016 complaint out of rule. (Doc. No. 58). On May 1, 2017, the 

trial court granted Foster’s motion to file her answer out of rule. (Doc. No. 59). 

That same day, Foster filed her answer to Severns’s complaint as well as a 
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counterclaim requesting that the trial court establish child support, among other 

things. (Doc. No. 60). 

{¶9} On May 9, 2017, Severns filed a motion to increase parenting time. 

(Doc. No. 61). On June 29, 2017, Severns filed a motion for new temporary orders. 

(Doc. No. 67). That same day, Foster filed a narrative affidavit regarding temporary 

orders. (Doc. No. 69). On August 15, 2017, the trial court issued agreed modified 

temporary orders granting Severns parenting time with A.S. on Mondays from 8:00 

a.m. until 12:00 p.m., Tuesdays from 8:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m., and on weekends in 

accordance with Marion County Family Court Rule 32(A). (Doc. No. 74). In 

addition, the trial court ordered that Foster’s weekend parenting time with A.S. 

coincide with her weekend parenting time with A.S.’s half-sister granted in case 

number 15-PC-211. (See id.). 

{¶10} The GAL filed his final report on April 6, 2018. (Doc. No. 84). 

{¶11} A final hearing was held on April 16 and 17, 2018. (See Doc. No. 93); 

(Apr. 16, 2018 Tr. at 1); (Apr. 17, 2018 Tr. at 1). On May 30, 2018, the trial court 

filed its judgment designating Severns as the residential parent of A.S. (Doc. No. 

93). The trial court granted Foster parenting time with A.S. in accordance with 

Marion County Family Court Rule 32(A) and ordered that Foster’s parenting time 

with A.S. coincide with Foster’s parenting time with A.S.’s half-sister. (Id.). In 
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addition, Foster was ordered to pay Severns $231.46 per month in child support. 

(Id.). 

{¶12} Foster filed a notice of appeal on June 28, 2018. (Doc. No. 94). She 

raises three assignments of error, which we will address together. 

Assignment of Error No. I

In support of the initial determination of parental rights and 

responisbilities [sic] for the minor child, the trial court erred as a 

matter of law and abused its discretion by determining there was 

sufficient evidence the parents could not make decisions jointly 

pursuant of Ohio Revised Code 3109.04 

Assignment of Error No. II 

In support of the initial determination of parental rights and 

responsibilities for the minor child and pursuant of Ohio Revised 

Code 3109.04, the trial court erred against the weight of the 

evidence and abused its discretion in determining that the 

plaintiff-apellee [sic] should be granted cusotdy[sic]. 

Assignment of Error No. III 

In support of initial determination of parental rights and 

responsibilities for the minor child and pursuant of Ohio Revised 

Code 3109.04, the trial court erred and abused its discretion in 

determining that the defendant-appellant would not facilitate 

court ordered visitation. 

{¶13} In her first, second, and third assignments of error, Foster argues that 

the trial court erred by designating Severns as the residential parent and legal 

custodian of A.S. Although unclear from her appellate brief, Foster appears to 

advance two arguments in support of her assignments of error. First, Foster argues 
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that the trial court’s best-interest findings under R.C. 3109.04(F)(1), specifically its 

findings that Severns and Foster cannot communicate and that Foster would not 

facilitate court-ordered visitation, are “unsubstantiated as they were based solely on 

a lack of credible evidence” or suspect because they are based on Severns’s “selftestimony.” (Appellant’s Brief at 7-8). In addition, Foster argues that rather than 

weighing the R.C. 3109.04(F)(1) best-interest factors “as an accumulative whole, 

the trial judge imperceptibly and unconscionably gave prevailing weight of the 

measures of the statute essentially to a single factor.” (Id. at 7). However, Foster 

does not clearly identify this determinative factor. In addition, as part of this 

argument, Foster contends that the trial court designated Severns as A.S.’s 

residential parent and legal custodian without giving proper weight to the GAL’s 

shared-parenting recommendation. (Id. at 10). 

{¶14} “‘Decisions concerning child custody matters rest within the sound 

discretion of the trial court.’” Krill v. Krill, 3d Dist. Defiance No. 4-13-15, 2014-

Ohio-2577, ¶ 26, quoting Walker v. Walker, 3d Dist. Marion No. 9-12-15, 2013-

Ohio-1496, ¶ 46, citing Wallace v. Willoughby, 3d Dist. Shelby No. 17-10-15, 2011-

Ohio-3008, ¶ 22 and Miller v. Miller, 37 Ohio St.3d 71, 74 (1988). “‘“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.”’” Id., quoting Walker at ¶ 46, quoting Barto v. 
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Barto, 3d Dist. Hancock No. 5-08-14, 2008-Ohio-5538, ¶ 25 and Bechtol v. Bechtol, 

49 Ohio St.3d 21 (1990), syllabus. “‘Accordingly, an abuse of discretion must be 

found in order to reverse the trial court’s award of child custody.’” Id., quoting 

Walker at ¶ 46, citing Barto at ¶ 25 and Masters v. Masters, 69 Ohio St.3d 83, 85 

(1994). “‘An abuse of discretion suggests the trial court’s decision is unreasonable 

or unconscionable.’” Id., quoting Brammer v. Meachem, 3d Dist. Marion No. 9-10-

43, 2011-Ohio-519, ¶ 14, citing Blakemore v. Blakemore, 5 Ohio St.3d 217, 219 

(1983). 

{¶15} Here, we observe that throughout her appellate brief, Foster 

incorrectly characterizes the trial court’s May 30, 2018 judgment as a 

“modification” of an existing decree allocating Severns’s and her parental rights. 

(E.g., Appellant’s Brief at 10) (“[T]he trial judge failed to prove that the 

modification of the parental rights and responsibilities was necessary * * * to serve 

the best interests of the child[] * * *.”). Rather than being a modification of an 

existing custody decree, the trial court’s May 30, 2018 judgment was the product of 

an original proceeding to determine custody. 

{¶16} Because A.S. was born out of wedlock, custody of A.S. was controlled 

by R.C. 3109.042 at the time Severns filed his complaint in June 2016. R.C. 

3109.042 provides, in relevant part: 
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An unmarried female who gives birth to a child is the sole residential 

parent and legal custodian of the child until a court of competent 

jurisdiction issues an order designating another person as the 

residential parent and legal custodian. 

R.C. 3109.042(A). Prior to the trial court’s May 30, 2018 judgment, no court had 

issued an initial decree allocating Severns’s and Foster’s parental rights. Thus, until 

the May 30, 2018 judgment, Foster served as A.S.’s residential parent and legal 

custodian by operation of law. Yet, “even though the unmarried mother is the 

residential parent until a court order says otherwise, when the court is first asked to 

issue an order, the matter is considered an original custody determination rather than 

a ruling on a request for modification of a prior custody determination.” In re J.K., 

7th Dist. Carroll No. 14 CA 899, 2014-Ohio-5502, ¶ 26, citing In re S.S.L.S., 7th 

Dist. Columbiana No. 12CO8, 2013-Ohio-3026, ¶ 16, Maine v. Jones, 7th Dist. 

Mahoning No. 06MA191, 2007-Ohio-5043, ¶ 55, 57, Francis v. Westfall, 7th Dist. 

Jefferson Nos. 03JE20 and 03JE21, 2004-Ohio-4543, ¶ 15, and DeWitt v. Myers, 2d 

Dist. Clark No. 08-CA-86, 2009-Ohio-807, ¶ 14-16. Similarly, “‘Ohio law provides 

that R.C. 3109.04(E), concerning modification of a prior decree, is inapplicable to 

temporary orders with custody pending.’” Id. at ¶ 27, quoting Gomez v. Gomez, 7th 

Dist. Noble No. 06 NO 330, 2007-Ohio-1559, ¶ 14, citing State ex rel. Thompson v. 

Spon, 83 Ohio St.3d 551, 554-555 (1998). Hence, while Foster acted as A.S.’s 
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residential parent since her birth and was identified as A.S.’s residential parent and 

legal custodian in various temporary orders throughout the pendency of this case, 

the trial court did not effect a “modification” within the meaning of R.C. 3109.04(E) 

when it designated Severns as A.S.’s residential parent and legal custodian. Instead, 

the trial court’s May 30, 2018 judgment is the product of an original proceeding to 

determine custody though it changed the identity of A.S.’s residential parent and 

legal custodian. 

{¶17} “When making the allocation of the parental rights and responsibilities 

for the care of the children under this section in an original proceeding * * *, the 

court shall take into account that which would be in the best interest of the children.” 

R.C. 3109.04(B)(1). “‘[T]he best interest standard must be applied in initial actions 

to allocate parental rights in cases involving children of unmarried parents as well 

as in the context of divorce, dissolution, or annulment.’” Loewen v. Newsome, 9th 

Dist. Summit No. 28107, 2018-Ohio-73, ¶ 16, quoting Anthony v. Wolfram, 9th Dist. 

Lorain No. 98CA007129, 1999 WL 771601, *2 (Sept. 29, 1999). R.C. 

3109.04(F)(1) provides: 

In determining the best interest of a child pursuant to this section, 

whether on an original decree allocating parental rights and 

responsibilities for the care of children or a modification of a decree 
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allocating those rights and responsibilities, the court shall 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 

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; 
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(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 

abusive or neglectful act that is the basis of an adjudication; whether 

either parent or any member of the household of either parent 

previously has been convicted of or 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 whether there is 

reason to believe that either parent has acted in a manner resulting in 

a child being an abused child or a neglected child; 
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(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. 

R.C. 3109.04(F)(1)(a)-(j). 

{¶18} “The trial court ‘has discretion in determining which factors are 

relevant,’ and ‘each factor may not necessarily carry the same weight or have the 

same relevance, depending upon the facts before the trial court.’” Krill, 2014-Ohio2577, at ¶ 29, quoting Brammer v. Brammer, 3d Dist. Marion No. 9-12-57, 2013-

Ohio-2843, ¶ 41, citing Hammond v. Harm, 9th Dist. Summit No. 23993, 2008-

Ohio-2310, ¶ 51. “Although the trial court must consider all relevant factors, there 

is no requirement that the trial court set out an analysis for each of the factors in its 

judgment entry, so long as the judgment entry is supported by some competent, 

credible evidence.” Id., citing Meachem, 2011-Ohio-519, at ¶ 30, citing Portentoso 

v. Portentoso, 3d Dist. Seneca No. 13-07-03, 2007-Ohio-5770, ¶ 22. 

{¶19} In its May 30, 2018 judgment, the trial court specifically mentioned 

and analyzed each of the best-interest factors set forth in R.C. 3109.04(F)(1). (Doc. 

No. 93). After making findings responsive to each of the R.C. 3109.04(F)(1) best-
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interest factors, the trial court concluded that “it is in the best interest of the child 

that [Severns] be named residential parent of [A.S.]” (Id.). Thus, there is little 

question that the trial court considered all of the enumerated best-interest factors as 

required by R.C. 3109.04(F)(1). 

{¶20} Nevertheless, Foster contends that the trial court’s R.C. 3109.04(F)(1) 

best-interest findings are not supported by the record. Specifically, she argues that 

the “trial court’s findings that the parents could not communicate and that [Foster] 

would not facilitate court ordered visitation are unsubstantiated as they were based 

solely on a lack of credible evidence.” (Appellant’s Brief at 7). She argues further 

that the trial court erred by relying on Severns’s “self-testimony.” (Id. at 8). 

However, we conclude that competent, credible evidence supports each of the trial 

court’s best-interest findings and that the trial court did not err by crediting 

Severns’s testimony. As a result, Foster’s argument is without merit. 

{¶21} First, with regard to R.C. 3109.04(F)(1)(a)—the wishes of the child’s 

parents regarding the child’s care—the trial court found that Severns filed a motion 

for shared parenting “asking to be named residential parent for school, medical and 

extracurricular purposes” and that he proposed a “two/two/three shared parenting 

plan.” (Doc. No. 93). As to Foster, the trial court found that she “seeks to be named 

residential parent and legal custodian of [A.S.]” and that she wanted Severns to have 

“parenting time every other weekend and Tuesday during the day.” (Id.). In 
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Severns’s motion for shared parenting, he requested that he be named residential 

parent and legal custodian of A.S. but proposed a shared-parenting plan in lieu of 

being named residential parent of A.S. (Doc. No. 26). Moreover, Severns testified 

that he wanted to be residential parent and legal custodian for purposes of medical 

and school decisions and extracurricular activities but that he would be willing to 

parent A.S. pursuant to a two-two-three shared parenting plan if necessary. (See 

Apr. 16, 2018 Tr. at 243, 314-317). On the other hand, Foster maintained that she 

wanted to be A.S.’s residential parent and legal custodian with visitation to Severns 

on Tuesdays and every other weekend. (Apr. 16, 2018 Tr. at 156); (Apr. 17, 2018 

Tr. at 109). She further testified that Severns should “[a]bsolutely not” be 

designated as A.S.’s residential parent. (Apr. 17, 2018 Tr. at 249). Thus, the record 

supports the trial court’s findings as to R.C. 3109.04(F)(1)(a). 

{¶22} As to R.C. 3109.04(F)(1)(b)—the wishes and concerns of the child 

regarding the allocation of parental rights as expressed to the trial court in an inchambers interview pursuant to R.C. 3109.04(B)—the trial court noted that it did 

not interview A.S. (Doc. No. 93). “Absent a request by either party for the trial 

court to interview the children in chambers, the trial court was allowed, but not 

required, to do so.” Krill, 2014-Ohio-2577, at ¶ 35, citing R.C. 3109.04(B)(1) and 

In re Marriage of Munnings, 11th Dist. Geauga No. 2005-G-2622, 2006-Ohio-3230, 

¶ 18. Given that A.S. was less than two and a half years old at the time of the 
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custody hearing and that the record does not suggest that either party asked the trial 

court to interview her, the trial court’s decision not to interview A.S. was 

appropriate. See id. at ¶ 36. Accordingly, R.C. 3109.04(F)(1)(b) is inapplicable to 

the facts of this case. 

{¶23} With regard to R.C. 3109.04(F)(1)(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—the trial court found that A.S. “has a 

half-sister she is able to visit on [Foster’s] parenting time.” (Doc. No. 93). The trial 

court further found that A.S. “knows and interacts with both maternal and paternal 

family members” and that A.S.’s “[p]aternal grandmother provides child care for 

[A.S.]” (Id.). The record supports each of the trial court’s R.C. 3109.04(F)(1)(c) 

findings. First, the record establishes that A.S. interacts regularly with her halfsister and that the two have a good relationship. In addition to Foster’s extensive 

testimony documenting the close relationship between A.S. and her half-sister, 

Foster’s mother, Sharon Foster (“Sharon”), testified that A.S. and her half-sister are 

“very close.” (Apr. 17, 2018 Tr. at 36). Sharon further testified, “An older child 

mothers the younger child. So * * * [A.S. and her half-sister are] very, very close.” 

(Id.). In addition, Foster produced numerous photographs depicting, for example, 

A.S. playing with her half-sister and A.S.’s half-sister reading to A.S. (See 
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Defendant’s Ex. J). Therefore, the record thoroughly supports that A.S. has a close, 

loving relationship with her half-sister. 

{¶24} The record also demonstrates that A.S. knows and interacts with both 

maternal and paternal family members. Regarding A.S.’s interactions with Foster’s 

family, Defendant’s Exhibit J contains numerous photographs portraying A.S. 

accompanying Foster to various family functions and interacting happily with her 

maternal grandparents as well as other members of Foster’s family. (See 

Defendant’s Ex. J). Additionally, Sharon described Foster’s family as “tight” and 

testified that A.S. regularly sees Foster’s family and plays with her cousins and other 

more-distant relatives. (Apr. 17, 2018 Tr. at 40-42). As to A.S.’s relationship with 

Severns’s family, Barbara Severns (“Barbara”), Severns’s mother, testified that she 

helps Severns take care of A.S. on Mondays and Tuesdays. (Apr. 16, 2018 Tr. at 4-

5). She testified that she also takes care of A.S.’s cousins when watching A.S. (Id.). 

Barbara also said that Severns would occasionally work during his parenting time 

with A.S. and that she, her husband, or Severns’s sister would look after A.S. (Id.

at 14-15). Furthermore, Lynn Jackson (“Jackson”), Severns’s sister, testified that 

A.S. gets along well with her children, A.S.’s cousins. (Id. at 62-63). She further 

testified that, if Severns were designated residential parent, she would be able to 

keep A.S. overnight or babysit her while Severns is at work. (Id. at 96-99). Finally, 

Severns testified that A.S. frequently interacts with his family and that she is well-
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bonded with her grandparents, aunt, and cousins. (Id. at 197). Thus, the record 

supports that A.S. knows and interacts with both maternal and paternal family 

members. 

{¶25} Finally, the record establishes that A.S.’s paternal grandmother, 

Barbara, often cares for A.S. As discussed above, Barbara testified that she cares 

for A.S. whenever Severns has to work during his parenting time. (Id. at 4-5, 14-

15). In addition, Barbara testified that, if Severns were awarded custody, she would 

be willing and able to care for A.S. whenever Severns has to work. (Id. at 50-52). 

{¶26} Regarding R.C. 3109.04(F)(1)(d)—the child’s adjustment to the 

child’s home, school, and community—the trial court found that A.S. “appears to 

be adjusted to both parties’ homes.” (Doc. No. 93). The trial court further found 

that A.S. is not yet of school age and that she “has the opportunity to see her half 

sibling * * * on a regular basis.” (Id.). The record supports the trial court’s R.C. 

3109.04(F)(1)(d) findings. First, as discussed in detail above, the record clearly 

establishes that A.S. has a close relationship with her half-sister and that she and her 

half-sister have regular visits in Foster’s home. In addition, because A.S. was less 

than three years old at the time of the hearing, it is uncontested that she is not yet of 

school age. 

{¶27} There is also ample evidence in the record supporting the trial court’s 

finding that A.S. is adjusted to both Severns’s and Foster’s home. A.S. lived 
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primarily with Foster from birth, and multiple witnesses testified that A.S. is happy 

and well-adjusted in Foster’s home and that Foster provides good structure and care 

for A.S. (See Apr. 17, 2018 Tr. at 33-36, 42-45, 249, 281). Moreover, the GAL 

reported that Foster’s “home is always clean and appropriate” and that Foster “is 

very successful in providing a warm and loving environment which allows [A.S. 

and her half-sister] to thrive.” (Doc. No. 84). Regarding A.S.’s adjustment to 

Severns’s home, Foster expressed some concerns about the cleanliness of Severns’s 

prior residences. (See Apr. 17, 2018 Tr. at 126-127). However, the GAL reported 

that in “all of [his] home visits, [Severns’s] house has been clean and appropriate.” 

(Doc. No. 84). In addition, the GAL reported that during a home visit, Severns was 

“very appropriate” with A.S. and that A.S. “was very happy to be with her father.” 

(Id.). Finally, the record reflects that Severns has established a residence with which 

A.S. is familiar. Although Severns moved multiple times during the first two years 

of A.S.’s life, two weeks prior to the final custody hearing, he signed a one-year 

lease for the residence he had been living in since early 2017 with a roommate, Ben 

Caldwell (“Caldwell”). (Plaintiff’s Ex. 2). (See Doc. No. 46). While Foster 

expressed some concern about Caldwell due to his prior criminal convictions for 

drug abuse and possession and allegations that he used marijuana around A.S., the 

record reflects that, as of April 2018, Caldwell is no longer residing in the residence 

with Severns and only Severns and A.S. use the premises as their residence. (See 
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Apr. 16, 2018 Tr. at 184, 258); (See Apr. 17, 2018 Tr. at 138); (See Plaintiff’s Ex. 

2); (See Defendant’s Ex. A). Altogether, the record supports the trial court’s R.C. 

3109.04(F)(1)(d) findings. 

{¶28} With respect to R.C. 3109.04(F)(1)(e)—the mental and physical health 

of all persons involved in the situation—the trial court found that while A.S. appears 

to be in good health overall, she has not received all of her childhood vaccinations. 

(Doc. No. 93). The trial court found that Foster “practices a holistic medicine 

approach” and that despite her testimony that she would have A.S.’s vaccines 

completed, she had yet to do so. (Id.). In addition, the trial court made findings 

concerning Severns’s and Foster’s physical and mental health. As to Severns, the 

trial court found that he recently suffered a seizure. (Id.). However, the trial court 

also found that Severns underwent a CAT scan and “there were no adverse 

neurological findings.” (Id.). With respect to Foster, the trial court found that she 

once “became depressed and expressed ideations of self-harm.” (Id.). The trial 

court noted that it appears that Foster did not actually cause herself harm. (Id.). 

{¶29} The record demonstrates that A.S. is generally in good health, happy, 

well-fed, and in a nurturing environment. (See Apr. 16, 2018 Tr. at 21-22, 76, 78-

79); (See Apr. 17, 2018 Tr. at 32, 181, 281). However, the record also establishes 

that A.S. is not current on her vaccinations. (See Apr. 16, 2018 Tr. at 119-120, 139, 

177). Foster acknowledged that she was “the one to make the decision not to 
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vaccinate” A.S. (Id. at 124). Foster testified that although A.S. has received some 

vaccinations and that she is not “100%” opposed to vaccination, A.S. has not been 

administered vaccinations in accordance with standard immunization schedules. 

(See Apr. 17, 2018 Tr. at 181-182); (See Plaintiff’s Ex. 3). She testified that she 

does intend to continue vaccinating A.S. but that she wishes to do so by means of a 

“slow process of introducing” them to A.S. (Apr. 17, 2018 Tr. at 182). She 

acknowledged that she would vaccinate A.S. if ordered to do so by the court but that 

she “would like to do one once a month” and that her nurse practitioner did not 

disapprove of this plan. (Id. at 182-183). Severns expressed concerns about A.S.’s 

vaccinations, noting that A.S. is not current on vaccines and that he would “like her 

to be current on vaccines she can get now.” (Apr. 16, 2018 Tr. at 198). 

{¶30} The record also supports the trial court’s finding that Foster takes a 

“holistic” or “organic” approach to medicine. Both Severns and Barbara described 

Foster’s approach to medicine as “holistic.” (See Apr. 16, 2018 Tr. at 10-11, 203-

204). Likewise, the GAL agreed that Foster takes a more holistic approach to 

medicine. (Apr. 17, 2018 Tr. at 266). He testified that Foster “is less traditional * 

* * in her medical views” and that there is “a tendency for more organic, natural, 

homeopathic, [and] vegetarian” approaches. (Id.). However, he stressed that Foster 

“does give medicine.” (Id.). Furthermore, when Foster was asked whether she 

believed in holistic medicine, she responded that she “believe[s] in organic.” (Apr. 
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16, 2018 Tr. at 176). She testified that she does not “give medicine unless it’s 

necessary.” (Id. at 177). However, she emphasized that she does take A.S. to the 

doctor and administers medicine when necessary and that she would absolutely take 

A.S. to the hospital to treat a life-threatening illness. (Id. at 138); (Apr. 17, 2018 

Tr. at 180-181). Thus, although the record demonstrates that Foster does not 

entirely reject traditional medicine, it also supports that she does take a “holistic” or 

“organic” approach to treatment when possible. 

{¶31} In addition, the record establishes that while Severns suffered at least 

one seizure, neurological testing did not reveal any abnormalities. Barbara testified 

that Severns once suffered a seizure while driving and that she was not certain 

whether Severns sought treatment. (Apr. 16, 2018 Tr. at 12-13). However, she 

denied knowledge of any additional seizures suffered by Severns. (Id. at 14). 

Severns himself testified that he suffered a seizure in 2016. (Id. at 207). He testified 

that afterward, he went to the doctor where they “did a CT scan.” (Id. at 208). 

Severns stated that the doctor “said there was nothing they could see” and that he 

believes that meant that nothing was wrong. (Id.). 

{¶32} Finally, the record supports the trial court’s findings regarding 

Foster’s mental health. Foster testified that after the father of A.S.’s half-sister was 

designated as the child’s residential parent, she was very upset. (Apr. 17, 2018 Tr. 

at 134-136). Severns testified that Foster confided in him that she wanted to commit 
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suicide or run away. (Apr. 16, 2018 Tr. at 217-218). He stated that he was 

concerned for her safety. (Id. at 218). Foster conceded that she once stated to 

Severns that she wished she could die and that she might have mentioned wanting 

to run away, but she insisted that she was just venting her frustrations to Severns. 

(Apr. 17, 2018 Tr. at 227, 246, 259-260). Foster flatly denied that she was actually 

suicidal. (Id. at 260). In addition, Sharon testified that she did not interpret Foster’s 

behavior after A.S.’s half-sister’s father was named residential parent as stemming 

from mental illness but rather as an expression of grief over the change in custody. 

(Id. at 38-39). Sharon further testified that she did not believe that Foster’s behavior 

indicated that she wanted to harm herself. (Id. at 39). Indeed, the record contains 

no evidence that Foster harmed herself or that her emotional issues persisted to the 

day of the final hearing. In sum, the record supports each of the trial court’s findings 

under R.C. 3109.04(F)(1)(e). 

{¶33} Because they concern interrelated issues, we address the trial court’s 

findings under R.C. 3109.04(F)(1)(f) and (i) together. As to R.C. 

3109.04(F)(1)(f)—the parent more likely to honor and facilitate court-approved 

parenting time rights or visitation and companionship rights—the trial court noted 

that the “primary issue in this case is parenting time.” (Doc. No. 93). It found that 

Severns “has been willing to share parenting responsibilities with” Foster whereas 

Foster “desires to be named residential parent and legal custodian of the child.” 
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(Id.). With respect to R.C. 3109.04(F)(1)(i)—whether the residential parent has 

continuously and willfully denied the other parent’s right to parenting time in 

accordance with an order of the court—the trial court found that the “parties have 

been operating under a Shared Parenting Order with [Foster] as residential parent 

and [Severns] having parenting time on a two/two/three day basis.” (Id.). Although 

the trial court found that “there has been compliance with the plan,” it also found 

that Foster is “frequently late for drop off and pick up.” (Id.). Finally, the trial court 

found that Foster had denied Severns’s requests for additional time with A.S. (Id.). 

{¶34} First, the trial court’s findings regarding Severns’s and Foster’s wishes 

for parenting time are supported by the record. Although Severns testified at various 

times that he wanted to be the sole residential parent and legal custodian of A.S., he 

also stated that he would not object to a more equitable division of parenting time 

and responsibilities. (See Apr. 16, 2018 Tr. at 314-315). On the other hand, Foster 

steadfastly insisted on being A.S.’s sole residential parent and legal custodian. (Apr. 

17, 2018 Tr. at 156, 192, 249). However, she did concede that she wanted at least 

a 50-50 division of parenting time if the trial court did not designate her as sole 

residential parent. (Id. at 198). 

{¶35} The record also supports that although Foster generally complied with 

the parenting plan set forth in the various temporary orders, she was frequently late 

for drop-offs and pickups. Foster testified that she always tried to comply with the 
Case No. 9-18-21 

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court’s visitation orders and that she never wanted to withhold A.S. from Severns. 

(Id. at 142-143). However, she admitted that she was frequently late in dropping 

off A.S. with Severns for visitation and often tardy in picking A.S. up from 

visitations. (Id. at 159, 218-221). Similarly, Severns testified that Foster does not 

drop A.S. off on time and she does not always tell him that she is going to be late. 

(Apr. 16, 2018 Tr. at 189). Severns testified that when Foster is late, he tries to 

make up time with A.S. by keeping her later on the day Foster is late or on a different 

day, and Foster allows him to do so. (Id. at 225); (Apr. 17, 2018 Tr. at 159). In 

addition, Barbara testified that Foster dropped off A.S. on time on only a handful of 

occasions and that she was usually an hour or more late. (Apr. 16, 2018 Tr. at 6). 

Finally, multiple text message exchanges between Severns and Foster were 

introduced wherein the two discuss the times at which Foster dropped off A.S., 

Foster’s tardiness, or Severns’s intentions to make up lost time with A.S. (E.g., 

Plaintiff’s Ex. 39, Defendant’s Ex. D). 

{¶36} Finally, evidence in the record supports the trial court’s finding that 

Foster did, at times, deny Severns’s requests for additional parenting time. Foster 

testified that she never wanted to withhold A.S. from Severns and that she permitted 

Severns to visit with A.S. even when she was not required to do so by court order. 

(Apr. 17, 2018 Tr. at 106-107). Furthermore, some of the text messages between 

Severns and Foster reflect that Foster would ask Severns to watch A.S. on days that 
Case No. 9-18-21 

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were not designated as his parenting days. (E.g., Plaintiff’s Ex. 9). However, the 

record also reflects that Foster would occasionally reject Severns’s requests for 

more parenting time. (See, e.g., Plaintiff’s Exs. 11, 12, 30). In some of these 

exchanges, Foster denied Severns’s claims for additional time by saying that she 

was “[s]ticking to court orders.” (Plaintiff’s Ex. 12). 

{¶37} Concerning R.C. 3109.04(F)(1)(g)—whether either of the parents has 

failed to make child support payments as required by a child support order—the trial 

court found that “[t]here is no child support exchanged at this time.” (Doc. No. 93). 

The record supports the trial court’s findings. Although Foster had previously 

moved the trial court to enter an order directing Severns to pay child support, the 

trial court had not granted her motion. (See Doc. Nos. 20, 60). Thus, R.C. 

3109.04(F)(1)(g) is inapplicable to the facts of this case. 

{¶38} With regards to R.C. 3109.04(F)(1)(h)—whether either parent has 

been convicted of or pleaded guilty to domestic violence or another criminal offense 

involving any act that resulted in the child being an abused or neglected child and 

whether there is reason to believe that either parent has acted in a manner resulting 

in a child being an abused child or neglected child—the trial court found that 

“[t]here has been no criminal convictions that resulted in a child being an abused or 

neglected child, nor has there been any criminal [sic] toward the child.” (Doc. No. 

93). The record supports the trial court’s findings in this respect. First, there is no 
Case No. 9-18-21 

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evidence in the record suggesting that Severns or Foster, or any member of 

Severns’s or Foster’s household, had previously been convicted of or pleaded guilty 

to any criminal offense that resulted in a child being an abused or neglected child, 

previously been determined to be the perpetrator of an act resulting in the abuse or 

neglect of a child, been convicted of domestic violence or a sexually oriented 

offense, or committed a crime against A.S. Although the record establishes that 

Severns had been thrice convicted of operating a vehicle under the influence, the 

last such conviction occurred in 2012, well before A.S.’s birth. (See Apr. 16, 2018 

Tr. at 23-29, 141-142, 209, 260). Furthermore, there is no evidence that either 

Severns or Foster have committed any other crimes during A.S.’s lifetime. Both 

Severns and Foster admitted to prior drug use. (See Apr. 16, 2018 Tr. at 141-142, 

209-211); (See Apr. 17, 2018 Tr. at 225). However, while Foster accused Severns 

of using marijuana and cocaine during A.S.’s lifetime, there is no other evidence in 

the record substantiating any of Foster’s claims. (See Apr. 17, 2018 Tr. at 117-118). 

In addition, there is no evidence that Foster used drugs during A.S.’s lifetime, and 

she denied abusing drugs or alcohol. (Id. at 167). Finally, there is little, if any, 

evidence that Severns and Foster were violent or abusive with A.S. or each other. 

Chief Brian Zerman (“Chief Zerman”) of the Village of Mount Gilead Police 

Department testified that he responded to a report from Foster accusing Severns of 

harassing her during an exchange and grabbing her arm in front of A.S. (Apr. 17, 
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2018 Tr. at 25-26). However, Chief Zerman testified that he could not recall 

whether Foster said she had suffered bruising, that no charges were filed in relation 

to the alleged incident, and that he had no knowledge of any further complaints 

lodged by Foster against Severns. (Id. at 29-31). Thus, the record supports the trial 

court’s R.C. 3109.04(F)(1)(h) findings. 

{¶39} Finally, regarding R.C. 3109.04(F)(1)(j)—whether either parent has 

established a residence, or is planning to establish a residence, outside of Ohio—the 

trial court found that “[n]either parent has established a residence or is planning to 

establish a residence outside the State of Ohio.” (Doc. No. 93). The record supports 

the trial court’s findings in this respect. The record does not contain any evidence 

suggesting that either Severns or Foster have relocated outside of Ohio or that either 

of them intend to move out of Ohio. In fact, as reflected by Severns’s and Foster’s 

statements that they want A.S. to go to the same Ohio school district and Severns’s 

statement that he does not plan on moving out of that school district, the record 

affirmatively indicates that both Severns and Foster intend to stay in Ohio. (Apr. 

16, 2018 Tr. at 110, 207, 317). Therefore, the record supports the trial court’s R.C. 

3109.04(F)(1)(j) findings. 

{¶40} Contrary to Foster’s argument, the fact that the trial court may have 

relied on Severns’s “self-testimony” in reaching some of its R.C. 3109.04(F)(1)(a)-

(j) findings does not render these findings against the weight of the evidence. The 
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trier of fact is in a better position to observe the demeanor of the witnesses, examine 

the evidence, and weigh the credibility of the testimony and evidence. Seasons Coal 

Co., Inc. v. Cleveland, 10 Ohio St.3d 77, 80 (1984). A witness’s self-interest in the 

outcome of the proceedings is but one factor for the trier of fact to consider in 

assessing the credibility of the witness. See In re Adoption of Stamps, 1st Dist. 

Hamilton No. C-840190, 1984 WL 7069, *4 (Nov. 21, 1984), quoting In re Smith, 

12th Dist. Preble No. CA 287, 1981 WL 5107, *3 (Apr. 22, 1981). See also R.C. 

2923.03(D) (setting forth a jury instruction in criminal trials advising the jury that 

“[t]he testimony of an accomplice does not become inadmissible because of his * * 

* self-interest, but the admitted or claimed complicity * * * may affect his credibility 

* * * and require that it be weighed with great caution”). In this case, to the extent 

that the trial court relied on Severns’s testimony in rendering its findings, it did so 

with the knowledge that Severns had an interest in the outcome of the custody 

hearing and that, as a result, he possessed a motivation to portray himself in the best 

possible light. The trial court was in the best position to evaluate Severns’s 

credibility in light of his self-interest, and we find nothing in the record suggesting 

that the trial court erred by crediting Severns’s testimony. Therefore, Foster’s 

argument is without merit. 
Case No. 9-18-21 

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{¶41} Thus, in light of the foregoing, we conclude that the trial court’s bestinterest findings under R.C. 3109.04(F)(1)(a)-(j) are supported by competent, 

credible evidence. 

{¶42} In addition to attacking the trial court’s findings under R.C. 

3109.04(F)(1)(a)-(j), Foster also argues that the trial court erred by finding that she 

and Severns cannot communicate effectively and make joint decisions with respect 

to A.S. Here, Foster seems to confuse some of the trial court’s findings in its May 

30, 2018 judgment. The trial court did, in fact, find that Severns and Foster “do not 

have the ability to cooperate and make joint decisions with respect to [A.S.]” (Doc. 

No. 93). However, the trial court made this finding under R.C. 3109.04(F)(2)(a) in 

support of its conclusion that a shared-parenting arrangement is not in A.S.’s best 

interest—a conclusion that Foster does not contest on appeal. While R.C. 

3109.04(F)(1) enables a trial court to consider “all relevant factors” in determining 

a child’s best interest, it is unclear whether the trial court considered its findings 

under R.C. 3109.04(F)(2)(a) as an additional factor relevant to determining A.S.’s 

best interest for purposes of designating a residential parent. Nonetheless, to the 

extent that the trial court did consider Foster and Severns’s inability to communicate 

and cooperate as relevant to A.S.’s best interest, the trial court’s findings in this 

respect are supported by the record. 
Case No. 9-18-21 

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{¶43} The record is replete with examples of Severns and Foster’s inability 

to effectively communicate with one another and make joint decisions regarding 

A.S. First, as documented by a number of their exhibits, Severns and Foster are 

often incapable of communicating in a civil fashion. Plaintiff’s Exhibit 20 is 

illustrative. In Plaintiff’s Exhibit 20, Severns asks Foster the same question on 

October 29 and 30, 2016: “How is [A.S.] today?” (Plaintiff’s Ex. 20). Foster does 

not respond to Severns until October 31, 2016, after he texted her yet again asking 

about A.S. (Id.). At that point, the conversation deteriorates almost immediately 

with Foster telling Severns that he “shouldn’t have been doing drugs” and Severns 

asking in response whether Foster was on drugs. (Id.). Severns then accuses Foster 

of being a liar and calls her “spiteful” and “mean.” (Id.). Many of Severns and 

Foster’s text message exchanges document a pattern of tense, unproductive 

communication. (E.g., Plaintiff’s Exs. 6, 17, 38, 39); (E.g., Defendant’s Exs. F, O, 

S). In addition, the GAL’s report supports the trial court’s findings about how 

poorly Severns and Foster communicate. As to Severns, the GAL stated that 

Severns “does allow himself to become very upset” with Foster, and he “does appear 

to belittle [Foster] and treat her in a very negative way.” (Doc. No. 84). The GAL 

stressed that Severns “must * * * learn to act in a manner that is less combative and 

belittling toward others.” (Id.). Regarding Foster, the GAL noted that she 
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“communicates in a way in which she appears pedantic, inflexible, bossy, and at 

times just plain stubborn.” (Id.). 

{¶44} Furthermore, the record supports that Severns and Foster cannot make 

joint decisions for A.S. The GAL noted that “neither parent can agree on the 

simplest of things.” (Id.). The record also evidences that Severns and Foster 

frequently disagreed over what to feed A.S., whether A.S. should go to daycare or 

stay with family members, who to hire as A.S.’s babysitter, and when and where 

A.S. would go for checkups with a pediatrician and other medical treatment. (See 

Apr. 16, 2018 Tr. at 123-124, 158, 176, 189-190, 199, 204-205, 235, 285, 289-290, 

296-297); (See Apr. 17, 2018 Tr. at 161, 188-189, 207-208). Moreover, many of 

these disagreements are borne out in the text messages between Severns and Foster. 

Therefore, the record thoroughly supports the trial court’s findings concerning 

Severns and Foster’s inability to communicate and make joint decisions in A.S.’s 

best interest. 

{¶45} Having concluded that the trial court’s findings are supported by 

competent, credible evidence, we next address Foster’s argument that the trial court 

incorrectly weighed the best-interest factors in favor of designating Severns as 

A.S.’s residential parent and legal custodian. Specifically, Foster argues that the 

trial court “gave prevailing weight of the measures of the statute essentially to a 
Case No. 9-18-21 

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single factor,” which Foster does not identify, instead of weighing the factors “as an 

accumulative whole.” (Appellant’s Brief at 7). 

{¶46} Foster’s argument is without merit. First, there is no indication in the 

trial court’s May 30, 2018 judgment that it actually viewed any one of the R.C. 

3109.04(F)(1) factors as more important than any of the others or that its decision 

to designate Severns as A.S.’s residential parent was based on just one of its R.C. 

3109.04(F)(1)(a)-(j) findings. To the contrary, the trial court’s May 30, 2018 

judgment reflects that the trial court considered each of the R.C. 3109.04(F)(1) bestinterest factors before designating Severns as A.S.’s residential parent. More 

importantly, even if the trial court clearly gave more weight to one of the R.C. 

3109.04(F)(1) best-interest factors than it did to any of the others, the trial court 

would not have necessarily abused its discretion. As discussed above, “[t]he trial 

court ‘has discretion in determining which factors are relevant,’ and ‘each factor 

may not necessarily carry the same weight or have the same relevance, depending 

upon the facts before the trial court.’” Krill, 2014-Ohio-2577, at ¶ 29, quoting 

Brammer, 2013-Ohio-2843, at ¶ 41, citing Hammond, 2008-Ohio-2310, at ¶ 51. 

Thus, so long as the trial court considered each of the factors as required by R.C. 

3109.04(F)(1), the trial court had the discretion to give prevailing weight to one 

factor if it deemed that doing so was required by the facts of the case. 
Case No. 9-18-21 

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{¶47} Finally, the trial court’s decision to disregard the GAL’s sharedparenting recommendation does not demand a conclusion that the trial court abused 

its discretion by designating Severns as A.S.’s sole residential parent. “It is well 

settled that a trial court is not bound by the GAL’s recommendations.” Brown v. 

Heitman, 3d Dist. Logan No. 8-16-21, 2017-Ohio-4032, ¶ 30. “‘A trial court 

determines the guardian ad litem’s credibility and the weight to be given to any 

report.’” Id., quoting Galloway v. Khan, 10th Dist. Franklin No. 06AP-140, 2006-

Ohio-6637, ¶ 70, citing Baker v. Baker, 6th Dist. Lucas No. L-03-1018, 2004-Ohio469, ¶ 30. Here, the trial court found that the GAL “supports the shared parenting 

despite the [GAL’s] acknowledgement that neither parent can agree on the ‘smallest 

of things’ and assigns fault equally between the parties.” (Doc. No. 93). The trial 

court also noted that the “hallmark of a shared parenting plan is the ability of the 

parties to communicate effectively without rancor regarding their child” and that 

Severns and Foster “are unable to work together without conflict.” (Id.). Thus, the 

trial court observed that the GAL’s recommendation was inconsistent with the 

purposes of shared parenting and that, in some ways, the recommendation was 

incompatible with aspects of the GAL’s report. 

{¶48} In conclusion, the trial court’s R.C. 3109.04(F)(1) best-interest 

findings are supported by a substantial amount of competent, credible evidence in 

the record. Furthermore, in light of these findings, the trial court’s decision to 
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designate Severns as A.S.’s residential parent and legal custodian was not arbitrary, 

unreasonable, or unconscionable. Thus, the trial court did not abuse its discretion 

by naming Severns as A.S.’s residential parent. 

{¶49} Foster’s assignments of error are overruled. 

{¶50} Having found no error prejudicial to the appellant herein in the 

particulars assigned and argued, we affirm the judgment of the trial court. 

 Judgment Affirmed 

ZIMMERMAN, P.J. and SHAW, J., concur. 

/jlr