Trial decision regarding custody, access, and child support for a child with Autism Spectrum Disorder born to unmarried parents who never cohabited.
The applicant mother sought sole custody with regular access for the father and child support.
The respondent father sought joint custody and increased parenting time, arguing equal involvement in the child's care.
The court granted sole custody to the mother, finding that while the father maintained regular access and demonstrated love for the child, he had not undertaken the substantial parenting responsibilities required to address the child's special needs.
The court emphasized the poor communication between the parties and the lack of meaningful cooperation in managing the child's therapeutic requirements, which militated against a joint custody order.
The court awarded child support and detailed access provisions.
