The Journal · October 22, 2026
Child Custody Investigations in Mahoning County
How parents and attorneys in the Valley use lawful investigations to document concerns about a child's safety and wellbeing.
A note from the local desk
“The easiest appointment is usually the one where the practical details are ready before the notary arrives.”
Custody disputes are among the most emotional cases in any court. When a parent believes a child is unsafe or neglected during the other parent’s time, the court needs credible facts, not just accusations. Ohio Security & Investigations helps parents and their attorneys in Mahoning, Trumbull and Columbiana counties document concerns lawfully.
Concerns We Investigate
- Drinking or drug use while caring for children
- Driving impaired with children in the car
- Leaving young children unsupervised
- Exposure to people with violent or criminal histories
- Failure to follow custody orders or parenting schedules
- Living arrangements that differ from what was told to the court
The Best Interests Standard
Ohio courts decide custody based on the child’s best interests, considering factors such as the child’s relationships, adjustment, health and each parent’s willingness to support the child’s relationship with the other parent. Evidence should connect to these factors rather than general criticism of the other parent.
Our Methods
We conduct discreet surveillance during parenting time, documenting supervision, conduct and transportation in public places. We research public court records for criminal histories of people in the household and verify residence information. Everything is gathered lawfully.
Protecting Children
Children should never be asked to report on a parent or carry messages. Investigators work without involving the children and avoid situations that could upset them.
Working With the Court Process
Your attorney decides how evidence is used, whether in negotiation, mediation, a guardian ad litem’s review or a hearing. Our investigators can testify about their observations.
In an Emergency
If a child is in immediate danger, call 911 or contact Mahoning County Children Services right away.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will my child know?
We work discreetly so children are not involved.
Can you check who lives in the other home?
Public records and observation can often help.
How long do custody investigations take?
It depends on the concerns and parenting schedule.
Discretion and Professional Standards
Every case we handle is treated as confidential. Our investigators use unmarked vehicles, professional equipment and lawful methods, and they will break off rather than risk exposing a case. Reports are written in plain language, stick to facts that were observed and documented and avoid speculation. This approach protects our clients, respects the rights of everyone involved and makes the results more credible if they are reviewed by an attorney, a magistrate or a judge anywhere in the Mahoning Valley.
Why Clients Choose Ohio Security & Investigations
Ohio Security & Investigations LLC is based in Youngstown and serves Mahoning County, Trumbull County, Columbiana County and communities throughout the Mahoning Valley, including Boardman, Canfield, Austintown, Poland, Struthers, Warren, Niles and Hubbard. As a founding member of the Ohio Association of Investigative & Security Professionals, our team is committed to professional standards, lawful methods and clear communication. We provide fingerprinting, BCI and FBI background checks, process serving and private investigations for individuals, families, attorneys and businesses.
Contact Ohio Security & Investigations
Ohio Security & Investigations LLC
7087 West Blvd #8
Youngstown, Ohio 44512
Phone: (888) 341-6960
Email: info@ohioinvestigators.com
Website: ohioinvestigators.com
Call or email today to schedule fingerprinting, request process service or arrange a confidential consultation.