When parents decide to divorce or end their relationship, child custody is often at the top of the list for contentious conversations. However, what happens when both parents are determined to not be fit to raise their child? It is at this point that the court has to make tough decisions in the best interests of the child or children involved. Last year, an Ohio girl came home only to find that no one was home. In an attempt to find her mother, the 5-year-old decided to hop into her mother's SUV to drive around and look for her. She crashed the vehicle, which then prompted Children Services to get involved with the situation.

Sometime later, Richland County Children Services placed the girl with her great-grandmother. Since then, both of her parents have begun separate fights to become the custodial parent of the 5-year-old.

Late last month, a Richland County juvenile judge decided that the young girl, who attends Prospect Elementary as a kindergartener, is a dependent. According to state legislation, this means that the girl does not have a parent, guardian or custodian that is able to care for her due to their physical or mental conditions. A child is also considered a dependent if they themselves or the environment they are currently residing warrants intervention by the state to ensure their best interests are met.

Despite this, her parents are still attempting to gain full custody. They do not live together and both are currently able to have visitation with their 5-year-old daughter. An attorney for the mother said that he intends to have his client follow whatever plan that is created by Richland County Children Services. By doing so, the woman may receive custody of her child in the future.

Also brought to light during the Richland County case is a current custody case with Morrow County. Apparently, the girl's mother had previously relinquished custody of her eldest daughter to the state. However, an agent from Morrow County reported that this was only so the girl could receive necessary counseling and treatment. If everything goes as planned, the older daughter will be returned to the woman as scheduled.

Since the 5-year-old was determined to be a dependent, the presiding judge will need to investigate all of the options available for the young girl. He may decide to leave her with her great-grandmother, as long as an agreement can be made with Children Services. He may also decide that it is in her best interests to have her stay in foster care until the situation with her parents is remedied.

Source: Marion Star, "5-year-old driver's placement will be decided this month," Jami Kinton, Jan. 3, 2012