When you're facing a child custody dispute , knowing how Texas custody laws work can be important. The Law Offices of Kate Smith represents parents in Colleyville and Southlake and throughout Tarrant County in custody and visitation disputes .
Texas Child Custody Legal Representation
Child custody and visitation decisions can become stressful and complicated . In some cases, parents can reach an agreement on a parenting and possession arrangement that can be reviewed and approved by the court.
When negotiations do not resolve the dispute, a judge may determine the appropriate custody arrangement. Texas family courts consider the child's best interests when making custody decisions.
How Is Child Custody Determined in Texas?
Courts may favor parents to work out a custody and visitation arrangement . When this is not possible , the court may decide the custody issues based on the best interests of the child.
What Texas Courts Consider in Custody Decisions
- Who has acted as the child's primary caretaker
- The child's age
- The child's preference when legally relevant
- The child's relationship with each parent
- The age, health, and financial resources of the parents
- The physical and emotional needs of the child
- Any history of child neglect, domestic violence, or substance abuse
- The parenting abilities of each parent
- The stability of a proposed home
- Available extended family or support systems
Texas Child Custody and Conservatorship
In Texas, child custody is commonly referred to as conservatorship . Conservatorship involves the rights and responsibilities of a parent , including decisions concerning health care, education, religious upbringing, and other matters affecting the child .
Conservatorship arrangements can include joint or sole managing conservatorship. Joint conservatorship does not necessarily mean equal parenting time .
Standard Possession Orders in Texas
A possession arrangement is generally needed in child custody cases . The Texas standard possession framework can provide a basic schedule covering various periods of possession.
The standard schedule can sometimes be negotiated or modified to create a customized possession arrangement .
Child Custody and Parenting Arrangements
At the Law Offices of Kate Smith , parents may obtain legal representation with developing parenting and possession arrangements Child Custody Lawyer Southlake TX . Where parents can reach common ground, the proposed arrangement can be prepared for court approval .
If the parties cannot resolve the matter through agreement , experienced legal representation can help address your custody concerns before the court.
Southlake Child Custody Attorney
Parents in Southlake may face disputes involving conservatorship and possession . Knowing what courts consider can help parents make informed decisions about their case.
Child Custody Representation in Colleyville
Parents seeking child custody guidance in Colleyville, obtaining qualified legal representation can provide assistance with custody negotiations . Every custody case is different , which is why the appropriate legal strategy should take into account the child's needs and the facts of the case .
Experienced Custody Representation
Parenting disputes can have important implications for your parental rights. An experienced child custody attorney can help explain your legal options and advocate for your parental rights .
Kate Smith Law brings experience handling custody matters to cases involving complex family law disputes throughout Colleyville, Southlake, Keller, Grapevine, and Tarrant County .
Schedule a Child Custody Consultation
If you are dealing with a parenting-time or conservatorship issue, the Law Offices of Kate Smith can assist with your child custody matter.
Whether you need help creating a visitation schedule , speak with a child custody attorney to learn about your options .