If you are dealing with a child custody matter , knowing how Texas custody laws work can be important. Our family law firm represents parents in Colleyville, Southlake, Keller, Grapevine, and surrounding Tarrant County communities in child custody and related family law matters .
Colleyville & Southlake Child Custody Attorney
Child custody and visitation decisions can become difficult and contentious . Parents may be able to negotiate a child custody agreement that can be incorporated into a court order .
If parents are unable to agree , the court may determine the arrangement . Texas courts consider the child's best interests when making custody decisions.
Understanding Texas Child Custody Laws
Texas law encourages parents to work out a custody and visitation arrangement . If the parents cannot reach an agreement , a judge may establish the appropriate arrangement based on the best interests of the child.
What Texas Courts Consider in Custody Decisions
- The child's primary caretaker
- The age of the child
- The child's preference if old enough to have a valid opinion
- The child's relationship with both parents
- The age, health, and financial resources of the parents
- The physical and emotional needs of the child
- Whether there has been neglect, family violence, or substance abuse
- Each parent's parenting abilities
- The stability of a proposed home
- Access to extended family and other support networks
What Is Conservatorship in Texas?
Texas uses the term “conservatorship” when referring to child custody . Conservatorship involves parental rights and duties, including decisions concerning medical care, education, religious matters, and other important decisions.
Texas recognizes joint managing conservatorship and sole managing conservatorship . Joint conservatorship does not necessarily mean equal parenting time .
Understanding Standard Possession Orders
A possession arrangement is generally needed in child custody cases . The Texas standard possession framework can provide a basic Child Custody Lawyer Colleyville TX schedule covering various periods of possession.
A Standard Possession Order may be adapted to the family's circumstances to create a schedule that better fits the needs of the case.
Custody & Visitation Legal Help
Our family law practice, parents may obtain legal representation with negotiating and drafting custody and visitation schedules . Where parents can reach common ground, the parenting plan can be prepared for approval.
If the parties cannot resolve the matter through agreement , experienced legal representation can help advocate for your parental rights .
Child Custody Lawyer Serving Southlake, TX
Parents dealing with custody matters in Southlake may face custody, visitation, and parenting-time questions . Learning how conservatorship works can help parents understand their options .
Child Custody Representation in Colleyville
For parents in Colleyville , having an experienced family law attorney can provide assistance with custody negotiations . No two custody disputes are exactly alike, which is why the custody approach should take into account the individual circumstances involved.
Experienced Custody Representation
Custody and visitation cases can have a significant impact on parents and children . A knowledgeable family law attorney can help you understand how the courts operate and work toward an appropriate resolution.
Kate Smith Law brings experience handling custody matters to cases involving child custody, visitation, and parenting arrangements throughout Colleyville, Southlake, Keller, Grapevine, and Tarrant County .
Schedule a Child Custody Consultation
If you need assistance with custody or visitation , the Law Offices of Kate Smith can help you understand your legal options .
Whether your custody dispute requires court representation, speak with a child custody attorney to learn about your options .