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 Texas child custody cases.
Colleyville & Southlake Child Custody Attorney
Child custody and visitation decisions can become challenging for parents and children. Parents may be able to negotiate a custody and visitation schedule that can be reviewed and approved by the court.
When an agreement cannot Child Custody Attorney Colleyville TX be reached , a judge may determine the appropriate custody arrangement. Texas family courts consider the best interests of the child when making custody decisions.
How Texas Courts Decide Child Custody
Texas law encourages 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.
Child Custody Factors in Texas
- The child's primary caretaker
- The child's age
- 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
Understanding Texas Conservatorship
Texas uses the term “conservatorship” when referring to child custody . This legal arrangement involves parental rights and duties, including decisions concerning health care, education, religious upbringing, and other matters affecting the child .
Conservatorship arrangements can include joint or sole managing conservatorship. Being joint managing conservators does not automatically create a 50/50 schedule .
Understanding Standard Possession Orders
A possession arrangement is generally needed in Texas custody matters. A standard possession schedule can provide a general parenting-time structure covering days, weekends, holidays, birthdays, and summer vacations .
Parents may be able to customize the standard arrangement to create a more appropriate parenting schedule .
Custody & Visitation Legal Help
At the Law Offices of Kate Smith , parents can receive assistance with resolving child custody and visitation issues. Where parents can reach common ground, the agreement can be documented and submitted to the court .
If the parties cannot resolve the matter through agreement , knowledgeable custody counsel can help address your custody concerns before the court.
Child Custody Lawyer Serving Southlake, TX
Parents in Southlake may face custody, visitation, and parenting-time questions . Knowing what courts consider can help parents understand their options .
Child Custody Attorney Serving Colleyville, TX
Parents seeking child custody guidance 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 legal representation should take into account the individual circumstances involved.
Choosing a Texas Child Custody Lawyer
Custody and visitation cases can have lasting consequences for a family . A knowledgeable family law attorney can help explain your legal options and advocate for your parental rights .
The Law Offices of Kate Smith brings knowledge of Texas family law to cases involving complex family law disputes throughout Colleyville, Southlake, Keller, Grapevine, and Tarrant County .
Get Help With Child Custody in Colleyville or Southlake
If you are dealing with a parenting-time or conservatorship issue, our family law team can provide guidance regarding your circumstances .
Whether you are negotiating a custody agreement , speak with a child custody attorney to discuss your circumstances .