If you are dealing with a child custody matter , knowing how Texas custody laws work can be important. Kate Smith Law represents parents in Colleyville, Southlake, Keller, Grapevine, and surrounding Tarrant County communities in custody and visitation disputes .
Colleyville & Southlake Child Custody Attorney
Parenting arrangements can become difficult and contentious . When possible, parents may work together to establish a parenting and possession arrangement that can be incorporated into a court order .
When negotiations do not resolve the dispute, 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 circumstances of the case .
What Texas Courts Consider in Custody Decisions
- 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
- The parenting abilities of each parent
- The stability of a proposed home
- Access to extended family and other support networks
Understanding Texas Conservatorship
In Texas, child custody is commonly referred to as conservatorship . 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. Joint conservatorship does not necessarily mean equal parenting time .
Texas Parenting Time and Possession Schedules
A separate visitation or possession schedule is generally needed in Texas custody matters. The Texas standard possession framework can provide a basic schedule covering days, weekends, holidays, birthdays, and summer vacations .
Parents may be able to customize the standard arrangement to create a schedule that better fits the needs of the case.
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 parenting plan can be prepared for approval.
When negotiations do not produce a workable solution, courtroom advocacy can help present your position .
Southlake Child Custody Attorney
Southlake families may face difficult decisions concerning their children. Understanding Texas custody law can help parents prepare for the legal process .
Child Custody Representation in Colleyville
For parents in Colleyville , obtaining qualified legal representation can provide assistance with parenting schedules . No two custody disputes are exactly alike, which is why the custody approach should take into account the circumstances Child Custody Lawyer Colleyville TX of the family and the best interests of the children .
Experienced Custody Representation
Parenting disputes can have a significant impact on parents and children . A knowledgeable family law attorney can help explain your legal options and advocate for your parental rights .
Kate Smith Law brings knowledge of Texas family law 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 help you understand your legal options .
Whether you need help creating a visitation schedule , contact the Law Offices of Kate Smith to learn about your options .