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Protecting Your Children’s Best Interests
We understand that child custody cases are among the most emotional and challenging aspects of family law. Whether you’re navigating a divorce with children or seeking a modification to an existing custody arrangement, our experienced attorneys are here to guide you. We work closely with our clients to ensure that the best interests of the child are prioritized and that your rights as a parent are protected.
Why Choose Us for Child Custody Cases?
Experienced Legal Team
With over 30 years of experience, we specialize in child custody cases and are committed to securing the best possible outcomes for your family.
Compassionate Support
We understand the emotional toll that custody battles can have on families. Our team is dedicated to providing supportive and empathetic legal counsel during this challenging time.
Focus on Child’s Best Interests
Texas courts always prioritize the best interests of the child when making custody decisions. We help ensure that your goals align with what will benefit the child in the long term.
Types of Child Custody in Texas
In Texas, child custody is referred to as “conservatorship” rather than “custody.” There are two main types of conservatorship:
Joint Managing Conservatorship (JMC)
Both parents share decision-making responsibilities for the child. This does not necessarily mean that parents will have equal time with the child, but it does give them joint authority over important decisions such as education, medical care, and religious upbringing.
Sole Managing Conservatorship (SMC)
One parent has the exclusive right to make decisions about the child’s welfare, and the other parent typically has visitation rights.
The Standard Possession Order governs the timesharing of children when parents are joint managing conservators, ensuring that the child has meaningful contact with both parents.
How the Court Determines Child Custody
Texas courts will make decisions based on the child’s best interest, and several factors are considered when determining custody arrangements. These factors may include:
The child’s desires, if the child is old enough to express a preference.
The emotional and physical needs of the child.
The ability of each parent to provide a stable and supportive environment.
The relationship each parent has with the child.
Any history of abuse, neglect, or family violence.
We work with you to present evidence and arguments that support your case and aim to meet the court’s requirements for a favorable decision.
Child Custody Process in Texas
The child custody process typically follows these steps:
Filing the Petition
The process begins when one parent files a petition for conservatorship in court.
Negotiation or Mediation
If both parents cannot agree on custody, mediation may be required. Mediation allows parents to negotiate custody arrangements with the help of a neutral third party.
Trial
If mediation fails, the case will proceed to trial where each parent will present evidence and the court will make a final decision based on the child’s best interests.
Custody Agreement
Once a decision is made, the court will issue a final custody order or visitation schedule.
Common Questions About Child Custody in Texas
Find answers to frequently asked questions about the child cutody process.
What is the difference between joint and sole managing conservatorship?
In a Joint Managing Conservatorship (JMC), both parents share the rights to make decisions about their child’s life, though they may not necessarily have equal time with the child. In a Sole Managing Conservatorship (SMC), one parent has the exclusive right to make major decisions for the child, and the other parent typically has limited visitation or no access to the child.
How does the court decide the child's best interests?
The court will assess various factors to determine what is in the child’s best interests, including the child’s emotional and physical needs, each parent’s ability to provide for the child, and the child’s relationship with both parents.
Can the court change the custody arrangement after it's been decided?
Yes, the court can modify the custody arrangement if there has been a significant change in circumstances, such as a parent’s relocation, a change in the child’s needs, or if the current arrangement is not in the child’s best interest.
How is child support determined in Texas?
Child support is calculated based on the non-custodial parent’s income and the needs of the child, which includes basics such as food, clothing, shelter, and medical care. Texas uses guidelines to calculate child support, but the amount may vary based on special needs or other considerations.
What happens if parents cannot agree on a custody arrangement?
If parents cannot agree on a custody arrangement, the court will intervene and make a decision based on the child’s best interests. The court considers factors like the child’s emotional bond with each parent, the ability of each parent to care for the child, and any history of abuse or neglect.
Why You Need a Skilled Child Custody Lawyer
Child custody cases are complex and emotionally charged. Having an experienced attorney can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case. We are committed to protecting your rights as a parent and ensuring that your child’s well-being is always the priority.