If you are dealing with a child custody matter , having a clear understanding of your legal options can be important. Kate Smith Law represents parents in Colleyville and Southlake and throughout Tarrant County in Texas child Child Custody Attorney Southlake TX custody cases.
Texas Child Custody Legal Representation
Child custody and visitation decisions can become challenging for parents and children. In some cases, parents can reach an agreement on a child custody agreement that can be reviewed and approved by the court.
When negotiations do not resolve the dispute, the matter may be decided by the court . Texas 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 negotiations fail, a judge may establish the appropriate arrangement based on relevant factors .
What Texas Courts Consider in Custody Decisions
- Who has acted as the child's primary caretaker
- The age of the child
- The child's preference when legally relevant
- The child's relationship with both parents
- The parents' age, health, and financial circumstances
- The child's physical and emotional needs
- Any history of child neglect, domestic violence, or substance abuse
- The parenting abilities of each parent
- The stability of each proposed living environment
- Access to extended family and other support networks
What Is Conservatorship in Texas?
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 .
Texas recognizes joint managing conservatorship and sole managing conservatorship . Being joint managing conservators does not automatically create a 50/50 schedule .
Standard Possession Orders in Texas
A parenting-time schedule is generally needed in Texas custody matters. The Texas standard possession framework can provide a starting framework covering days, weekends, holidays, birthdays, and summer vacations .
A Standard Possession Order may be adapted to the family's circumstances to create a more appropriate parenting schedule .
Child Custody and Visitation Representation
At the Law Offices of Kate Smith , parents can receive assistance 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 , knowledgeable custody counsel can help advocate for your parental rights .
Child Custody Lawyer Serving Southlake, TX
Parents dealing with custody matters in Southlake may face difficult decisions concerning their children. Knowing what courts consider can help parents prepare for the legal process .
Colleyville Child Custody Lawyer
Parents seeking child custody guidance in Colleyville, obtaining qualified legal representation can provide assistance with custody negotiations . Each family has unique circumstances , which is why the appropriate legal strategy should take into account the circumstances of the family and the best interests of the children .
Why Choose an Experienced Child Custody Attorney?
Parenting disputes can have lasting consequences for a family . An experienced child custody attorney can help prepare you for negotiations or court proceedings and advocate for your parental rights .
Kate Smith Law brings knowledge of Texas family law to cases involving conservatorship and possession throughout Southlake, Colleyville, and surrounding Tarrant County communities.
Get Help With Child Custody in Colleyville or Southlake
If you need assistance with custody or visitation , our family law team can help you understand your legal options .
Whether you are negotiating a custody agreement , speak with a child custody attorney to learn about your options .