When you're facing a child custody dispute , having a clear understanding of your legal options can be important. Our family law firm represents parents in Colleyville and Southlake and throughout Tarrant County in child custody and related family law matters .
Colleyville & Southlake Child Custody Attorney
Child custody and visitation decisions 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 an agreement cannot be reached here , a judge may determine the appropriate custody arrangement. Texas courts consider the best interests of the child when making custody decisions.
How Texas Courts Decide Child Custody
Texas courts generally prefer parents to work out a custody and visitation arrangement . When this is not possible , the court may decide the custody issues based on relevant factors .
Factors Considered in Texas Child Custody Cases
- 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
- Each parent's parenting abilities
- The stability of each proposed living environment
- 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 the rights and responsibilities of a parent , including decisions concerning medical care, education, religious matters, and other important decisions.
Texas recognizes joint managing conservatorship and sole managing conservatorship . Joint managing conservatorship does not necessarily provide each parent with exactly equal time.
Understanding Standard Possession Orders
A separate visitation or possession schedule is generally needed in Texas custody matters. A Standard Possession Order can provide a general parenting-time structure covering regular possession, holidays, birthdays, and summer periods .
A Standard Possession Order may be adapted to the family's circumstances to create a customized possession arrangement .
Child Custody and Visitation Representation
Kate Smith Law , parents can receive assistance with negotiating and drafting custody and visitation schedules . When an agreement is possible , 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 .
Southlake Child Custody Attorney
Parents dealing with custody matters in Southlake may face disputes involving conservatorship and possession . Learning how conservatorship works can help parents prepare for the legal process .
Child Custody Representation in Colleyville
Parents seeking child custody guidance in Colleyville, working with knowledgeable custody counsel can provide assistance with parenting schedules . 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 a significant impact on parents and children . An experienced child custody attorney can help explain your legal options and address your custody concerns .
The Law Offices of Kate Smith brings knowledge of Texas family law to cases involving complex family law disputes 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 , Kate Smith Law can assist with your child custody matter.
Whether you are negotiating a custody agreement , contact the Law Offices of Kate Smith to learn about your options .