When you're facing a child custody dispute , having a clear understanding of your legal options can be important. The Law Offices of Kate Smith represents parents in the surrounding Tarrant County area in custody and visitation disputes .
Child Custody Lawyer in Colleyville & Southlake, TX
Parenting arrangements can become challenging for parents and children. In some cases, parents can reach an agreement on a custody and visitation schedule that can be reviewed and approved by the court.
If parents are unable to agree , a judge may determine the appropriate custody arrangement. Texas courts consider the child's best interests when making custody decisions.
How Texas Courts Decide Child Custody
Texas law encourages parents to develop a parenting arrangement together. When Texas Child Custody Lawyer negotiations fail, 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 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 . Conservatorship 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 basic schedule covering days, weekends, holidays, birthdays, and summer vacations .
The standard schedule can sometimes be negotiated or modified to create a schedule that better fits the needs of the case.
Child Custody and Visitation Representation
Our family law practice, parents may obtain legal representation with resolving child custody and visitation issues. Where parents can reach common ground, the proposed arrangement can be prepared for court approval .
When negotiations do not produce a workable solution, knowledgeable custody counsel can help address your custody concerns before the court.
Child Custody Legal Help in Southlake
Parents in Southlake may face difficult decisions concerning their children. Understanding Texas custody law can help parents understand their options .
Child Custody Attorney Serving Colleyville, TX
Families facing custody disputes in Colleyville , obtaining qualified legal representation can provide assistance with court proceedings. Each family has unique circumstances , which is why the custody approach should take into account the child's needs and the facts of the case .
Experienced Custody Representation
Child custody matters can have a significant impact on parents and children . An experienced child custody attorney can help you understand how the courts operate and advocate for your parental rights .
The Law Offices of Kate Smith brings experience handling custody matters to cases involving conservatorship and possession throughout Southlake, Colleyville, and surrounding Tarrant County communities.
Schedule a Child Custody Consultation
If you are dealing with a parenting-time or conservatorship issue, Kate Smith Law can provide guidance regarding your circumstances .
Whether you need help creating a visitation schedule , speak with a child custody attorney to discuss your circumstances .