When you're facing a child custody dispute , understanding your rights and 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 .
Child Custody Lawyer in Colleyville & Southlake, TX
Child custody and visitation decisions can become stressful and complicated . In some cases, parents can reach an agreement on a child custody agreement that can be reviewed and approved by the court.
When an agreement cannot be reached , the matter may be decided by the court . Texas courts consider the best interests of the child when making custody decisions.
Understanding Texas Child Custody Laws
Courts may favor parents to develop a parenting arrangement together. When negotiations fail, the court determines the arrangement based on the best interests of the child.
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 each parent
- The age, health, and financial resources of the parents
- The physical and emotional needs of the child
- Any history of child neglect, domestic violence, or substance abuse
- Each parent's parenting abilities
- The stability of a proposed home
- Access to extended family and other support networks
What Is Conservatorship in Texas?
Texas family law uses “conservatorship” to describe parental custody rights and responsibilities. This legal arrangement involves the rights and responsibilities of a parent , including decisions concerning medical care, education, religious matters, and other important decisions.
Conservatorship arrangements can include joint or sole managing conservatorship. Joint conservatorship does not necessarily mean equal parenting time .
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 various periods of possession.
Parents may be able to customize the standard arrangement to create a more appropriate parenting schedule .
Custody & Visitation Legal Help
At the Law Offices of Kate Smith , parents can receive assistance with developing parenting and possession arrangements . Where parents can reach common ground, the agreement can be documented and submitted to the court .
When negotiations do not produce a workable solution, experienced legal representation can help present your position .
Child Custody Legal Help in Southlake
Southlake families may face custody, visitation, and parenting-time questions . Knowing what courts consider can help parents make informed decisions about their case.
Colleyville Child Custody Lawyer
For parents in Colleyville , having an experienced family law attorney can provide assistance with custody negotiations . Each family has unique circumstances website , which is why the custody approach should take into account the circumstances of the family and the best interests of the children .
Why Choose an Experienced Child Custody Attorney?
Child custody matters can have important implications for your parental rights. An experienced child custody attorney can help you understand how the courts operate and address your custody concerns .
The Law Offices of Kate Smith brings family law experience to cases involving complex family law disputes throughout Colleyville, Southlake, Keller, Grapevine, and Tarrant County .
Speak With a Texas Child Custody Attorney
If you need assistance with custody or visitation , the Law Offices of Kate Smith can help you understand your legal options .
Whether you are negotiating a custody agreement , speak with a child custody attorney to get legal guidance regarding your custody matter.