If you are dealing with a child custody matter , understanding your rights and options click here can be important. Kate Smith Law represents parents in Colleyville and Southlake and throughout Tarrant County in child custody and related family law matters .
Texas Child Custody Legal Representation
Custody disputes can become stressful and complicated . When possible, parents may work together to establish a child custody agreement that can be incorporated into a court order .
When an agreement cannot be reached , a judge may determine the appropriate custody arrangement. 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 may decide the custody issues based on relevant factors .
Child Custody Factors in Texas
- Who has acted as the child's primary caretaker
- The child's age
- The child's preference if old enough to have a valid opinion
- The child's relationship with each parent
- The age, health, and financial resources of the parents
- The child's physical and emotional needs
- Whether there has been neglect, family violence, or substance abuse
- Each parent's parenting abilities
- The stability of a proposed home
- Available extended family or support systems
Understanding Texas Conservatorship
Texas uses the term “conservatorship” when referring to child custody . This legal arrangement involves the rights and responsibilities of a parent , including decisions concerning health care, education, religious upbringing, and other matters affecting the child .
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 possession arrangement 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 more appropriate parenting schedule .
Custody & Visitation Legal Help
Our family law practice, parents may obtain legal representation with negotiating and drafting custody and visitation schedules . Where parents can reach common ground, the parenting plan can be prepared for approval.
When court intervention is necessary , knowledgeable custody counsel can help present your position .
Southlake Child Custody Attorney
Parents in Southlake may face disputes involving conservatorship and possession . Understanding Texas custody law can help parents make informed decisions about their case.
Colleyville Child Custody Lawyer
Parents seeking child custody guidance in Colleyville, obtaining qualified legal representation can provide assistance with parenting schedules . Every custody case is different , which is why the custody approach should take into account the circumstances of the family and the best interests of the children .
Choosing a Texas Child Custody Lawyer
Custody and visitation cases can have lasting consequences for a family . A knowledgeable family law attorney can help prepare you for negotiations or court proceedings and advocate for your parental rights .
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 are dealing with a parenting-time or conservatorship issue, the Law Offices of Kate Smith can help you understand your legal options .
Whether your custody dispute requires court representation, schedule a consultation to discuss your circumstances .