When you're facing a child custody dispute , understanding your rights and options can be important. The Law Offices of Kate Smith represents parents in Colleyville, Southlake, Keller, Grapevine, and surrounding Tarrant County communities in Texas child custody cases.
Child Custody Lawyer in Colleyville & Southlake, TX
Parenting arrangements can become difficult and contentious . In some cases, parents can reach an agreement on a child custody agreement that can be submitted to the court for approval .
When negotiations do not resolve the dispute, the matter may be decided by the court . Texas family courts consider the child's best interests when making custody decisions.
How Is Child Custody Determined in Texas?
Texas law encourages parents to work out a custody and visitation arrangement . When negotiations fail, a judge may establish the appropriate arrangement based on the circumstances of the case .
What Texas Courts Consider in Custody Decisions
- The child's primary caretaker
- The child's age
- The child's preference when legally relevant
- The child's relationship with both parents
- 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
- Access to extended family and other support networks
Understanding Texas Conservatorship
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 . Joint conservatorship does not necessarily mean equal parenting time .
Understanding Standard Possession Orders
A separate visitation or possession schedule is generally needed in child custody cases . A standard possession schedule can provide a starting framework covering various periods of Child Custody Attorney Colleyville TX possession.
A Standard Possession Order may be adapted to the family's circumstances to create a customized possession arrangement .
Custody & Visitation Legal Help
Kate Smith Law , the firm assists parents with negotiating and drafting custody and visitation schedules . Where parents can reach common ground, the agreement can be documented and submitted to the court .
When court intervention is necessary , courtroom advocacy can help address your custody concerns before the court.
Southlake Child Custody Attorney
Parents dealing with custody matters in Southlake may face difficult decisions concerning their children. Knowing what courts consider can help parents understand their options .
Child Custody Attorney Serving Colleyville, TX
Parents seeking child custody guidance in Colleyville, obtaining qualified legal representation can provide assistance with custody negotiations . Every custody case is different , which is why the legal representation should take into account the child's needs and the facts of the case .
Choosing a Texas Child Custody Lawyer
Child custody matters can have lasting consequences for a family . An experienced child custody attorney can help you understand how the courts operate and address your custody concerns .
Kate Smith Law brings experience handling custody matters to cases involving child custody, visitation, and parenting arrangements throughout Colleyville, Southlake, Keller, Grapevine, and Tarrant County .
Schedule a Child Custody Consultation
If you are facing a child custody dispute , the Law Offices of Kate Smith can assist with your child custody matter.
Whether you need help creating a visitation schedule , contact the Law Offices of Kate Smith to learn about your options .