When child custody and visitation become disputed, having a clear understanding of your legal options can be important. Kate Smith Law represents parents in the surrounding Tarrant County area in custody and visitation disputes .
Child Custody Lawyer in Colleyville & Southlake, TX
Child custody and visitation decisions can become difficult and contentious . In some cases, parents can reach an agreement on a parenting and possession arrangement that can be incorporated into a court order .
When an agreement cannot be reached , the court may determine the arrangement . Texas courts consider the best interests of the child when making custody decisions.
How Texas Courts Decide Child Custody
Courts may favor parents to reach an agreement regarding parenting time . When negotiations fail, the court may decide the custody issues based on the circumstances of the case .
Factors Considered in Texas Child Custody Cases
- 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 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
- The parenting abilities of each parent
- The stability of a proposed home
- Available extended family or support systems
What Is Conservatorship in Texas?
Texas family law uses “conservatorship” to describe parental custody rights and responsibilities. Conservatorship involves the rights and responsibilities of a parent , including decisions concerning health care, education, religious upbringing, and other matters affecting the child .
Conservatorship arrangements can include joint or sole managing conservatorship. Being joint managing conservators does not automatically create a 50/50 schedule .
Understanding Standard Possession Orders
A parenting-time schedule is generally needed in child custody cases . The Texas standard possession framework can provide a starting framework covering various periods of possession.
A Standard Possession Order may be adapted to the family's circumstances to create a more appropriate parenting schedule .
Child Custody and Parenting Arrangements
Our family law practice, parents may obtain legal representation with resolving child custody and visitation issues. When an agreement is possible , the agreement can be documented and submitted to the court .
When negotiations do not produce a workable solution, experienced legal representation 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. Learning how conservatorship works can help parents make informed decisions about their case.
Child Custody Representation in Colleyville
Families facing custody disputes in Colleyville , working with knowledgeable custody counsel can provide assistance with custody negotiations . Each family has unique circumstances , which is why the appropriate legal strategy should take into account the individual circumstances involved.
Choosing a Texas Child Custody Lawyer
Child custody matters can have a significant impact on parents and children . An experienced child custody attorney can help explain your legal options and advocate for your parental rights .
The Law Offices of Kate Smith brings experience handling custody read more 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 help you understand your legal options .
Whether you are negotiating a custody agreement , schedule a consultation to discuss your circumstances .