Child Custody in Texas

Protecting Your Parental Rights in Texas

Navigating a child custody dispute can feel overwhelming. At Texas Custody Lawyer, our mission is to guide you through every step of the conservatorship process while keeping your child’s best interests at heart. Whether you’re filing your first petition or seeking a modification of an existing order, our seasoned attorneys deliver personalized strategies designed to secure the most favorable outcome for your family.

Understanding Conservatorship Under Texas Law

In Texas, what most people call “custody” is legally referred to as conservatorship. Under the Texas Family Code:

• Joint Managing Conservatorship (JMC): Both parents share decision-making rights regarding education, healthcare, and living arrangements.
  
• Sole Managing Conservatorship (SMC): One parent holds all decision-making authority when it’s in the child’s best interests.
  
• Possessory Conservatorship: The non-managing parent has visitation rights but limited decision-making privileges.
  

Courts default to joint conservatorship unless there is evidence of abuse, neglect, or a history of family violence. In those cases, sole managing conservatorship may be awarded to protect the child’s safety and welfare.

Here is a detailed video explaination.

Our Approach to Child Custody Matters

At Texas Custody Lawyer, we combine legal expertise with compassionate advocacy. From the moment you reach out to us, we:

1. Assess Your Situation: We conduct a thorough review of your family dynamics, financial stability, and any relevant history to determine the strongest legal approach.
   
2. Develop a Strategy: Whether through mediation or litigation, we craft a plan tailored to your goals and the court’s criteria under Texas Family Code § 153.002.
   
3. Build Your Case: We gather evidence—school records, medical reports, character references—and prepare compelling arguments that highlight your role as a responsible, loving parent.
   
4. Negotiate & Advocate: We leverage our negotiation skills to reach amicable agreements, and if mediation stalls, we stand ready to represent you aggressively in court.
   

The Custody Process in Texas Courts

1. Filing the SAPCR: Initiate your case by submitting a Petition for Suit Affecting the Parent-Child Relationship (SAPCR).
   
2. Mediation Requirements: Many Texas counties, including Harris County, mandate mediation if both parents’ combined income falls below a threshold.
   
3. Discovery & Preparation: Exchange information with the other party, gather documentation, and prepare witnesses.
   
4. Hearings & Trial: Present your case, submit evidence, and testify. The judge will consider factors such as child’s emotional needs, parent–child relationships, and each parent’s ability to provide a stable home.
   
5. Final Order: The court issues a conservatorship and possession order that governs decision-making and visitation schedules.
   

Critical Factors in Custody Decisions

Texas courts prioritize the child’s best interests. Key considerations include:

• Parental Stability: A consistent home environment and financial security.
  
• Emotional Bonds: The quality of the parent–child relationship, school involvement, and extracurricular participation.
  
• Safety Concerns: Any history of domestic violence, substance abuse, or neglect.
  
• Parental Cooperation: Evidence of willingness to support the child’s relationship with the other parent.
  

Addressing Common Custody Challenges

• Parental Alienation: Courts recognize attempts to undermine the child’s relationship with the other parent and may adjust conservatorship accordingly.
  
• Relocation Disputes: A parent seeking to move must show that relocation is in the child’s best interests and not an attempt to limit visitation.
  
• High-Conflict Cases: When emotions run high, we help de-escalate disputes and focus on solutions that protect your child’s well-being.
  

Modifying Existing Custody Orders

Life changes—new jobs, remarriage, or a child’s growing needs—may require revisiting an existing custody order. We assist clients in demonstrating a material and substantial change in circumstances under Texas Family Code § 156.101 to obtain modifications that reflect current realities.

Why Choose Texas Custody Lawyer?

• Local Expertise: Dedicated focus on Texas Family Code and Harris County procedures.
  
• Proven Track Record: Successful outcomes in both negotiations and contested trials.
  
• Client-Centered Service: Clear communication, compassionate support, and strategic advocacy at every stage.
  

Frequently Asked Questions

Secure Your Family’s Future Today

Don’t navigate the custody process alone. Contact a Texas Custody Lawyer for a confidential consultation, and let us protect what matters most—your relationship with your child.