Child Custody

Child Custody Lawyer in Colleyville, TX

Offering Board-Certified Expertise in Grapevine & Tarrant County

Making decisions regarding child custody and visitation during and after a divorce or in a paternity case can be difficult and extremely contentious. Courts favor an agreement that allows both parents to maintain a meaningful relationship with their children. However, in cases where no agreement can be reached, it will be left up to the courts to decide. It is Texas state law to make arrangements that it deems to be in the best interests of the child. The most popular agreement is a form of joint custody since it is believed that children should have a continuing relationship with both parents during and after this ordeal of transitioning from one to two households.

At the Law Offices of Kate Smith, PLLC, I have represented countless parents in negotiating and drafting a child custody and visitation schedule, which can then be submitted to the court for approval. Whenever this is not possible, I provide expert representation in court strongly advocating for my clients’ parental rights and privileges. Attorney Kate Smith understands that every child custody case is different and that each individual has their own set of unique circumstances, personalities, needs, and desires. Every case needs to be settled on a case-by-case basis, taking into consideration the best interests of the children. I take pride in the results I have achieved for my clients using all available legal means and methods for reaching a favorable outcome — even in the most challenging circumstances.

Need legal help resolving custody and visitation? Phone the Law Offices of Kate Smith, PLLC at 817-479-0534 to arrange for a consultation.

How is Child Custody Determined in Texas?

Texas courts find it preferable for you and your spouse to work out a custody and visitation arrangement on your own that both parties can agree to. When this fails or cannot be accomplished, the courts will determine the arrangement for you. The court will base its decision on a variety of factors.

These factors can include:

• Who acted as the primary caretaker of the child
• The child’s age
• The preference of the child if old enough (aged 12 and above) to have a valid opinion
• The child’s relationship with both parents
• The age, health, and financial resources of both parents
• The child’s physical and emotional needs
• Whether child neglect, domestic violence, or substance abuse has occurred in the past by a parent
• The parenting abilities of each parent
• The stability of any proposed home
• Access to any extended family or other support system

In Texas, child custody is referred to as “conservatorship.” Conservatorship refers to your legal rights and responsibilities as a parent, including the right to make decisions about the child’s health care, education, religious upbringing, and other matters. In Texas, both joint managing conservatorship and sole managing conservatorship exist. Although courts favor joint conservatorship, it does not necessarily mean both parents will receive an equal amount of time with the children.

Standard Possession Orders

A separate visitation schedule is required in child custody cases. The process of creating one may begin with a “standard possession order,” which can be negotiated or modified into a more customized arrangement that fits the needs and circumstances of your case. A standard possession order for children above the age of three outlines a schedule for the days, weekends, holidays, birthdays, summer vacations, and more that the child will spend with the noncustodial parent.

While all this may sound complicated, my firm is here to help you understand how the courts operate as well as help you reach an optimum solution regarding this matter. With my considerable experience, knowledge, and skills, I believe I am poised to provide you with superior service for this family law issue.

Arrange for a consultation with a Colleyville child custody attorney at 817-479-0534 today.