Child Custody - Frequently Asked Questions

The courts prefer that both parents be involved in the decision-making regarding the child's life. Thus, in custody cases, the courts may award joint managing conservatorship, as it's known in Texas but may be also be known as joint legal custody. While in some cases, the court will also award joint … [Read more...]

Previously, the child could file a written preference with the court to inform a judge of his or her preference. But this led to problems when both parents had the child write down his or her name. So now, in a nonjury trial, the judge may interview the child in chambers to determine the child’s … [Read more...]

A non-custodial parent in Dallas may get reasonable visitation rights to ensure access to the child. When a parent physically abuses a family member in the home it is called domestic violence. In cases of child custody and parents’ visitation rights, domestic violence can affect a judge’s decision. … [Read more...]

In most cases, mediation is a much better option for determining child custody arrangements than a drawn-out court battle, it can:  result in a faster resolution; encourages communication between both parties; and be much cheaper than having the courts settle your custody … [Read more...]

In Texas, grandparents may have the right to possession and access to the child, or even the right to physical custody (managing conservatorship), which entails primary residence and/or ability to make decisions regarding the child’s life. This will depend on the circumstances and what the court … [Read more...]

When determining custody of a child, the courts will look at a criminal record. This also pertains to criminal convictions. Additionally, a new partner’s criminal record will come under scrutiny if your child often interacts with the new partner. Under Texas Family Code Section 153.002, the … [Read more...]

The parents may make decisions regarding who gets the children on certain holidays, or state laws may apply. Of course, it’s best if parents can come to a mutual agreement. In fact, it should be the goal (as much as possible) to work together on any issue surrounding the children. How the Standard … [Read more...]

Mothers’ rights in child custody do not automatically grant her care of a nursing infant. When determining custody, judges will look at a whole panel of factors, and whether or not the infant is breastfeeding is only one of the factors that will be taken into consideration. What Texas Laws Say … [Read more...]