Denton Child Custody Lawyers

Understanding Texas Child Custody Laws

In Texas, child custody is also referred to as "conservatorship." This term encompasses the legal rights and responsibilities of a parent or guardian to make decisions about a child's upbringing, including education, medical care, and religion.

Child custody is frequently one of the most contentious areas in family law – and sometimes it can get complicated. Even when the process is relatively harmonious, Texas family law is complex. The assistance of an experienced Denton child custody lawyer who understands the nuances of the local legal system can make a critical difference.

In addition to child custody, our Denton family lawyers also handle the following types of cases:

• Divorce
• Child support
• Alimony
• Property Division
• Custody modification
• Enforcement of Orders
• Protective Orders
• Criminal defense

Determining Child Custody in Denton County, TX

Texas courts consider various factors in child custody cases to resolve them in the child's best interest.

The factors that a Denton family judge will consider include:

• Emotional and physical needs of the child
• Ability of each parent to meet their child's needs
• The child's preference, if the child is 12 years old or older
• Stability of each parent's home environment
• Willingness of each parent to encourage a healthy relationship between the child and the other parent
• Any history of domestic violence

Types of Child Custody in Texas

Texas offers several options for child custody arrangements, including sole custody, joint custody, and split custody.

• Sole custody: One parent has both physical and legal custody of the child, meaning that this parent can make decisions about education, healthcare, and religion without consulting the other parent. The other parent may have visitation rights but is not involved in decision-making.
• Joint custody (shared custody): Both parents share legal rights and responsibilities for their children, including decisions about their education, healthcare, and religious upbringing.
• Split custody: Children of a divorced or separated couple spend equal time with each parent. This requires coordinating schedules and working together to make major decisions concerning their children's education, healthcare, and well-being.

Protecting Your Child's Best Interests

When it comes to child custody cases, the primary focus should always be on the best interests of the child. Our experienced Denton child custody lawyers understand the complexities and emotional challenges that come with these cases, and we are dedicated to advocating for the well-being of your child.

Our child custody attorneys at Goline & Roland Law Firm, PLLC is committed to providing compassionate and personalized legal representation to help you navigate the legal process and make informed decisions about your child's future.

Our custody lawyers can help you with:

• Creating a parenting plan that prioritizes your child's needs
• Negotiating custody arrangements with the other parent
• Representing you in court to fight for your parental rights
• Modifying existing custody orders to better serve your child's changing needs

When you work with us, you can trust that your child's best interests will always be at the forefront of our legal strategy. Contact our Denton child custody attorneys today to schedule a consultation and learn how we can help protect your child's future.

Don't wait to get started on your case. Contact our firm today to speak with our Denton child custody attorneys: (940) 400-0475.

Denton County Child Custody Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How Long Does a Child Custody Case Take in Texas?

The length of a child custody case may vary depending on several factors. A typical child custody case can anywhere from several months to a few years to be resolved.

A few of the factors that will play a role in the length of the child custody case include:

• The complexity of the case
• The willingness of both parties to reach a resolution
• The docket of the particular family court

In child custody cases, the court is primarily concerned with the best interest of the child. The court will work to ensure the case is resolved quickly while protecting and prioritizing the child's welfare.

How Does a Judge Decide Custody in Denton?

In Denton, judges consider numerous factors when deciding custody to ensure the ruling aligns with the child's best interests. These include the child's age, health, and emotional connections with each parent. Judges evaluate each parent's ability to provide a stable, nurturing environment. Judges also review the historical involvement of each parent in the child's daily activities to understand better who has been the primary caregiver.

Can Custody Agreements Be Modified If Circumstances Change?

Yes, child custody agreements can be modified if circumstances significantly change over time. This might include changes in a parent's job location, impacting their ability to keep visitation schedules, or drastic shifts in a child's needs or health. In Denton, parents seeking to modify an existing agreement must show the court that changes are in the child's best interest, and are are big enough changes that the current arrangement no longer meets the child's needs. Such modifications require a thorough understanding of legal procedures, and guidance from Goline & Roland Law Firm, PLLC. Our child custody lawyers in Denton can provide clarity and assistance in ensuring that any adjustments are properly documented and legally sound.

What Are Emergency Child Custody Orders?

Emergency custody orders are legal mandates designed to provide immediate protection to a child when their safety is at risk. This could involve suspected abuse, neglect, or if a parent's ability to provide care suddenly becomes impaired. In Denton, obtaining such an order requires proving that the child faces imminent harm, necessitating substantial evidence for the court. These orders are temporary, intending to stabilize the situation quickly while further proceedings investigate all circumstances. Goline & Roland Law Firm, PLLC is ready to help clients through the necessary legal steps to ensure the child's safety and well-being are prioritized.

What Should You Do If You're Facing a Child Custody Dispute?

Facing a custody dispute can be a stressful and emotionally charged experience, one where the guidance of an experienced child custody attorney can be invaluable.

Here are essential steps to consider if you find yourself in this situation:

• First, prioritize your child’s well-being. The court’s primary concern in any custody case is the best interests of the child. Ensure that your actions and decisions reflect a commitment to providing a stable and supportive environment for your child.
• Next, seek professional legal assistance. An experienced child custody lawyer can offer valuable guidance and help you navigate the complexities of custody laws. They will assist in building a strong case and represent your interests in court.
• Gather relevant documentation. This might include evidence of your involvement in your child’s life, such as records of school activities, medical appointments, and any other aspects of their care. Documentation that demonstrates your ability to provide a safe and nurturing environment is crucial.
• Communicate effectively with the other parent. If possible, try to negotiate and reach an amicable agreement outside of court. Open, respectful communication can sometimes lead to a mutually acceptable resolution without prolonged litigation.
• Prepare for court by understanding what to expect. Familiarize yourself with the custody process and the factors the court will consider in making a decision. This preparation can help reduce anxiety and ensure that you present your case effectively.
• Remain patient and resilient. Custody disputes can take time to resolve, and it’s important to stay focused on your child's needs throughout the process. With the right approach and the right child custody attorney on your side, you can work towards a favorable outcome for you and your child.

Where Do I File a Petition to Modify Child Support in Texas?

If the child still lives in Texas, you are expected to file the custody modification case with the court that issued the original custody order, even if the child now lives elsewhere in Texas. If the child has been living elsewhere for at least six months, however, you can petition the court to transfer the case to a new court in the child’s current jurisdiction so that future proceedings take place in the child’s new location. If the child no longer lives in Texas, the situation can get complicated. Hiring a highly knowledgeable Denton child custody lawyer that understands the laws in this area is very important.

What Is the Process for Modifying a Child Custody Order?

• You must file a modification petition with the court that issued the original order. The petition must assert legal grounds for modifying the original order.
• You must pay a filing fee and perhaps a service fee unless you are indigent.
• A hearing will be held on your petition, which the other parent is entitled to attend.

How Long Does a Child Custody Modification Case Take?

If everyone agrees, the case could be over in a few days. If your case is contested, however, the process could take considerably longer. Even if both parents agree, the judge will still apply the “best interests of the child” standard, and they are entitled to reject the custody modification petition.