Arlington Child Custody Lawyers

• Joint Managing Conservatorship: Joint managing conservatorship is the most common type of conservatorship in Texas. It allows both parents (the joint managing conservators) to share the responsibility of making important decisions about the child's life. While this arrangement encourages cooperation between parents, it does not necessarily mean equal parenting time or access. The court may still designate one parent as the primary residence, affecting the visitation schedule for the other parent.
• Possessory Conservatorship: The possessory conservator, often referred to as the noncustodial parent, has the right to spend time with the child according to a court-ordered visitation schedule. This parent does not have decision-making authority and must adhere to the orders set forth in the custody agreement. The possessory conservator's rights and visitation schedule may vary based on the specific circumstances of the case.

Texas has a standard possession order (SPO), which outlines the visitation schedule for the possessory conservator. This schedule typically includes weekend visitation, holiday visitation, and extended summer visitation, allowing the noncustodial parent to have meaningful time with the child.

Some families may choose or be granted an expanded standard possession order, which provides additional visitation time for the possessory conservator. This can include extended weekends or more extended summer visitation.

Parents involved in child custody disputes are encouraged to work together to create a parenting plan that reflects the unique needs of their family. If parents cannot agree, the court will make decisions based on the best interests of the child. Consulting with an experienced family law attorney in Texas is essential to understand the legal processes and to advocate for your rights and your child's well-being.

How Does the Court Determine Child Custody?

Custody and visitation (visitation is the arrangement under which the noncustodial parent spends time with the child) are determined by the court. It is important to remember that the court's main concern is the best interests of the child.

When determining custody and visitation, the court will consider:

• The age and health of the parent and child
• The child's mental and physical health
• The child's age and developmental needs
• The distance between the parents' residences
• The ability of each parent to provide the child with a stable, moral, and healthy environment
• The child's preference, if the child is old enough to express a preference
• The child's relationships with siblings, grandparents, other relatives, and friends
• The ability of each parent to provide the child with financial support
• The parents' ability to provide a stable and moral environment
• If either parent has a history of family violence
• If either parent is unfit or incompetent
• If either parent is or is about to relocate
• If either parent is or is about to remarry or cohabitate
• If the child is handicapped or disabled
• If either parent is responsible for the child's education
• If either parent is responsible for the child's medical care
• Any other factor the court deems relevant

Why Choose Us?

Navigating child custody matters can be overwhelming, but you don't have to do it alone. If you're in need of a skilled Arlington child custody lawyer to represent your interests and safeguard your child's future, don't hesitate to reach out to the Law Office of Mark M. Childress.

The following are several reasons why you should choose our firm:

• Experience: Our team has extensive experience in family law, including child custody cases. He has successfully represented countless clients in Arlington and throughout Texas.
• Compassion: We understand the emotional strain that child custody cases can put on parents and children. We approach each case with the compassion and sensitivity it deserves.
• Client-Centered Approach: Our firm prioritizes open communication with our clients. We'll take the time to understand your unique situation and tailor our legal strategies to best serve your needs.
• Legal Expertise: Our team keeps up-to-date with the ever-evolving family law landscape in Texas. We are well-versed in the local laws and regulations that govern child custody cases in Arlington.
• Strategic Advocacy: We pride ourselves on our meticulous preparation and strategic advocacy. We will fight tirelessly for your rights, both inside and outside the courtroom.

Contact us today at (817) 497-8148 for compassionate and personalized guidance in Arlington, TX.