Dallas Child Custody Lawyer

Dallas Child Custody Attorney

Child custody cases are among the most challenging and emotional legal issues anyone will face. Whether you are dealing with a divorce where children are involved or determining custody as a single parent, the advice and counsel of a Dallas child custody lawyer is crucial to help protect your interests and reach a fair agreement.

Recent legislative changes to Texas child custody laws could impact your case. For parents navigating new child custody decisions or managing existing orders, it’s important to know your rights. At Young Law Firm, our Dallas family law attorney has over four decades of experience with child custody and family law. We are dedicated to our clients and offer the highest level of knowledge and legal representation.

You don’t have to face child custody issues alone. Hire a child custody lawyer to help you understand the law and make the right decisions for your family.

Child Custody in Texas

While many states use the term custody when referring to a parent’s court-ordered relationship with a minor child, Texas uses the term conservatorship. There are three types of conservators:

• Joint managing conservator, where both parents share in making decisions for healthcare, education, and other important matters. One parent serves as the primary custodian, and the other parent serves as the secondary. This is the arrangement most preferred by the Texas family courts.
• Sole managing conservator, in which one parent has sole custodial rights over the child and makes all major decisions. Sole conservatorship applies in situations of parental absence, child abuse, violence, or drug or alcohol use by the other parent.
• A possessory conservator, which means the other parent, or parents, when the child is placed in the care of another relative or guardian, still has parental rights for parenting time and contact with the child, but will not have the final say on most decisions. The other parent in most sole managing conservatorships is named the possessory conservator.

How Custody Is Determined

Texas supports joint conservatorship in most situations, as children usually benefit the most when both parents are involved in their lives. The court evaluates the relationship each parent has with the child, and the condition, stability, and conduct of both parties when determining custodial rights and child support.

To build a fair and effective child custody case, it’s important to consider what will serve the best interests of the child, and if the child is mature enough, their wishes. When you consult with your attorney, you can surface any concerns you may have about the other parent and your child’s needs.

At Young Law Firm, we can help you build a comprehensive plan for joint or sole conservatorship and advocate for you at any of the Dallas County Family District Courts. We understand how much you care about your children, and custody arrangements can and should reflect that.

Modifying an Existing Custody Agreement

Conservatorship orders can be modified in certain circumstances, such as when a parent relocates to another state, one parent is not following the order, there’s evidence of neglect, abuse, or drug or alcohol misuse, there’s a change in the child’s needs, or the child has reached the age of 12 or older and expressed a preference for living with the other parent.

Motions to modify are usually not granted for simple disagreements and differing preferences. However, custody arrangements should address any substantial life changes that may impact the child’s best interests. Modifying a custody order doesn’t have to be stressful. An experienced lawyer can offer advice and guidance to help make the process of modification go as smoothly and efficiently as possible.

FAQs

How Much Does a Child Custody Lawyer Cost in Texas?

The cost of hiring a child custody lawyer depends on several factors, including the complexity of the case, whether the custody case is part of a divorce agreement, or modifying an existing order. The cost of retaining legal counsel reflects the experience of the lawyer and the hours the legal team dedicates to your case. Attorneys should disclose their fees during the initial consultation, after hearing the details of your case.

What Is the Biggest Mistake You Can Make in a Custody Battle?

One of the biggest mistakes a parent or guardian can make during a divorce or custody case is creating conflict and contention instead of cooperating to bring about a fair arrangement. Most children need the support and love of both parents to ensure a safe and happy childhood. The child’s well-being should always be the first priority, and the courts uphold this. Creating unnecessary conflict demonstrates a lack of consideration and is not viewed favorably by most judges.

Can a Dad Get 50/50 Custody in Texas?

It’s the usual preference of the courts to rule for a joint conservatorship, where both parents have equal say in decisions concerning their child. 50/50, equal parenting time, is a separate issue. Most judges rule for a standard possession order, which establishes the primary household the child will reside in for the majority of their non-school hours. Legally, a father can be awarded standard possession. Over three million children in the US live with their fathers.

Should I Hire a Child Custody Lawyer in Texas?

It is always advisable to consult with a qualified family law and child custody lawyer when minor children are involved in a divorce or any other custody situation. Texas custody laws are complex and subject to changes in legislation. An attorney can help you understand how the laws impact your situation. Most attorneys offer an affordable initial consultation without obligation, and at Young Law Firm, your first consultation is free.

Contact Young Law Firm for Your Custody Questions

At Young Law Firm, LLC, we represent parents who care about their child’s future. Custody cases in Dallas can be stressful, time-consuming, and create a financial strain, but with decades of experience advocating for fathers and mothers in the family court system, we understand what’s at stake.

We will listen to your concerns and build a compelling legal case to help you receive a fair decision. Contact us today or call us at 770-824-9553 to schedule your free 30-minute consultation. We accept all major credit cards.