Bastrop, TX Custody Lawyers

Understanding Custody Procedures In Texas

Custody is referred to as conservatorship in Texas, and there are two kinds: managing conservatorship (which refers to decision-making power) and possessory conservatorship (which refers to parenting time or visitation). These conservatorships can either be shared jointly between both parents or allocated to solely one parent. 

Texas courts prioritize joint conservatorship as it’s generally believed to be in a child’s best interests for both parents to remain actively involved, though time may not be equally split and only one parent might be designated as “primary.” 

Sole conservatorship may be granted if evidence shows the child’s safety or wellbeing is at risk, and the non-custodial parent typically receives visitation rights, often outlined in a Standard Possession Order (SPO) that can be adjusted to fit the family’s needs. Sole custody is often only rewarded in cases of an unfit parent that:

• Has a history of drug or alcohol abuse

• Has a history of sexual offenses

• Has a history of abuse (emotional and/or physical)

• Cannot provide suitable or stable living conditions for the child

• Has a history of family violence

Our experienced Bastrop custody lawyers will always protect the best interests of children and fight for the custody arrangement that ensures they’ll be safe and cared for. 

Reaching Custody Agreements During Divorce

It’s common for parents to disagree on custody matters, because it’s understandably difficult to think about your children not being in your care 24/7. However, when parents have a cooperative mindset, it is possible for them to work together to reach an agreement which is favorable to both of them and works for their family. Mediation and collaborative divorce are alternative methods of dispute resolution that allow them that opportunity, while also saving time and money.

Those aren’t right for everyone, though. If you’re already deep into a custody dispute or any of the above conditions of an unfit parent are present in your case, litigation will likely be the best and surest path forward. Our Bastrop custody lawyers are skilled and capable litigators willing to go the extra mile to advocate for your kids and your parental rights. 

Custody Modification Procedures

Making a custody modification in Texas is one of the most expensive and challenging processes you can go through in family court, and your chance of success is minimal. Now, you might be thinking, “But my case is different!” In our decades of collective experience, we’ve seen every reason in the book for parents to seek custody modifications, including:

• Relocation

• Job changes

• Safety concerns

• Change in the child’s physical, emotional, or educational needs

• Lack of parental involvement

• Decline of parental health

• Change in the child’s preferences

• Remarriage

• Parent’s regained stability 

• And more. 

Custody modifications are expensive and it’s extremely hard to get what you want – but sometimes it’s the only option. As parents ourselves, we understand that, at times, we must all make hard decisions to protect and provide for our kids. Our Bastrop custody lawyers will build the strongest possible case on your behalf and put you in the best position for getting the modification you desire granted by the court. 

Our Bastrop Custody Lawyers Fight For Your Kids’ Best Interests And Protect Your Parental Rights. Contact Hembree Bell Law Firm Today To Learn More

We’ve been where you are! You don’t have to navigate the challenges of custody alone. We’re here to support you throughout your case by not only lending our decades of collective experience to your situation, but offering emotional support and helpful resources when you need it. Call today to book your free case evaluation and learn more about what comes next.