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Do You Need Help Making Child Custody Decisions?

There are a variety of difficult decisions that must be made during the divorce process, and those regarding child custody are often the hardest. This is understandable as these are major decisions that will have a huge impact on your children and their future. Parents with custody of their children will not only have the responsibility of taking care of their kids’ day-to-day needs, but must also determine their place of residence, make important health care decisions and much more.

Factors Affecting Sole Or Joint Custody Arrangements

Court orders regarding child custody in the state of Texas are centered around creating an agreement that favors the best interests of the child. Because of this, courts will often look to both parents to come up with a plan for joint custody over the children, as frequent contact with both parents is usually best for them. However, in certain instances, it may be better for only one of the parents to have sole custody of the child.

Some of the factors that may affect child custody arrangements include:

  • The suitability and stability of the home environment
  • The ability of each parent to care for the child
  • A history of, or potential for, abuse or neglect
  • Evidence of drug or alcohol abuse in the home
  • The reasonable preferences of the child, if they are over the age of 12

Answering Your Questions

Facing child custody matters often comes with a lot of questions about what comes next. Our team at Benouis Law Ltd., LLP can help you answer these and other questions about child custody in Texas.

What types of custody are available?

Divorcing couples have many different options when it comes to parenting agreements. With sole custody, one parent has physical custody and legal decision-making rights for a child. Joint custody is when both parents split responsibilities. This includes where the child lives and who makes decisions about their health and schooling.

As a grandparent, can I gain custody of a child?

If it is in the best interest of the child, a grandparent can request custody. In doing so, you must explain why the child should live with you instead of their parents. Common reasons include abuse and neglect, drug or alcohol abuse, or the death of their biological parents.

Is it possible to modify a custody order?

Yes. As a child grows older, a family’s custody arrangements may need to change. Remarriage, divorce, job changes or moves may make it necessary for a family to adjust their custody plans. In these situations, you must show the court why it is a good idea to modify your current agreement.

What is an emergency custody order? How do I get one?

An emergency custody order is designed to protect a child who may be in immediate danger. In order to secure one, you must file a petition in court. If the judge grants an emergency order, you can temporarily assume full custody of the child until a permanent solution is found. These will typically only be in effect for a few weeks.

How can I create a parenting plan that works for the entire family?

While it can be difficult to put your personal preferences aside, it is important to keep the best interests of your children at the forefront of every situation. Doing what is most beneficial to them will lead to a healthier, happier future. When possible, communicate with your former partner and negotiate as best you can. Ms. Benouis can help you do this.

Personalized Service Customized To Your Needs

Attorney Catherine Benouis at Benouis Law, is highly experienced in handling child custody cases and can assist clients in creating a joint agreement, having their rights protected in court or anything in between. Ms. Benouis is dedicated to personalized family law service that is customized to your needs and can take a traditional or collaborative approach to your divorce, according to the unique requirements of your situation.

Learn more by contacting the firm now at 512-764-3932 to schedule a consultation.