If you are a parent, maintaining a loving relationship with your children is one of your highest priorities. So, when a custody dispute threatens to disrupt your access to your children and your authority over them, it’s important to consult a knowledgeable attorney with the skill and experience necessary to protect your rights. At Hayes, Berry, White & Vanzant, LLP, our family law attorneys draw on extensive experience to deliver exceptional representation. Responding to the unique needs of your family, we pursue custody solutions that protect your parental rights and promote the best interests of your children.
Many states use the terms “legal custody” and “physical custody” to describe a parent’s rights where their children are concerned. In Texas, court-ordered child custody is formally called conservatorship of the child. Under the law, there are three types of child conservators:
The court also issues a possession order, which details where the child lives. If the child lives with only one parent, the noncustodial parent is generally awarded visitation.
Since 1995, the law has favored joint managing conservatorships allowing the child to spend nearly equal time with each parent. However, this arrangement is not feasible or beneficial for all families. An appropriate custody schedule or parenting plan takes into consideration many factors:
In many cases, it is possible to create a manageable parenting plan through negotiations or mediation. You can then present your parenting plan to the court for approval, and it becomes the basis for your possession order. However, if you have reason to believe that continuing contact with the other parent may be harmful to your child, it’s important to try the issue before a judge to obtain a restrictive order that protects your child.
Our family law attorneys are adept at designing parenting plans that fit the needs and lifestyles of our clients. But, whenever necessary, we can take your child custody issues to court and present your concerns in a compelling manner. Although no attorney can guarantee results, we are determined to do our utmost to protect your parental rights and your child’s welfare.
Hayes, Berry, White & Vanzant, LLP represents North Texas clients in child custody disputes. Call us at 940-230-2386 or contact us online to schedule a consultation. We have four North Texas offices, located in Denton, Flower Mound, Gainesville and Celina.