Denton Child Custody Attorney

Decades of family law Experience Serving Denton county, Texas

Legal issues involving your children are likely to be the most important. You and your ex must determine how to share the responsibilities of raising your children now that you are no longer together. 

This process can be highly emotional and drawn out, especially without the help of a Denton child custody lawyer.

When you retain the Law Office of David S. Bouschor, II P.C., you benefit from the resources and guidance of family law attorneys that have served countless families since 1991. 

Over the years, our lawyers have established ourselves as trusted and experienced advocates who truly care about the outcome of every child custody case in Texas and how it will impact each child's future. 

Our divorce attorneys can provide you with the resources and tools you need to make an informed decision about your family’s situation. 

Our legal team prioritizes your child’s best interests and works to make the process as stress-free as possible for them.

Get compassionate representation backed by decades of experience. Call (940) 202-8323to consulta child custody attorney in Denton, Texas.

What Does the Court Consider When Determining Child Custody in Texas?

If parents cannot agree on custody arrangements, the court will intervene and decide for them. The court will decide what it believes is in the best interest of the children.

When making this decision, the Texas court will consider:

• The child’s relationship with each parent
• The child’s welfare, safety, and health
• Each parent’s physical and mental ability to care for the child
• Recommendations from a Child Custody Evaluation, if any
• The child’s preference (if the child is at least 12 years old)

Our Denton child custody attorneys can evaluate your circumstances from a legal standpoint and work to uphold your rights as a parent. 

Our lawyers can help you explore your options and explain how this will affect your loved ones moving forward.

Types of Custody 

• Sole custody: means that only one parent has the right to make all major decisions relating to the health, education, and welfare of a child, and may make such decisions without getting the other parent's input.
• Joint custody: means that both parents share the right and responsibility to make decisions relating to the health, education, and welfare of a child.
• Legal custody: grants decision-making control over the education, healthcare and religious training of your child, and over day-to-day matters.
• Physical custody: determines where your child will live, this may be joint.

How long does a child custody case take in Texas?

Child custody attorney cases in Denton can take a long time, typically a few months. The lawyer will file the necessary paperwork with the court, and then the judge will set a date for a hearing. 

The hearing will be held to determine whether the children should be placed in the custody of one parent or the other. In some cases, the judge may also order a psychological evaluation of the children. 

Once the decision has been made, the Texas Family Code requires that the order be followed. If one parent does not comply with the order, the other parent may file a motion to have the order enforced. 

Child custody cases can be complex and emotional, so it is important to have an experienced Denton family law attorney by your side.

Does Texas favor a mother in custody?

Denton family law attorneys will always fight for the best interest of the children. In Texas, the courts presume that it is in the best interest of the children to have contact with both parents. 

This presumption can be rebutted by evidence that it would not be in the best interest of the children to have contact with one or both parents. 

Navigating the complex waters of child custody arrangements can be emotionally taxing and legally challenging for parents. A skilled Denton child custody attorney can be an invaluable asset during this time, providing not only legal expertise but emotional support as well. These attorneys understand the nuances of family law and can offer tailored advice and strategies to protect your parental rights and your child's well-being. With a commitment to achieving the best possible outcomes, a child custody lawyer can guide you through the legal process, ensuring your voice is heard and your concerns are addressed.

What Makes a Parent Unfit in Texas?

In Texas, determining whether a parent is unfit involves assessing the parent's ability to provide a safe, stable, and nurturing environment for their child. Various factors are considered to protect the child's best interests and overall well-being.

• Abuse or Neglect: Evidence of physical, emotional, or sexual abuse can render a parent unfit. Neglect, which includes failing to provide essential food, shelter, medical care, or supervision, is also a critical factor.
• Substance Abuse: Chronic alcohol or drug abuse can severely impair a parent's ability to care for their child. If a parent is frequently intoxicated or under the influence, it poses significant risks to the child's safety and well-being.
• Mental Health Issues: Severe or untreated mental health conditions that hinder a parent's ability to provide proper care and supervision can be grounds for unfitness. The court assesses whether these mental health issues pose a risk to the child's physical or emotional well-being.
• Domestic Violence: A history of domestic violence, whether directed at the child or another household member, can deem a parent unfit. Exposure to such violence can have profound psychological effects on the child.
• Criminal Behavior: Participation in criminal activities, particularly those that affect the parent's ability to ensure a safe environment, can lead to a finding of unfitness. This includes incarceration or involvement in illegal activities in the presence of the child.
• Parental Alienation: Attempts to undermine or interfere with the child's relationship with the other parent can be considered when determining unfitness. Such behavior can harm the child's emotional well-being.

The court's primary concern is the child's best interests. If a parent is found to be unfit, custody arrangements will be made to ensure the child's safety and stability, often involving placing the child with the other parent or a responsible guardian.

How Child Custody Lawyers Support Parents:

• Legal Guidance: We explain the custody laws in Texas, how they apply to your specific situation, and your rights as a parent.
• Custody Plan Development: Our attorneys can assist in developing a detailed custody plan that prioritizes the child’s needs while also addressing the parents' wishes.
• Negotiation: We can act as mediators to help parents reach a mutually agreeable custody arrangement without the need for a court intervention.
• Court Representation: We provide representation in court if negotiations fail, advocating for your best interests and those of your child.
• Documentation and Filings: We handle all necessary legal documentation and filings, ensuring that everything is in order for the court's consideration.
• Modification and Enforcement: We help with modifying existing custody orders as life circumstances change and assist in enforcing custody arrangements if one parent fails to comply.
• Expert Resources: We have access to a network of child psychologists, counselors, and other experts to support your case or your child’s needs during the custody process.

By focusing on amicable solutions and the well-being of the child, a child custody attorney can ease the stress of custody disputes, helping parents to move forward with their lives while maintaining meaningful relationships with their children.

Need help determining how to file for child custody in Denton, Texas? Learn more about your options. Contact the Law Office of David S. Bouschor, II, P.C.at (940) 202-8323today.