Lake Jackson Child Custody Lawyer
Child Custody in Texas
Legal matters involving child custody can be emotionally charged, with feelings of distrust, frustration, and anger complicating the prospect of resolutions. When divorcing parents simply cannot come to an agreement, disputes can head into the courtroom. At JM Davis Law PLLC, we know what is on the line and we can help you to understand your legal options in the case ahead. Our Lake Jackson and Houston family law attorneys possess substantial experience helping families reach their goals and can be in your corner during every phase of the custody process.
When the future of your family is on the line, time may not be on your side. Schedule a consultation with our child custody attorneys and begin on your case today.
Determining the Best Interest of the Child
When taken to court, a judge will award child custody based on the legal standard of what is in the best interest of the child. This means that the wants and preferences of parents are generally overshadowed by the conditions that maximize the care and support for a child. Just as every family can bring a different story into the courtroom, each case is looked at and decided on an individual basis.
There are numerous factors which can influence a judge’s decision on child custody including:
- The stability of the living environment provided by each parent
- The physical and mental health of the parents
- If the child has any special needs or medical considerations
- Each parent’s financial situation
- The strength of the parent-child relationship
- Any evidence of domestic abuse, violence, or neglect
The overall success of your case can be greatly influenced by the accurate communication of your situation. Towards this goal, our dedicated attorneys can help you to prepare and organize your case to ensure that your voice is heard.
Types of Custody
The term “custody” can be broken down into two main categories: sole custody and joint custody. As the names imply, joint custody refers to situations where parents share responsibility for a child while sole custody indicates that only one parent is granted custody. Typically, courts will look to award joint custody and keep both parents actively involved in the life of their child. However, sole custody may be considered when the alternative would be extremely detrimental to a child, such as in cases of domestic violence.
Further complicating matters, custody can also refer to both the responsibility of making choices in the child’s life, known as legal custody, and the actual location where the child stays, known as physical custody. What is best for your family and how a judge may award custody can depend on a wide range of factors. For example, if parents live far from one another it may be impractical to award joint physical custody. However, in these situations, a judge may still award joint legal custody while granting the non-custodial parent visitation rights.
Questions about Child Custody? Call (855) 390-0455
At JM Davis Law PLLC, we understand just how difficult matters of family law can be, especially when they involve the well-being of your children. Whether you are a divorcing spouse or a parent looking to revisit an existing custody agreement, you do not have to go through this struggle alone. Our Lake Jackson and Houston family law attorneys can provide compassionate advocacy you can rely on to see that the best interests of you and your family are upheld.
Do you have questions about family law? We have answers. Contact our offices today and talk to an experienced attorney.