Divorce is often a stressful, emotional, and time-consuming process. Adding child custody to the mix can make it even more complex, particularly when parents cannot agree on a parenting plan. The best Fort Worth Child Custody Lawyers can help parents reach a resolution that is in their children’s best interests. They can also provide assistance with other family law issues such as child support, property division, and alimony.
While it is preferable that parents can reach a child custody agreement on their own, when this is not possible, the courts will decide the arrangement. The court will consider a number of factors, but the primary concern is what is in the best interest of the child. The judge will look at each parent’s ability to meet the child’s physical and emotional needs. It will also evaluate each parent’s ability to understand and participate in the child’s life. The safety of the child is another important factor that the court will examine. A guardian ad litem will likely be involved to interview the child and assess each parent’s abilities.
The wishes of the parents will also be taken into account, but this is not a strong determinative factor. A child custody dispute can be resolved through mediation, but a trial may be necessary if the parties are unable to reach a mutually agreeable resolution.
In Texas, a parent with physical custody of a child is called a “possessory conservator.” The other parent, known as the noncustodial parent, will usually have visitation rights. If one of the parents wants to move with the child, a judge must approve the relocation and devise a visitation schedule that is in the best interest of the child.
Child Support
Both parents are legally obligated to financially support their children, regardless of the custody arrangement. In order to determine child support, the courts will use guidelines that take into consideration both parents’ incomes. However, the judge may deviate from these guidelines if doing so is in the child’s best interests. An experienced child support lawyer can help ensure that your child receives the financial resources he or she needs.