The end of a tumultuous relationship or marriage can bring a unique set of difficulties when children are involved. If you and your ex- partner cannot come to a parenting agreement on your own or through mediation a Texas’ Judge will decide what is in the best interest of your child. Tensions may be especially high when there is a dispute about what living situation best serves your child when you and your partner decide to end your relationship. To reach a satisfactory parental agreement for yourself and child, contact the family lawyers at our law office to vigorously protect your parental rights and the best interests of your child.
Texas Public Policy: Best Interest Of The Child
Child custody, also know under Texas law as conservatorship, is guided by well developed public policy. Texas state public policy for child custody dictates that children have frequent and continual contact with parents who have shown the ability to act in the best interests of the child. In addition, public policy states that all children should be given a safe,stable, non-violent environment and that parents should be encouraged to harmoniously share in the rights and responsibilities of raising their child despite the end of their marriage or relationship.
Best Interest Of The Child Factors
The best interest of the child will be the primary consideration by a Texas court when determining child custody and access to a child. All relevant factors to your child and family history may be examined. Any history of physical or sexual abuse by either spouse against the child or anyone else will be considered when determining joint or sole managing conservatorship. A Texas court will not place a child in the custody of a parent if there is credible evidence of past or present neglect and or abuse. Family violence and or sexual abuse may be a determining factor to deny, restrict or limit access to a child.
Although parents are free to come to an agreed parenting plan on their own or through court ordered mediation, a Texas court will still have discretion to accept such an agreement or reject it if it is not in the best interest of the child. In determining custody in a nonjury trial, a judge may also ask any child over 12, in the privacy of their chambers, what their wishes are for custody and which parent’s household they wish to have as their primary place of residency. Therefore there are many factors a judge will consider before a determination of custody is made.
Contact A Lawyer
There are many relevant factors a Texas judge will consider when determining sole or joint custody for your child. The best method for achieving a satisfactory result in your case is to call (214) 234-2622 or contact the family lawyers at the Law Office of Lauren Cain to vigorously defend your parental rights. Child custody cases can often be an emotional process, however a family lawyer will guide you in creating parental agreement or fighting for what is in the best interest of your child.