The courts in Texas are given a great deal of discretion when determining child custody. However, the best interests of the child must ultimately be given priority under Texas family law. The Texas courts evaluate the ability of both parents to care for the child by looking at their finances, employment, and several other aspects of their lives.
Other factors the court will closely consider include:
- The stability of a home
- The wishes of the child, if the child is 12 or older
- Each parent’s plan for raising the child
- The physical and emotional needs of the child, both current and future
- Programs or systems available to assist the parent in caring for the child
- Any previous actions or inactions by a parent that may render them unfit to have custody of the minor child
- Each parent’s overall parenting ability
THE TOP FOUR MISTAKES TO AVOID IN TEXAS CUSTODY MATTERS
- Focusing on your issues with the other parent and not on the needs and concerns of the child – By law, the courts must base their decision on the best interests of the child and not the interests of the parents.
- Failing to obey court orders – Failure to adhere to court orders can have severe consequences in child custody cases. Whether related to visitation schedule, child support payments, or other stipulations, disregarding court orders can negatively impact your case.
- Failing to hire an experienced family law attorney – Navigating a child custody case in Texas can be a challenging journey, but with proper guidance, you can avoid the common pitfalls and increase your chances of a favorable outcome. At Bailey & Galyen, our family law attorneys provide the knowledge and support you need to navigate the complexities of any family law case.
- Failing to document important information – In child custody cases, documentation is key. When you have any interaction with the other parent, particularly if it’s about visitation schedules or communication, write it down. A detailed record can be invaluable in demonstrating behavior patterns and adherence to agreements.
By Family Law Attorney LaQuisha Batson
