A child custody case can feel like everything is on the line. Many mothers understandably dread the idea of a court deciding how much time they can spend with their own children. During this difficult time, having strong, reliable legal representation can be an invaluable asset, one that protects your relationship, your time, and what matters most.
At WSM, we represent women exclusively, giving mothers the strategic support they need to protect their children, their time, and their rights. Whether you’re going through a divorce, facing a post-decree dispute, or pursuing a new parenting plan, a trusted Austin child custody lawyer for women can help you prepare for what lies ahead.
Call 380-212-3731 to schedule a free consultation and learn how WSM can help you fight for your children’s future.
While Texas family courts don’t use the word “custody” in their legal code, the concept applies here as it does in other states. Custody is divided into two main areas: conservatorship (decision-making) and possession (time with the child). Understanding these distinctions is key to building a solid parenting plan.
In Texas, legal custody refers to a parent’s right to make decisions about education, medical care, and other major life matters. Physical custody, called “possession and access,” refers to where the child lives and how time is divided.
Both types of custody can be held jointly by both parents or solely by one parent. When both parents are found to be fit to parent, the courts generally award some form of joint custody. This does not mean that the child evenly splits visitation time between parents; one parent may be awarded more time with their child than the other.
Most parents are named joint managing conservators, meaning they share rights and responsibilities. However, in high-conflict or unsafe situations, one parent may be named the sole managing conservator.
This gives them the exclusive right to make important decisions about where their child lives, goes to school, receives medical treatments, and other child-rearing decisions. This often comes into play when there is a history of violence, neglect, or substance abuse.
Texas encourages parenting plans that promote regular, meaningful contact with both parents. The standard possession order is the default schedule, but it can be modified to meet the child’s needs or the parent’s work schedule. Custom agreements may also be created for holidays, summers, and school breaks.
Texas courts are required to base custody decisions on the child’s best interests, but that determination can involve many variables. Judges have the discretion to base their decisions on a wide range of factors before issuing orders.
Some of the most influential considerations include:
No two families are the same, which is why outcomes can vary widely. A skilled Austin child custody attorney can present evidence in a way that highlights your strengths as a parent and challenges any concerns raised by the other party. Preparation and credibility play a major role in shaping how the court sees your case.
Court orders are not decided based on emotional appeals. Securing a favorable custody outcome requires preparation, clarity, and credible documentation. Courts want to see that you not only love your child but that you actively support their emotional, educational, and physical well-being.
A strong custody case may include:
Your history of being consistently there for your child can go a long way in family court. If the other parent tries to misrepresent you as something other than a loving and present parent, your attorney can challenge those false accusations using evidence and testimony.
An experienced Austin custody lawyer can help you focus on the right evidence, prepare you for court appearances, and advocate clearly for your relationship with your child.
Life doesn’t stop after a custody order is issued, and the courts understand that there are times when it is reasonable and appropriate to modify a custody or support order to better reflect the realities of the child’s current life.
That said, modifications do require the petitioning party to demonstrate that there has been a substantial and material change that necessitates court action. If your situation or your child’s needs have significantly changed, you may be eligible to request a custody modification.
Common reasons for modifying custody include:
To request a modification, the requesting party must also show that the new arrangement would better serve the child’s best interests. These cases can be as complex as the original custody dispute, which is why representation from an experienced Austin child custody lawyer is essential to presenting a persuasive case.
When your relationship with your child is on the line, you deserve legal advice tailored to your situation and based on a sound understanding of the law. Legal counsel based on focused, strategic representation from a team that understands what mothers face in family court can help you navigate your case with favorable outcomes.
At WSM, we represent women exclusively, bringing compassion, preparation, and strength to every custody case we handle. Whether you’re navigating an initial custody arrangement or returning to court for a modification, we’re here to help you protect your rights and your child’s future. You’ll never be left in the dark about what your options are.
Call 380-212-3731 today to schedule your free consultation with a trusted Austin child custody attorney for women.
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