Divorce can be complicated, especially when children are involved. You may go into a divorce confident that you’ll get what you want when it comes to child custody, only to discover things may turn out a lot different than expected.

The best thing to do is to understand child custody agreements beforehand and recognize that some of the common presumptions you hold about custody and visitation run contrary to Texas law.

With the help of an experienced Texas child custody attorney, you can work towards attainable and positive outcomes in your child custody dispute. Please contact the Austin, TX Law Office of Ben Carrasco, PLLC, to schedule a consultation. You may also find it useful to review the answers to the most frequently asked questions about child custody.

What Does Texas Law Say About Child Custody?

The first thing to note about child custody laws is that in Texas, we don’t use the term “custody” in the Family Code. Instead, the Family Code refers to “conservatorship,” which relates to a parent’s rights and duties with respect to their child.

Generally, conservatorship includes the right to:

  • Make educational and medical decisions;
  • Possession, which relates to the visitation schedule a parent will have with his or her child;
  • Obtain information from the other parent about the child’s health, education, and welfare;
  • Access medical, dental, psychological, and school-related records regarding the child;
  • Discuss the child’s health and medical care with physicians, dentists, and other healthcare providers;
  • Discuss the child’s well-being, educational status, and extra-curricular activities with educators and school officials; and,
  • Consent to medical procedures or dental treatments, including surgery, in an emergency that presents an immediate danger to the child.

The primary consideration in a Texas child custody matter is establishing a conservatorship plan that is in the child’s best interests.

Which Factors Are Considered in the Child’s Best Interests Standard?

The Texas Family Code requires that a court determine various child custody issues in accordance with the best interests of the child. Still, the actual factors were designated by the Texas Supreme Court in the 1976 case of Holley v. Adams. Judges must consider, at a minimum:

  • The wishes of the child, if age appropriate;
  • The child’s emotional and physical needs, currently and in the future;
  • Any danger to the child, emotionally or physically;
  • The parental capabilities of the persons seeking custody of the child;
  • Whether any programs are available to assist the individuals seeking custody in promoting the best interests of the child;
  • The child-rearing plans the respective individuals seeking custody will follow;
  • The stability of the residential environment where the child will live;
  • Any acts or omissions of a parent that demonstrate that the current parent-child relationship is not proper;
  • Any excuses a parent has for engaging in these acts or omissions; and,
  • Other factors that may apply under the circumstances.

Note that many of these considerations depend on the age of the child, as the needs of an infant or toddler are quite different from an adolescent or teenager. Retaining an experienced child custody attorney who can present the necessary evidence to give you the edge in close cases is important.

Is Only One Parent Awarded Child Custody?

Generally, there are two types of conservatorship in Texas:

  1. Joint managing conservatorship; and,
  2. Sole managing conservatorship.

In most cases, both parents are appointed joint managing conservators of the child, which means that both parents will have the equal right to make decisions concerning their child.

However, one parent is usually appointed the primary custodial parent. This parent will have the exclusive right to designate the child’s primary residence and where the child spends most of their time. In other words, this is the parent with whom the child will primarily reside.

The non-custodial parent will have the same rights as the other parent (except the right to designate where the child lives) but will typically have visitation in accordance with the standard possession order (every first, third, and fifth weekend of the month and every Thursday from 6-8 pm). The non-custodial parent will also be the parent paying child support.

Why Would a Court Grant Sole Managing Conservatorship?

One parent may be awarded custody only if the arrangement serves the child’s best interests because this is the primary consideration in determining conservatorship.

However, a court may award sole custody or managing conservatorship if one parent does not want to take on the responsibilities; this does not impact his or her legal obligation to pay child support.

In addition, there are specific situations where a judge may grant sole managing conservatorship to one parent, such as where:

  • The other parent has a prior history of domestic violence or neglect;
  • The other parent has a history of drug use or abuse, or excessive alcohol usage
  • The other parent has a criminal record involving violent crimes or other offenses that make a joint managing conservatorship inappropriate;
  • The other parent has been absent or not involved in the child’s life or,
  • The parents have been involved in extreme conflicts regarding educational, medical and religious values regarding the child.

If a court does award sole managing conservatorship, that one parent has the legal right to make all decisions related to the child’s upbringing, including:

  • Determining where the child will live;
  • Consenting to all healthcare needs, including emergency surgery or treatment;
  • Allowing psychiatric and psychological care;
  • Being designated on the child’s records as the “in case of emergency” contact;
  • The right to attend school activities;
  • Enforcing child support obligations; and
  • Making decisions concerning the child’s education and participation in religious matters.

How is Conservatorship Different from Possession?

Just as conservatorship refers to the traditional notion of “custody,” possession is the term used to describe what is commonly known as “visitation.” The non-custodial parent does have rights related to possession of and access to the child unless the arrangement runs contrary to the child’s best interest or would endanger him or her.

As mentioned, there is a standard possession order, a visitation schedule. A judge weighs various guidelines and may depart from this as appropriate.

Can Parents Reach an Agreement on Conservatorship and Possession?

Yes, where joint managing conservatorship is appropriate, Texas law encourages parents to agree on the key issues of raising the child. Through compromise with the child’s other parent, you can establish the provisions for legal custody and possession of the child within a parenting plan.

Parents can also deviate from the standard possession order, so you have more flexibility in accounting for your schedule. So long as the agreed conservatorship and possession provisions are in accordance with the child’s best interest, the court will enter the parenting plan terms into the record.

Note that, in such a situation, the agreed parenting plan is a legally binding order. The terms related to the visitation and custody agreement may be enforced by either of the parents using all legal remedies available. This means you can take the child’s other parent to court to force him or her to comply, as contempt of court is one means of recourse.

In addition, it is possible that a judge will not find the agreed-upon parenting plan to be in the child’s best interests, even where the parents have reached a compromise. Still, you do have the opportunity to revise the plan without court involvement.

Are Mothers More Likely to Be Awarded Custody Over Fathers?

The Family Code prohibits courts from considering gender when determining conservatorship and visitation. Instead, family courts must make these determinations based on the “best interest” of the child. In general, however, mothers are still more likely to be awarded primary custody. This is because mothers still tend to be the child’s primary caretaker, a key consideration in evaluating a child’s best interest.

Can Child Custody Dispute Be Decided in Mediation?

Mediation is a great way to determine child custody arrangements if a couple feels they can compromise because it removes the risk of letting a judge decide for them. In mediation, a neutral mediator meets with both parties to help them create their agreement.

The advantage of mediation is that it gives parents control over the outcome of the litigation and allows them to reach a customized agreement that best reflects their goals and plans for the children. For example, “50-50” visitation arrangements are more likely to be achieved in mediation since judges typically do not order such schedules.

Will I Have to Go to Court for Child Custody?

Suppose you and the child’s other parent cannot agree upon a custody and visitation arrangement that the court finds suitable, and mediation is not fruitful. In that case, it will be necessary for the court to conduct a hearing on conservatorship and possession. The proceeding is similar to a courtroom trial, where each party in a custody suit can present evidence and witnesses supporting his or her position. You will be required to go to court to testify regarding various issues related to custody and visitation.

What Happens with Child Custody During Divorce Proceedings?

The period between filing for divorce and a final order for dissolution of marriage may last anywhere from a few weeks to several years. Fortunately, Texas law allows for temporary orders on conservatorship and possession for children during this period.

Once again, parents are encouraged to agree on a solution for custody and visitation, and mediation is available to facilitate compromise. However, either spouse can request a hearing on the temporary arrangement in a proceeding similar to a mini-trial.

Generally, a judge will order that the status quo remain in effect unless there is good reason to move the child from the residential environment. This would award temporary conservatorship and possession to the parent where the child stayed when the couple first separated.

If the Parents Are Not Married, Does the Father Have Child Custody Rights?

Yes. Without a court order, both parents have equal rights to the child. However, this creates significant risks for the parents if the relationship goes awry and they no longer live together. Without a court order, either parent can deny possession to the other parent or move with the child. You should contact an attorney to establish a court order to protect your rights.

If I Want Custody, Can I Still Move Out During the Divorce?

Regardless of the child’s wishes, leaving the children behind would be unwise, even if you can’t stand to be in the same house as the person you’re divorcing. Moving out limits your chances of obtaining primary custody of the children later.  It also suggests you are okay with letting the other parent have physical custody.

If you must leave, you should take the children with you and file for temporary orders as soon as possible. Family law judges look unfavorably on a parent who removes the children from the home without seeking recognition from the family court.

Can I Move in With My Boyfriend/Girlfriend Before a Child Custody Arrangement Is Finalized?

It’s smarter to wait. While moving in with your boyfriend or girlfriend won’t completely ruin your chances of getting custody of a child, state courts will be looking at your child’s best interest. Your boyfriend or girlfriend, as well as your living arrangements, will be under scrutiny.

When Will a Court Modify a Child Custody Order?

There are certain situations where a parent can request to modify a permanent or temporary child custody order and possession of a child, and some of the same factors apply as with the original proceedings to determine custody and visitation: Parents can come to an agreement or go through mediation and request the court to enter a modified order. A judge will likely do so if the new arrangement properly accounts for the child’s best interests.

In addition, there must be a showing that circumstances related to the child or the parent have materially, substantially changed since the entry of the original order. Alternatively, a court may modify conservatorship and possession where:

  • The child is at least 12 years old and has informed the court, in chambers, that he or she wants a change; or,
  • The parent holding conservatorship voluntarily gives over the rights and obligations to another person for at least six months, not counting the time the party engaged in active military duty.

What Do I Do if I Need to Move?

The general rules regarding child custody and visitation modification do not apply to situations where modification is sought because a parent wants to relocate. A custodial parent must get a court order to move the child and can only do so where:

  • Relocating is necessary for new employment;
  • A move will improve the child’s educational opportunities; or
  • Relocation is necessary to be closer to extended family and will benefit the child.

Can We Change the Agreements of Child Support Ourselves?

No. Child support orders can only be modified by the court. The court will consider a change to a child support agreement if there has been a substantial change in the circumstances of the child or parent affected by the order. The parent subject to the child support order can request a review every three years.

What Child Visitation Rights Do Grandparents Have?

Basically, none. A grandparent who seeks possession of or access to the child must overcome the legal presumption that a parent is acting in the child’s best interests by denying visitation. This legal presumption is difficult to overcome because it requires proof that such a denial would negatively impact the child’s physical health or emotional well-being.

Can I Change My Child’s Last Name After the Divorce?

If the child has the father’s last name, the mother may wish to change it to her last name after a full divorce decree. This choice is governed by the “best interest of the child” standard. Courts will consider how the name change

  • would affect the child,
  • how it would change the relationship with each parent,
  • how it would affect the child’s identification in the family unit,
  • how long the child has used the original name,
  • the child’s preference,
  • could be inconvenient,
  • if the child might face embarrassment,
  • and other factors.

Can the Courts Consider the Race of the Parents in Child Custody Disputes?

The U.S. Supreme Court ruled that a court cannot consider race when a noncustodial parent petitions for a change of custody. Societal stigma related to race cannot be the basis for a custody decision.

Do I Need an Austin Child Custody Attorney to Represent Me?

While you are not legally required to retain counsel, you are in a better position to get a positive outcome if you have an attorney to assist you in a child conservatorship and possession case. A lawyer has in-depth knowledge of the laws and procedural rules that apply in your case and can represent your interests in court.

Be sure to start your child custody process with an experienced and well-qualified child custody lawyer. Ben Carrasco is a family law attorney in Austin, TX, who is experienced and knowledgeable in all areas of child custody. Ben is also a skilled negotiator and can help you effectively navigate the mediation and court child custody process.

Need a Great Child Custody Attorney?

Ben Carrasco is an experienced, dedicated family lawyer who will fight to win your child custody case. Call Ben today at (512) 866-1131 or request a consultation online!

About the Author
Ben Carrasco is a highly skilled family law attorney based in Austin, Texas, known for his extensive expertise in family law and business litigation. While his primary focus is family law, Ben brings a wealth of experience in litigating diverse business disputes, ranging from breach of contract and collections to business torts, fraud, and real estate matters. In his family law practice, Ben navigates all aspects of the field, including divorce, child custody, support, property division, and more, offering clients expert guidance throughout the litigation process. His legal journey began in complex commercial litigation, initially with a global law firm and later with a prominent Austin-based firm. However, driven by a desire to make a direct impact on people's lives and embrace the human element of the law, Ben transitioned to family law, a decision that has proven to be deeply rewarding. A proud Austin native with roots in California, Ben completed his undergraduate studies at the University of California, Berkeley, before earning his law degree at Stanford Law School, where he excelled in legal writing and served as an associate editor of the Stanford Law and Policy Review.