Child Custody

What You Need to Know About Child Custody in Texas

In Texas, child custody orders begin with a standard possession order (SPO), which generally establishes a primary and non-primary parent. According to Texas Family Code, an SPO is the minimum amount of possession a parent will have with the child, unless there is evidence that proves it is not in the best interest? of the child.

Deconstructing Child Custody

Child custody can best be described as a three-legged stool.

Below is a list of those three key points, which it must have:

  1. Parenting rights and duties: Although this is a vast category, the focus tends to be on the big three – where the child will live, go to school, and obtain healthcare. However, it also includes other, more obscure decisions. For example, if your child wants to get married before reaching the age of majority, which parent will decide if this should be permitted? The right to make these decisions can be granted to one or both parents, or require the full agreement of both parents.
  1. Time: There are 365 days in a year, and, throughout that year, there are many holidays, birthdays, and other special occasions. The SPO and the Expanded SPO are templates to use. You and your co-parent will have to go through the process of carving this time up if an SPO does not work. Work with your attorney to assess if you can achieve an arrangement that works best. Long standing family traditions can be segregated to maximize continuity for children when parents agree.
  1. Support: Lastly, child support must also be determined, including who will pay, how much will be paid when it will be paid, and to whom the support will be paid. Typically, the non-primary parent will pay support to the primary parent.

Schedule a Consultation with a Knowledgeable Child Custody Attorney Today!

For some, child custody can become a heated and contentious matter. At Myres & Associates PLLC, our family law team will work with you to ensure you reach a resolution that is best for you, your family, and, most importantly, your children.

Reach out to our law office today at (713) 322-9810 to schedule a consultation.

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