Our Denton County Child Custody Lawyer

Types of Custody in Texas

Texas’ legal terminology concerning custody differs slightly from that of other states. In TX, it is known as “conservatorship,” and we refer to parents as “custodians.”

With child custody laws in Denton County, Texas, there are two types of conservatorships:

• Joint managing conservatorship (i.e., JMC)
• Sole managing conservatorship (i.e., SMC)

Be that as it may, these terms refer only to a custodian’s authority to participate in decisions affecting the child’s health, education, religious upbringing, and general welfare. An order calling for a JMC or SMC does not comment on where the children will reside, commonly called physical custody.

Courts in TX decide physical guardianship and visitation (sometimes called “parenting time”) in a separate “possession order” (i.e., PO). Your PO lays out the schedule for “possession,” referring to when a parent provides a residence for the children, and “access,” which covers the parenting schedule for a noncustodial parent.

Denton County courts favor JMCs when parents are responsible and engaged in their children’s welfare. Courts can fashion POs to meet the specific needs of the parents and children or approve specially tailored POs the parents can agree upon.

If both Texas parents happen to be deceased, unfit, or not present, then a judge in Denton County may award third-party conservatorship to:

• An individual that has been caring for the child for the past six months
• The closest living relative

If you feel you should be awarded third-party conservatorship, you may have to file a lawsuit. This is where we come in. Call our child custody lawyers serving Denton County, Texas today! 

Custody Factors Texas Family Court Considers

When navigating child custody issues, the guiding principle for a family law court in Denton County, TX, is the child's best interest.

The court in Denton County considers several factors in this endeavor, which include:

• The parent can agree, communicate and cooperate in custody matters relating to the child.
• The parent's willingness to accept custody and any history of unwillingness to allow parenting time are not based on substantiated abuse.
• The interaction and relationship of the child with parents and siblings.
• The history of domestic violence, if any.
• The children's safety and the protection of either parent from physical abuse by the other parent.
• The children's preference is when they are of sufficient age and capacity to reason to form an intelligent decision.
• The needs of the children.
• The stability of the home environment is offered.
• The quality and continuity of the children's education.
• The fitness of the parents.
• The geographical proximity of the parent's homes.
• The extent and quality of the time spent with the child before or after the separation.
• The parent's employment responsibilities.
• The age and number of the children.

What Rights Does a Father Have in Denton County, TX?

In regards to child custody in Denton County, TX, a father has just as many rights as the mother as long as the following conditions are met:

• Paternity has been established - The father can do this in several ways, the easiest being that you are married to the mother of the child and presumed to be the father once the child is born.
• You are "fit" to parent - While this also applies to the mother, being ruled unfit by a judge in TX can severely impact your custody and visitation rights. In addition, false allegations against you can bear heavy consequences for whoever made a claim.

If you are unmarried and have yet to establish paternity, then you will not be able to make critical decisions for your child, such as where they will go to school, what healthcare options they will have, etc. Safeguard your rights by retaining our family law services today.

Why Choose Our Denton County Child Custody Lawyers?

• Extensive experience: Our attorneys have years of experience handling child custody cases in Flower Mound, Highland Village, Argyle, and throughout Denton County. We have a proven track record of success in advocating for our clients and achieving favorable results.
• Compassionate guidance: We understand that child custody disputes can be emotionally challenging. Our lawyers provide compassionate and understanding guidance throughout the entire legal process, ensuring that you feel supported and informed every step of the way.
• Customized strategies: Every child custody case is unique, and we believe in tailoring our legal strategies to meet the specific needs and goals of our clients. We will work closely with you to develop a personalized approach that best suits your situation.
• Strong advocacy: Our child custody lawyers are skilled negotiators and litigators. We will tirelessly advocate for your rights and interests, whether through negotiation, mediation, or representation in court. Our goal is to achieve a favorable resolution that prioritizes the well-being of your child.
• Transparent communication: We believe in open and transparent communication with our clients. Our lawyers will keep you informed about the progress of your case, answer any questions you may have, and provide honest and realistic assessments of your options.

When it comes to child custody matters, don't leave the outcome to chance. Contact our experienced Denton County child custody lawyers at Burrows Law Group today to schedule a consultation and get the dedicated legal assistance you need.

Protect Your Child's Best Interests with Experienced Child Custody Lawyers

When it comes to child custody disputes, it's crucial to have a skilled and knowledgeable attorney by your side to ensure that your child's best interests are protected. At Burrows Law Group, our experienced child custody lawyers have a deep understanding of the complexities of family law and will fight tirelessly to achieve the best possible outcome for you and your child.

Our child custody lawyers work diligently to achieve your goals for custody so you can maintain a loving relationship with your children. However, suppose you need legal counsel for a conservatorship dispute during or after divorce. In that case, we encourage you to contact a certified family law attorney at Burrows Law Group serving Denton County, TX.

Our Family Lawyers Are Prepared to Help With Dedicated and Highly Personal Legal Services. Request Your Consultation By Calling (972) 236-7798 or Completing Our Online Form Today. 

Helpful Resources

• Official website of Denton County government
• Texas Courts official website
• Nolo's article on child custody in Texas