Boerne, TX Child Custody Lawyer

When dealing with the complexities of family law, finding the right child custody attorney is crucial for your child’s welfare. Child custody involves deciding which parent will make important life decisions for the child and where the child will reside.

At WSM, we recognize the emotional and legal hurdles of custody disputes. Our experienced Boerne child custody lawyer is committed to guiding you through the process and advocating for your family’s best interests. We offer free consultations to discuss your situation and explore the best options for your case. 

Don’t face this alone—contact us at 380-212-3731 to schedule your consultation and start working towards a brighter future for you and your child.

Understanding Child Custody in Boerne, TX

Types of Custody (Conservatorship) in Texas

1. Joint Managing Conservatorship (JMC)
   
   
   • Both parents share the rights and responsibilities of making major decisions for the child (such as education and healthcare).
   • One parent is usually designated as the primary caregiver with whom the child primarily resides.
   • The other parent is typically granted visitation (also called possession and access).
2. Sole Managing Conservatorship (SMC)
   
   
   • One parent is given the exclusive right to make major decisions regarding the child.
   • This is generally awarded in cases where one parent is deemed unfit due to factors such as neglect, abuse, or absence.

Visitation and Parenting Time

Texas has a Standard Possession Order (SPO), which provides a default schedule for visitation. However, parents can agree on a different schedule if it better suits their situation. The SPO typically includes:

• Weekends with the noncustodial parent.
• Extended time during holidays and summer.

Keeping up with visitation rights is key to the child’s well-being. Regular and steady contact with both parents gives children a sense of safety and consistency, which is important for their emotional and mental growth. Experienced attorneys can help you understand and manage these visitation cases, making sure your rights and your child’s best interests are looked after.

Whether you’re setting up visitation rights or changing existing ones, having a skilled attorney on your side can make a big difference. They can guide you through the legal steps, explain your options, and work towards a plan that benefits your family.

Factors Considered by Courts

When determining custody, courts focus on what is in the child’s best interests, considering:

• The child’s emotional and physical needs.
• Each parent’s ability to provide stability.
• The level of involvement each parent has in the child’s life.
• The child’s preferences (if they are 12 or older, their opinion may be considered).
• Any history of abuse, neglect, or other harmful behaviors.

Modifying Custody Orders

Custody arrangements can be modified if there is a significant change in circumstances, such as relocation, changes in the child’s needs, or concerns about the child’s well-being. A parent seeking a modification must show that the change is necessary for the child’s best interests.

If you need help with a custody case, it’s advisable to work with a family law professional familiar with Texas laws.

What Are My Legal Rights as a Mother?

As a mother in Texas, you have important legal rights regarding your child’s care and well-being. The Texas Family Code ensures that both mothers and fathers have equal rights in custody matters. These rights include making key decisions about your child’s education, healthcare, and overall welfare.

In custody cases, you can request joint or sole custody based on what you believe is best for your child. You also have the right to seek child support to help cover the expenses of raising your child, ensuring they have access to necessary resources and opportunities.

Additionally, you are entitled to visitation rights, allowing you to maintain a meaningful relationship with your child. If circumstances change, you can ask for adjustments to existing custody orders to better suit your child’s needs and your situation.

Understanding these legal rights can be complex, but having a knowledgeable attorney can be very helpful. They can guide you, advocate for you, and help you achieve a positive outcome for your child.

What Legal Steps Can I Take If I Feel Visitation Puts My Child at Risk?

If you think that visitation could harm your child’s safety or well-being, it’s important to take quick legal steps to protect them. Here’s what you can do:

1. Consult an Experienced Custody Attorney: Seek the guidance of a skilled attorney who can help you understand your rights and the legal options available to you. They can provide valuable advice and representation to ensure your child’s safety.
2. Gather Evidence: Collect any evidence that supports your concerns about the visitation arrangement, such as documentation of past incidents, police reports, or witness statements. This information will be essential in building your case.
3. File a Motion to Modify Visitation: If you have valid concerns, you can file a motion with the court to modify the existing visitation order. This legal process involves presenting your evidence and explaining why the current arrangement is not in your child’s best interests.
4. Request Supervised Visitation: In some cases, the court may grant supervised visitation, allowing the non-custodial parent to spend time with the child under the supervision of a neutral third party. This ensures the child’s safety while maintaining a relationship with both parents.
5. Seek a Temporary Restraining Order: If the situation is urgent and poses an immediate threat, you can request a temporary restraining order to prevent visitation until the court can review the case.
6. Attend Court Hearings: Be prepared to attend court hearings and present your case. Your attorney will help you navigate the legal process and advocate for your child’s best interests.

By taking these legal steps, you can make sure your child’s safety comes first. Working with a seasoned attorney will help you address your worries and find a solution that keeps your child safe and well.

Child Support and Financial Considerations

Child support plays a vital role in child custody arrangements. It’s a financial requirement set by the court to help cover the costs of raising a child, ensuring they get the support they need for their well-being. This includes costs for education, healthcare, and daily living needs.

In Texas, both mothers and fathers who have custody can receive child support. Child support orders must be properly assessed and enforced to provide children with the financial resources they need to thrive. A seasoned attorney can guide you through these financial matters, ensuring that child support is fair and meets your child’s needs.

Contact WSM for Experienced Custody Representation for Mothers

At WSM, we are dedicated to supporting women through the challenges of child custody cases. Our experienced family law attorneys provide personalized and caring legal assistance, ensuring your rights and interests are protected every step of the way. We understand the emotional and legal hurdles you face, and we aim to create a supportive environment where you feel empowered and informed.

Our unique approach combines legal guidance with connections to helpful community resources, allowing you to achieve the best possible outcomes for your family. Our team is known for its professionalism, dedication, and strong commitment to our clients’ well-being.

Choosing WSM means having a partner who will stand by you and work for your family’s best interests with care and understanding. Don’t face this journey alone—contact us today for a free consultation and let us help you secure a brighter future for you and your child. 

Call us at 380-212-3731 to get started.