Child Custody (Conservatorship) Overview
In Texas, the first priority in a child custody case is the best interest of the child.
In the absence of family violence, sexual abuse, or other extenuating circumstances, it is advisable for parents to agree to appropriate custody arrangements rather than have a court do it for them. A custody fight involves a great deal of time and emotional and financial expense. In some instances, the child can be damaged more by the court action than the worst trait of the other parent.
Obviously, there are going to be situations where a custody fight is the only option. Discuss your concerns and options with your attorney before making the decision to take this issue to trial.
Once a decision is made concerning conservatorship, provisions for periods of possession are generally determined by guidelines enacted by the Texas Legislature commonly called the "standard possession order”.
You need to review these guidelines for possible modifications to fit your family’s needs.
