Texas Child Custody and Visitation: What You Need to Know
Navigating child custody and visitation in Texas can be a complex and emotionally charged process, particularly during times of divorce or separation. In Texas, the legal terms for child custody and visitation are “conservatorship” and “possession and access,” respectively. The guiding principle in these matters is always the best interests of the child. Texas courts evaluate various factors, such as the child’s unique needs, the level of parental involvement, and each parent's capability to care for and support the child. Generally, Texas encourages joint conservatorship, which allows both parents to remain actively involved in their child's life unless there are specific concerns that warrant otherwise. Types of Conservatorship in Texas Texas recognizes two primary forms of conservatorship: Joint Managing Conservatorship (JMC): In this arrangement, both parents share decision-making responsibilities regarding their child's upbringing. While one parent may serve as the pri...