Longview Child Custody LawyerChild custody and visitation are the most difficult issues in divorce and family law. It is the position of the Texas family courts that it is in the best interests of a child to maintain strong relationships with both parents. When one home is replaced by two, or a child's parents are not married, the court issues a custody and visitation order to protect those relationships. At the Law Office of Bradley T. Steele, P.C. in Longview, attorney Brad Steele and our staff work relentlessly to protect our clients' parental rights and the welfare of their children. Issues involved include: Sole and joint custody: The preference in Texas is for parents to share custody. The typical arrangement involves joint legal custody, with parents having equal say in major decisions such as education, while one parent is the primary conservator and the other parent has visitation/parenting time. The court will only grant sole custody if it can be shown that it is not in the best interests of the child. Cases where the court may agree to sole custody requests usually involve drug abuse or some other obvious problem. Ask the child: Although all custody decisions are finally made by the court, at age twelve a child has a right to express an opinion. Modification of custody: If it can be shown that there has been a significant change in circumstances, including developmental changes, work schedules or the failure of a parent to provide an appropriate home, the court will consider a petition for modification of a custody order. Parental relocation: If the primary conservator chooses to move out of state, the court will consider all factors, including stability in the child's life. It is common for the parent who is relocating to be expected to assume the additional expense for visitation. Related information: Consultation with attorney Brad SteeleIf you are dealing with a custody issue, it is important to feel comfortable with your lawyer and to understand your options. We invite you to contact our Longview law office to arrange a consultation and case review. Mr. Steele will give you the information you need to make a well-informed decision. Our firm serves clients throughout East Texas. |
