Compassionately Protecting Your Kids’ Well-Being With Specialized Guidance
Whether you’re in the middle of a divorce, have just established paternity of your child, or your current custody arrangements are no longer meeting the needs of your family, we know how taxing it can be to face uncertainties when it comes to your precious time and relationship with your children.
At the Law Offices of Lisa G. Garza, we take our commitment to serving Texas families seriously, so you can trust our Dallas custody attorneys to give you the confidence you need to move forward.
Collectively, our compassionate team has over 40 years of experience, and our lead attorney, Lisa G. Garza is certified by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization in family law, which can make a significant difference in your case when it comes to navigating the complex Texas family court system.
You don’t have to face this alone – we’re in your corner! Call today to book your free consultation and learn more about your options and next steps.
Common Custody Issues We Help You Navigate
- Conservatorship – Conservatorship is the term for custody in Texas, and there are two types. The first is joint managing conservatorship (JMC), in which both parents share decision-making authority over the child’s upbringing, as well as possession (parenting time) of the child. The second type is sole managing conservatorship (SMC), in which one parent retains all the decision-making authority over the child’s upbringing, though both parents may still share “possession of” (time with) the child.
- Possession – Possession refers to each parent’s time with the child, or when they “possess” the child. Texas courts encourage custody arrangements that allow both parents to remain active in their child’s life, though the time they have with them may not always be equal (50/50).
Even in joint conservatorship arrangements, one parent may still be labeled as the “custodial” parent, while the other is the “non-custodial” parent. Our skilled Dallas custody attorneys will help you seek an arrangement which prioritizes your child’s best interests while protecting your parental right to maintain a meaningful relationship with them.
- Access – Access refers to a parent who, for whatever reason, does not have parenting time with the child, but is entitled to maintain contact with them through phone, texts, and video calls; as well as attend their extracurricular activities and access school, medical, and dental records.
- Custody Modifications – Custody modifications are an extremely complex process in Texas, but if your current arrangements are no longer supporting your child’s best interests, it may still be the best path forward for your family’s overall well-being. We understand that, as a parent, sometimes you have to take action or even make difficult decisions to protect and support your kids, and our Dallas custody attorneys will stand by your side each step of the way.
How Our Strategic Dallas Custody Attorneys Support You Through High-Conflict Disputes
When parents can’t agree on a custody arrangement, or if one parent is intent on creating conflict that drags the process out, a case can spiral out of control quickly. We know how important it is for you to safeguard your child from the fighting and negative effects.
It is still possible to seek an agreement outside of court (through alternative methods of dispute resolution like mediation or collaborative law), even if there is a fair amount of conflict to work through. However, in the event that the court must intervene, you can feel confident facing litigation with our assertive Dallas custody lawyers by your side.
Our collective 40 years of trial experience has allowed us to hone our skills for advocating for the rights and interests of our clients. We’re also exceptionally familiar with the local court system, so we know exactly what to do and when to do it, eliminating the guess-work for you.
Learn More About What It’s Like To Partner With An Trial-Tested Team. Contact Our Firm Today
Let us help your family move forward to a better future. We know what a difficult time this is, but our Dallas custody attorneys are here to help you find answers and make a plan, so you and your kids can come out stronger on the other side. Call today to book your free initial consultation and learn more about how we can help!
Frequently Asked Questions About Custody in Dallas, TX
How can I get sole custody of my child?
Sole custody is rare in Texas. However, it is a much more likely outcome if the other parent has a history of violence, abuse, or substance abuse issues which put the child’s safety or stability at risk. If this is true for your case, our Dallas custody attorneys will gather evidence and build a strong case on your behalf to fight for sole custody to protect your child’s well-being.
Do mothers automatically get primary custody?
No. The courts consider many factors when determining primary custody, such as each parent’s relationship with the child, the child’s wishes (depending on their age and maturity level), the stability of each parent’s home, and more when ruling on which custody arrangement is in the child’s best interests. The courts do not consider either parent’s gender or favor either parent more than the other.
How far away can I move with my child?
Most custody orders in Texas include a geographic restriction which requires the child’s to continue residing in the county where the original custody case was filed, or to a bordering county. However, If the custody order does not have a geographic restriction, the custodial parent generally has more freedom to move, but the non-custodial parent may contest a move if it significantly impacts visitation or co-parenting arrangements.