At Ramos Law Group, PLLC, we offer Texas’s personalized child custody and family law services. Our dedicated family custody lawyers in Galveston County are committed to advocating for parents’ rights while ensuring the children’s best interests. If you’re navigating a child custody case in Galveston, we are here to offer exceptional legal support and guidance. Contact us for a confidential, no-obligation initial consultation.
Navigating Child Custody Laws in Galveston, Texas
Texas refers to custody as “conservatorship,” which refers to each parent’s legal rights and responsibilities. Understanding child custody laws and how they apply in Galveston County is crucial for parents involved in custody disputes. Texas generally favors joint managing conservatorship (JMC) and encourages both parents to share decision-making and parenting responsibilities. However, sole managing conservatorship (SMC) may be granted in cases where it’s in the child’s best interests.
Determining the Best Interests of the Child
The core principle guiding custody decisions in Texas is what’s in the child’s best interests. To make that determination, courts consider various factors, including the following:
- The child’s physical, emotional, and psychological needs and development;
- Each parent’s ability to act in the child’s best interests;
- The capacity of each parent to foster a positive relationship with the other parent;
- The extent of each parent’s involvement in the child’s life thus far;
- The geographical proximity of the parents’ residences;
- The child’s express wishes, particularly if they are twelve years of age or older; and
- Any other factor deemed relevant by the court.
If you’re a parent involved in a custody dispute in Galveston, building a case to prove you are acting in your child’s best interests is crucial. Our Galveston custody lawyers are here to answer any questions you may have.
Skilled Legal Representation Tailored to Your Needs
Regarding a custody dispute, you want a lawyer who understands your family’s distinct needs. Our custody lawyers in Galveston are well-equipped to handle a variety of custody-related situations, including:
- Comprehensive case assessments, providing clear explanations and answers to all your questions;
- In-depth investigations to gather essential evidence and information;
- Skilled negotiation with co-parents to reach agreeable custody and visitation arrangements; and
- Determined advocacy to protect your parental rights and your children’s interests.
Whatever your situation, Ramos Law Group, PLLC is here to help. We know the emotional toll that custody battles can put on parents, so we’ve dedicated our practice to helping parents with these types of family law matters.
We Strive for Amicable Custody and Visitation Solutions
Our legal team always strives to find amicable solutions that preserve family relationships and promote cooperative parenting. We aim to achieve peaceful resolutions that minimize the impact on all parties involved, particularly the children.
While prioritizing finding collaborative solutions, we recognize that not all custody cases can be resolved amicably. Our attorneys are prepared to represent you in court and argue your case before a family court judge if necessary.
FAQs About Texas Child Custody
Understandably, prospective clients have numerous questions when going through a custody dispute. To help you prepare for your initial meeting with our child custody lawyers in Galveston, here are answers to some of the most common questions we receive.
How does the court determine what is in the child’s best interests?
The court considers various factors to determine what arrangement best serves the child’s health, safety, and welfare. These factors include the child’s age and physical and emotional needs, each parent’s ability to care for the child, the stability of each parent’s home environment, any history of family violence or substance abuse, and, in some cases, the child’s wishes.
Can a child choose which parent to live with in Texas?
In Texas, a child aged 12 or older can share their preference about which parent they would like to live with. However, this preference is not the sole determinant in a custody decision.
What happens if one parent wants to move away with the child?
Relocation can be complex. Suppose a parent wishes to move with the child, especially if the move would significantly impact the other parent’s ability to see the child. In that case, the court will review the situation to determine if the move is in the child’s best interest. There is a presumption that children should have frequent and continuous contact with both parents, which can be difficult to rebut to allow for a relocation.
How can a parent modify a child custody order in Texas?
A parent can request a modification to the child custody order if there has been a material and substantial change in circumstances since the last order was issued. Substantial changes include changes in employment, relocation, the child’s needs, or other significant life events.
Contact Our Family Custody Lawyers in Galveston County
Whether dealing with high-conflict scenarios, complex family dynamics, or a substantial change in circumstances, Ramos Law Group, PLLC, brings a wealth of experience and local insight to manage your case effectively. Attorney Mary E. Ramos is Board Certified in Family Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization, and she’s passionate about helping others through child custody cases.
Contact us to schedule a consultation and learn more about how we can help with all your Galveston family law needs.
