While the common perception is that mothers in Texas and around the country are far more likely to be awarded primary physical custody of their young children by a family law judge, this has been changing in recent years. Most courts now believe that having equal access to both parents is in a child's best interests after the divorce has been finalized. However, it may come as a surprise that many courts still grant at least partial custody to fathers who have been accused of domestic violence or child abuse.
Helping children adjust to a new relationship after divorce
In a Texas divorce, it's easy for the spouses to get caught up in their own issues. Children can often recede into the background of a case even as custody and support are in dispute. However, the child's needs should always be at the forefront.
Effective coparenting after divorce
One of the most difficult aspects of divorce for parents in Houston is co-parenting with an ex-spouse. A healthy co-parenting arrangement can help children adjust. While communication is an important element of functional co-parenting, this does not mean parents must carry on in-person conversations if it is difficult for them. They may want to use text, email or even online tools specifically designed to facilitate conversations about custody. Parents should never use their children as messengers.
What to know about virtual visitation
Ideally, Texas divorced parents would be able to spend time with their children on a regular basis. However, some parents live too far from their children to make regular visitation worth pursuing. Those who aren't able to physically visit with their children may be entitled to virtual visitation sessions. Virtual visitation may involve exchanging emails, text messages or videos on a regular basis.
How a calendar can be useful during a divorce
When parents in Houston gather financial documents in preparation for a divorce, they should not forget calendars. These can be valuable resources in figuring out dates, parenting time, expenses and more. Calendars can also serve as evidence in the event of a dispute. One part of the divorce process for parents usually involves having to provide detailed information about children's activities and health.
How the Hague Convention applies to international child abduction
Texas residents have witnessed the world becoming an increasingly smaller place. It's more accessible, which has led to many marriages between individuals who originate in different countries. This has led to some complex child custody disputes. Many have questions about what laws apply when a parent takes a child from one nation to another without the consent of their spouse.
Steps that divorced parents can take to improve communication
Texas residents who have dealt with child custody realize that it is not easy to keep a peaceful relationship with an ex-spouse after a divorce. However, many accept the fact that they have to try to maintain a semblance of peace so that their interaction with their ex-spouse does not negatively impact the mental and emotional health of their children.
What to know about temporary child custody
Some Texas parents may experience a situation in which they can't look after their children. For instance, they might be going through a separation or find themselves unable to provide for their sons or daughters financially. Parents who are in the hospital or are otherwise too ill to care for their kids often ask friends or family members to watch them temporarily.
Child visitation cannot be denied for these reasons
Bitterness, hostility and pain can lead Texas couples to getting divorced. After the divorce, it may be tempting for a custodial parent to try to use their child as leverage in order to get back at an ex-spouse who has caused them to suffer. This is not in the best interests of the children and is illegal.
When an ex files for custody
When parents in Texas divorce or separate, both parties are usually concerned about their children's welfare. While many couples are able to negotiate custody issues before one spouse or partner moves out, this doesn't always happen. In addition, some parents become unhappy about existing custody arrangements months or even years after an initial split.
