One of the worst threats your ex-partner can issue in the heat of anger is, "I'll take the kids and you'll never see them again!"
Custody issues during the COVID-19 outbreak clarified by court
Many Texas officials first became aware of the seriousness of the outbreak right around the time that kids were due to go on spring break from school. Now, it's uncertain when schools will return to normal. That's left some parents unsure how to interpret their visitation schedules.
Changing or appealing a child custody order
Parents in Texas may find themselves in sharp disagreement with the decision of a family court, especially after a child custody hearing. This problem may be more common in contentious cases where parents are unable to reach an agreement or when abuse allegations are involved. After an unfavorable decision, a parent may wonder if they have the ability to appeal a child custody decision. As with other types of court orders, a child custody case can be appealed; however, only a final order can be brought up on appeal rather than a temporary or interim custody decision.
Domestic abuse and physical custody awards
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.
