Finding agreements in Texas child custody cases

Child custody disputes have long been a difficult issue for couples to resolve. In some situations, the parents may try mediation to find an agreement. The parties will work together with an independent third party to discuss their concerns. This process allows each side to feel like they have some control over the process. The parties can consult with their own attorneys during the process as well, so that they understand all of the details about these arrangements.

When there is a child custody dispute that is unable to be resolved by the parties, either in mediation or in other negotiations, the court will consider several factors before making its decision. These factors used to determine the best interests of the child include an analysis of the home environment each parent could provide, the parental ability of each of the parents and the wishes of the child, if over a certain age.

Each party will have the opportunity to present evidence that demonstrates why that person should be the one entitled to determine the primary residence of the child (“custody”). Often, this can be a very difficult issue for the parties to discuss without letting their emotions take control, even when in the courtroom.

Once the court issues its decision, the parties will have to follow the order. This means they may end up with a custody determination that neither side likes, and it might take some time for the parties to find a way to make it work for everyone, or get used to it.

If the parents can learn to communicate with one another early on in the proceedings, they may end up creating a custody and parenting time plan that stands a much better chance of working out in the long run. They will have more say in this kind of an agreement, and may be better able to address any issues that develop.

While the end of a relationship is a very troubling time, you do need to protect yourself from making poor decisions. You should speak to an experienced family law attorney to learn more about the options that are available, so that you will be able to maximize the time you spend together with your child.

These agreements require significant changes before they can be modified, so it is important that you are certain you understand exactly what will happen prior to making any decisions. You want to make sure that you can keep an active role in your child’s life.