The state recognizes common-law marriage, legally referred to as an informal marriage. However, an informal marriage does not arise simply because a couple has lived together for a certain number of months or years. To establish an informal marriage without filing a declaration, the law generally requires proof that the parties agreed to be married, […]

Quick Summary If you are dealing with a high-conflict custody situation in Texas, you are not without options. Texas courts have specific legal tools, from parenting coordinators to custody modifications, that address situations where one parent refuses to cooperate, follow court orders, or support the child’s relationship with the other parent. When one parent refuses […]

Quick Summary A parent can lose custody without knowing it. In Texas it is a real concern when repeated conduct affects how courts evaluate parenting arrangements. Texas judges review patterns involving missed parenting time, unsafe parenting decisions, and court-order violations, and interference with the other parent’s rights. Even conduct that appears minor in isolation may […]

Quick Summary Understanding which evidence wins custody cases in Texas courts starts with recognizing that not all proof carries equal weight. Texas judges generally rely most heavily on objective, credible evidence tied directly to the child’s best interests. Neutral records and documented parenting patterns often matter far more than accusations, speculation, or personal grievances. Parents […]

Texas courts decide custody using the best interest of the child standard in Texas custody cases. When your case is reviewed, judges evaluate stability, caregiving involvement, parental abilities, and your child’s needs. Understanding these factors helps you see how courts determine conservatorship and parenting arrangements during custody proceedings. When you face a custody dispute, Texas […]

Domestic violence custody Texas cases are evaluated based on safety, evidence, and the child’s best interest. You can expect the court to review documentation, testimony, and behavior patterns to assess risk. A finding of family violence can limit conservatorship rights, affect visitation, and shape long-term parenting arrangements. When family violence allegations enter a custody dispute, […]

Emergency custody in Texas allows you to request immediate court action when a child faces serious risk. Clear evidence is required, and the court reviews the situation quickly before deciding whether temporary custody protections should remain in place. When a child faces immediate risk, Texas courts can issue emergency custody orders to provide short-term protection. […]

A parenting plan in Texas shows how you and the other parent share time, decisions, and routines. Courts expect clear terms, a workable calendar, and a possession schedule Texas custody judges can follow so the order fits your child’s needs and can be enforced. When you are trying to sort out custody, one of the […]

Texas courts decide custody using the best interest of the child standard in Texas custody cases. When your case is reviewed, judges evaluate stability, caregiving involvement, parental abilities, and your child’s needs. Understanding these factors helps you see how courts determine conservatorship and parenting arrangements during custody proceedings. When you face a custody dispute, Texas […]

When your current custody order no longer reflects your child’s needs or your situation, you may need to take steps to modify custody order Texas arrangements through a formal court process. However, courts require specific legal standards to be met before any change is considered. To modify a custody order in Texas, you must meet […]