Child Custody

At Chacon, Campbell & Alexander, PLLC, we recognize that your children mean everything to you. Child custody issues can be deeply distressing. The outcome will drastically impact your children’s well-being and your cherished relationship with them.

Our child custody lawyers in San Antonio are dedicated to guiding you through these sensitive family transitions with the utmost compassion and respect for your role as a parent. With over 60 years of collective experience, our custody attorneys will work together on your case. You can benefit from their comprehensive knowledge of family law in Texas and their compassionate understanding of what you’re going through.

Texas law uses unique terms when it comes to child custody, which can be confusing. These terms include:

• Sole managing conservatorship, which refers to sole custody regarding legal authority over the children
• Joint managing conservatorship, which refers to joint custody regarding decision-making authority
• Possession and access, which refers to visitation

We’ll explain in more detail what these terms mean and how they apply to your situation. We can help you understand the different types of custody arrangements and which may be most beneficial for your situation. Additionally, you can turn to us for guidance on establishing a parenting time schedule, with all relevant details taken into account.

Factors That Influence Custody Decisions

The court’s primary concern is the best interest of the child. Factors influencing custody decisions may include:

• Each parent’s involvement in the child’s life
• The child’s own wishes (depending on age)
• Stability of the home environment
• Any history of family violence or substance abuse

You can lean on us for more guidance on these factors and how they apply to your unique situation.

The Valuable Role Of A Lawyer In Custody Disputes

Having a skilled lawyer by your side is crucial in any custody case, whether involving divorce, separation or paternity proceedings. We will advocate for your parental rights while focusing on creating a positive outcome for your children. Our approach is tailored to your family’s needs, whether negotiating a fair agreement, guiding you through mediation or representing you in court.

Answers To Common Questions About Child Custody Issues

Do you have questions about child custody? We hope we can answer any of your questions below:

What factors do courts consider when determining child custody?

Typically, the main factor courts consider when determining child custody is a child’s best interests. A child’s best interests can include things like a parent’s ability to provide food, shelter, clothing and education, a child’s need for a stable home environment, or religious and cultural considerations. Parents can negotiate what is best for their children in court. If a parent cannot provide for their child’s needs, they may not receive custody of their child.

How can I modify an existing child custody arrangement?

A child custody arrangement may not always work. Parents may have trouble meeting the terms of an arrangement, or changes may be made to meet a child’s evolving needs. If parents wish to alter a child custody arrangement, they will need to file a petition seeking child custody modifications. Our attorneys can help parents seek modifications to child custody arrangements.

What is the difference between legal custody and physical custody?

Legal custody is a parent’s right to decide how their child should be raised. Decisions can include things like the child’s education, medical needs or religious instruction, for example.

Physical custody is where a child lives. A parent with physical custody is responsible for providing for their child’s basic needs and helping to ensure their daily routine is met. Physical custody can rotate according to a custody arrangement.

How can I prepare for a child custody hearing?

Before a child custody hearing, it is often important to gather evidence supporting a child custody arrangement. Our attorneys can help you gather the necessary documentation and develop an argument well in advance of a hearing.

What can I do if the other parent is not complying with the custody agreement?

If a parent is not following a child custody agreement, you may need to file a motion for contempt. A judge may enforce the terms of an agreement or punish a parent for not complying with an order’s terms.

Empowering You To Step Into Your Next Chapter As A Parent

Your children’s happiness and future are too important to leave to chance. You deserve the guidance and advocacy you need to make critical decisions that will help ensure a positive future for your children.

We invite you to contact our custody and visitation attorneys by phone at (210) 560-2260 or via email. We can discuss how we can help you pursue your goals as a parent and build a joyful and stable future for your children.