Austin Family Attorneys

Issues in Child Custody

One of the most painful parts of the divorce process for many couples is determining child custody. It can be a difficult decision that causes a great deal of stress to both parents and children. In such a difficult and stressful time, people sometimes forget that the purpose of child custody decisions is to place children with the parent that is going to provide the best care and support. Parents' opinions as to who this should be differ on occasion. Your Austin child custody lawyer will be able to help you understand the process of child custody and aid in the settling of any disputes.

In most family situations, the majority of parenting decisions and parenting input comes from one parent not two. Whether this is the child's mother or father is irrelevant. Both parents are likely to be able to agree who has provided the majority of parental support. Your Austin child custody attorney will be able to help you through the process of determining who that parent is.

There are significant obstacles to some parents exercising their parental duties. A parent that is required to take frequent business trips or work irregular hours is less likely to be awarded primary custody. The goal of child custody decisions in Texas is to place the child in the home that is best for them. A parent that works regular hours and that spends most of their time at home is clearly a better choice.

If your child or children are over twelve, their opinion counts, too. An interview of your child will allow their opinions to be known. They are of an age where they are able to express themselves lucidly. This can have a significant impact on the outcome of a child custody decision. Note that children under the age of twelve will not be consulted. If you have any questions related to this aspect of the process, then your Austin child custody lawyer will be able to clarify them for you.

Abuse, neglect, drug use, and inappropriate behavior can all have a decisive impact. The goal as stated before is to place a child with the parent that can provide the greatest support. It is highly unlikely that a child would be given to a parent that is proven abusive or neglectful. If a parent is found to be a regular drug user, it is unlikely that they will be awarded custody. These factors can also have an impact on visitation rights.

In most situations, child custody lawyers will try to resolve the issue amicably. Custody disputes can be extremely stressful for children. Difficult divorces have been shown to lead to negative behavior and can affect academic performance adversely. Your Austin child custody lawyer should be able to help you through custody decisions as painlessly as possible.

Regardless of the outcome of your child custody case, parents are entitled to visitation. The non-custodial parent's visitation rights are clearly defined in Texas law. The Austin child custody lawyers at www.slaterkennon.com will be able to provide you with sound legal advice regarding your particular situation.


Centrally located in the Arboretum area of north Austin, the Slater & Kennon law firm represents clients in Travis County, Bastrop County, Burnet County, Williamson County, and Hays County, including the cities of Austin, San Marcos, Bastrop, Burnet, and Georgetown.