Austin, Texas, Child Custody Lawyers
When parents divorce or split up, they usually need a formal arrangement establishing where their children will live and when the other parent can spend time with the children. When a divorcing couple cannot agree on these issues, the children frequently suffer.
At Ritchey and Marbut, L.L.P., we help parents work through matters of child custody and visitation, outlining their options, and presenting them with the pros and cons of each option. In everything we do in child custody matters, we are especially concerned about the best interests of the children. For information on how we can help resolve a custody dispute, contact our Austin law firm to schedule a consultation.
Conservatorship / Custody
A conservatorship or 'custody' order records the responsibilities of each parent, and identifies the person responsible for different types of decisions, including where the child will live, and what the visitation schedule will be. Joint managing conservatorship (or joint custody) is the most common determination. A joint managing conservatorship does not mean that the child lives equally with both parents, although that is an option. Rather, it refers solely to decision-making.
In cases involving claims of abuse or neglect, or when one parent is determined to be incapable of participating in decision-making regarding the children, the court can order that one parent be named the sole managing conservator (sole custody) of the child.
Visitation / Possession
Texas has a Standard Possession Order that is presumed to be in the best interest of the child. The Standard Possession Order often applies when parents cannot agree about scheduled visitation, but not always. If there are issues of violence, abuse or neglect, visitation might be governed by an order of supervised visitation. We work with clients to help them determine what would work best for them and for their children. We also handle cases involving grandparents' visitation rights.
We Look at the Long Term Picture
At Ritchey & Marbut, we help parents work through legal custody issues. We have handled allegations of physical or mental abuse, both real and false. We feel an obligation to look at the situation of the family as a whole, keeping the best interests of the child foremost, and to keep our clients informed of the realities of their case. Whenever possible, we try to avoid prolonged custody battles.
For a child custody attorney who helps clients see the big picture, contact our offices in Austin, Texas. Call 512-499-8061 to schedule a consultation.
