Austin Child Custody Lawyer

Experienced Representation in Travis County

Are you involved in a custody dispute or worried about how your impending divorce will impact your family? The Law Firm of T. Wade Jefferies provides highly skilled and effective legal representation to help clients resolve custody and as many other family law issues. I work with you to find the solutions that work best for you and your family.

What Are the Custody Laws in Texas?

In Texas, child custody is known as conservatorship. The conservator, or parent, has the rights to make medical, educational, legal, and other important decisions for the child. Depending on the situation, this may mean awarding primary physical custody and assign the important decision-making authority to both parents, or just one parent. Texas courts make decisions regarding custody and visitation based on the best interests of the child. 

Generally, the courts will favor maintaining the child’s relationship with both parents, such as in a joint legal custody arrangement. However, this does not necessarily mean a 50/50 split of time with each parent, nor does it mean that each parent will always share each decision-making right - other scenarios often apply.

Are you facing a custody dispute in Texas? Call The Law Firm of T. Wade Jefferies today at (512) 379-6274 or contact us online to schedule a meeting with our Austin custody attorney! 

What Factors Are Considered in a Child Custody Case?

When determining custody arrangements, the court may consider:

  • The physical and emotional needs of the child
  • The ability of each parent to raise the child
  • The stability of the parents’ respective homes
  • Future plans each parent has for the child
  • The potential for neglect, harm, or abuse by either parent
  • If the parent has had problems with substance abuse or mental health issues
  • The child’s preference if he or she is over 12 years old
  • The child’s relationship with parents
  • The child’s educational needs
  • The health and safety of the child
  • Any special needs the child might have
  • Other specific needs of the child based on the particular circumstances 

The court may also consider how well each parent supports the child’s relationship to the other parent, co-parents with the other parent, how the child will adjust to changes in school or community, and the child's relationships with siblings and other family members. Once the judge’s decision has been finalized, this becomes a legally binding court order, and each parent must abide by it. These issue are often brought up not only in the original divorce case, but also in a later custody modification suit.

Establishing Parental Rights in Texas Custody Cases

In Texas, a woman is recognized as the mother of her child at birth. Fathers must establish paternity, either through a Voluntary acknowledgement of paternity established by certain paperwork or through the courts, which sometimes involves a paternity test -in order to obtain and protect their fathers' rights to custody, visitation, and support.

How Can I Develop a Parenting Plan?

Texas courts encourage parents to collaborate in creating a parenting plan that serves the best interests of the child.  The judge will either adopt the parents’ agreed upon plan that is presented to the court, or will make those decisions and rulings when parents cannot come to an agreement.

The parenting plan should:

  • Contain specific information about where the child will live
  • Provide visitation to the noncustodial parent as agreed or as determined appropriate by the judge
  • Outline how weekends, holidays, and school breaks will be handled

The Law Firm of T. Wade Jefferies understands that child custody disputes can be incredibly emotional – tensions tend to run high in these cases. I strive to help clients resolve these matters as amicably and professionally as possible. If negotiation is not possible, I am not afraid to represent you in court and advocate for your rights and interests.

Protect Your Child's Best Interests with a Skilled Child Custody Lawyer

When it comes to child custody matters, the well-being and best interests of your child should always be the top priority. As an experienced child custody lawyer, I understand the complexities and emotional challenges that come with these cases. I am dedicated to helping parents in Austin and the surrounding areas navigate the legal process and achieve the best possible outcome for their children.

Why choose The Law Firm of T. Wade Jefferies?

  • Extensive knowledge of Texas custody laws: I am well-versed in the child custody laws specific to Texas, ensuring that we can provide you with accurate and up-to-date legal advice.
  • Personalized representation: I understand that every child custody case is unique. That's why I take the time to listen to your concerns, understand your goals, and develop a tailored legal strategy that aligns with your specific needs.
  • Strong advocacy in and out of the courtroom: Whether your case can be resolved through negotiation or requires litigation, I will fight vigorously to protect your rights and the best interests of your child.
  • Compassionate support: I know that child custody disputes can be emotionally draining and am here to provide you with the support and guidance you need throughout the entire process, offering compassionate and understanding legal counsel.
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Why Hire The Law Firm of T. Wade Jefferies?

  • Empathetic Approach
    We have been exactly where you are and because of that, I can offer empathy and help in a way that is unique and solution-oriented.
  • Accounting Background
    When it comes to high stakes litigation, having counsel with an accounting background, skilled and experienced in litigation, and who understands how businesses operate and should be valued, is a significant asset.
  • Personalized Representation
    We value treating every client like family. Personal trust and relatability are the hallmarks of any good attorney-client relationship.