Types of Child Custody in Denton
No two child custody cases are the same. In fact, Texas recognizes several forms of child custody, each with different benefits and considerations. Our lawyers can go over the various child custody types that are available and help you determine which works best for you and your child.
Four important types of child custody in Denton, TX are:
- Sole custody: If sole custody is granted, only one parent will be given parental rights and responsibilities by the court. If your spouse has substance abuse issues or has committed domestic violence, the court will be more likely to approve sole custody. Otherwise, Denton family law courts prefer to avoid sole custody arrangements when possible.
- Joint custody: When both parents are fit to raise their child, joint custody can be considered, and it is even preferred by the court. In joint custody, both parents have a right to spend time with their child and make important decisions when raising them.
- Physical custody: Physical custody describes a parent’s right to live with their child. If joint custody is approved, the child will alternate living with each parent after divorce or separation. If sole custody is used, the parent without parental rights can still petition the court for visitation rights that will let them see their child during approved visits.
- Legal custody: A parent’s right to contribute to important decisions when raising their child is described as legal custody. Typically, legal custody concerns a child’s education, religious upbringing, and medical care, but it may also apply to other parts of the child’s life.
We have helped families just like yours through all types of divorce and family law-related matters. Find out how one of our Board-Certified Family Law Specialists can help you.
Challenges for Child Custody Cases in Denton
Denton, TX is currently under development in many areas. From commercial properties in Rayzor Ranch in the west to cozy residential communities in the east, the city is changing and growing. For many people, the busy development makes them want to stay in Denton, but for others, it makes them want to leave for somewhere quieter. If you and your ex-spouse can’t agree on whether the development of Denton is good or bad, it could become an issue when trying to decide on child custody because it could create relocation complications.
Work with a Denton Local on Your Case
Choose one of our local Denton child custody attorneys for your case. Why? Put simply, local legal professionals know what to expect better than an attorney from another city or county in Texas.
At Coker, Robb & Cannon, Family Lawyers, we are proud to offer our legal services as Denton locals. We know the Denton County courts, the judges who work there, and the reasoning they often use when making a decision for a child custody case. We are also aware of Denton-specific details that could impact your child custody case, such as complications that can arise due to the city’s current growth.
Another important benefit of hiring a local lawyer is that we genuinely care about how your case progresses and concludes. We see you as a neighbor first and a client second. By helping you and your family enjoy a fair and reasonable child custody agreement, we see it as a way to uplift our community.
Support Resources for Denton Locals
A child custody case can be stressful for anyone, even people who initially feel fully prepared for the case and have hired a family lawyer to guide them. If you would like additional support during this difficult time, you may want to review this list of support groups highlighted by Psychology Today*
(* Coker, Robb & Cannon, Family Lawyers is not sponsored or endorsed by or affiliated or partnered with Psychology Today or any of the support groups in this list. We care about the people in our community, so we are providing this information just to spread awareness of different support groups that may help our neighbors going through challenging family law cases, divorces, and child custody disputes.)
Courts in Denton, TX
Depending on the specifics of your child custody case, it will likely be heard at this Denton court of law:
- Denton County Courts Building:
- 1450 E McKinney St, Denton, TX 76209
- 940-349-2000
- Website
Why Choose Coker, Robb & Cannon, Family Lawyers?
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Get More Information About Child Custody – Call Now
There is no reason to wait to get legal help for your child custody case in Denton when Coker, Robb & Cannon, Family Lawyers makes it so easy to work with trustworthy and caring legal professionals. Ever since we opened our doors in 1998, we have become a pillar in the community for reliable legal counsel in all matters related to family law and divorce. Schedule a consultation at our office today, and see how our lawyers can help you, just as we have helped so many people before.
Frequently Asked Questions
More Questions? Consult an Attorney at Coker, Robb & Cannon, Family Lawyers!
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Where Is Your Office Located and How Can I Contact Your Firm About My Child Custody Case?
Our Denton office is located at 3251 Unicorn Lake Blvd, Denton, TX 76210. You can contact us about your child custody case by calling (940) 293-2313 or filling out an online contact form, whichever you prefer.
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Do I Need a Lawyer for a Child Custody Case in Denton?
You are allowed to handle a family law case without hiring legal counsel if you want, but it is not advisable. Family law judges will warn you that managing a child custody case on your own is not recommended, too. They want what is best for your child, and they know that a licensed legal professional can offer important guidance and insight.
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How Long Does a Child Custody Case Typically Take in Denton?
From start to finish, a child custody case can take a few months or longer than a year. It depends on the complexity of the case and the willingness of the parents to cooperate. Courts do not like dragging out child custody cases because it can confuse the child further, though, so it’s important to try to work together.
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What Are the Different Types of Child Custody Arrangements in Denton?Child custody is sorted into different categories and arrangements: physical (which parent can live with the child); legal (which parent can make important decisions for the child); joint (both parents share custody rights); and sole (one parent gets full custody rights).
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How Does the Court Decide Child Custody in Denton?Denton County family law courts will always decide a child custody case based on the best interests of the child. When working on your case, you should stay focused on what your child needs to be happy and build your argument around that.
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What Happens if I Cannot Agree on a Custody Arrangement With the Other Parent?
If you can’t agree on a custody arrangement with the other parent, the case will have to go to court. The family law judge will likely tell you to attempt mediation first. If that effort fails, then the matter will escalate to courtroom litigation.
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Can I Modify an Existing Child Custody Order in Denton County?You can modify an existing child custody order in Denton County if the current order has provisions that are no longer tenable and put you and/or your child in undue hardship. Typically, a modification petition will only be approved if you can prove that you have undergone a “significant life change” that necessitates it.
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What Happens if I Want to Relocate With My Child Outside of Denton?Before you can relocate out of Denton with your child, you will have to discuss the matter with the other parent first. Even if you reach an agreement with each other about the relocation, you should talk to an attorney and discuss if the matter should be taken to court to make it official. No matter what you do, you should never move with your child to another city or county without telling the other parent. You could be accused of breaking a court order at the least or child abduction at the worst.
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What Are My Rights if There Is a History of Domestic Violence in My Child Custody Case?You have the right to bring evidence of domestic violence carried out by your ex-spouse or the child’s other parent to court and use it during child custody arguments. The court may consider domestic violence accusations and convictions when reaching its decision.
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How Does the Court Handle Child Custody Cases Involving Unmarried Parents in Denton County?In Texas, child custody laws tend to automatically favor the mother when the child’s parents are unmarried. The legalization of same-sex marriages has challenged this default, though, so courts need to take more time to evaluate the unmarried parents’ situation before making a decision.
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What Should I Expect if My Denton Child Custody Case Goes to Trial?If your child custody case goes to trial in Denton County, you can expect the judge to want to hear an argument that supports your child’s best interests. You can expect the other parent to bring a lawyer to court, so you should have one, too. You can also expect that the trial process could be difficult for your child, even if they don’t have to go to court often or at all, so you might want to consider talking to a child therapy specialist if your child shows signs of distress caused by the trial.
