Parents want to protect their kids from harm and any incidents that could cause them physical pain, emotional harm and mental stress. During a divorce, many Texas parents want to create a custody and visitation plan that will protect the best interests of their children and allow them to have security and stability. In order to do this, it is helpful to understand important custody terms, such as “custodial parent.”
Protecting the parent-child relationship
After a divorce, it is beneficial for a child to maintain strong relationships with both parents. However, one parent may retain primary custody, which means that he or she will be the custodial parent. That parent is responsible for the daily needs of the child, but that does not mean the other parent does not also have a critical role in the kid’s life. Noncustodial parents typically have the right to regular visitation.
The noncustodial parent may also have a right to have a say in major decisions made for the child. There is no perfect custody order, and it is within the right of a Texas parent to seek his or her preferred outcome. In many divorces, a court may determine it is in the best interests of the child to grant parents equitable, joint custody.
Fighting for parental rights
It is not easy to navigate the challenges of child custody concerns. A parent may benefit from seeking the guidance of a knowledgeable attorney when considering custody options. An assessment of the specific situation and unique details can provide a parent with insight regarding how he or she can fight for his or her parental rights.