San Antonio, Texas, Child Custody Lawyer

Texas law actually refers to child custody proceedings are "conservatorship" actions. According to Texas law, every divorce involving children requires a conservatorship. In general, "conservatorship" refers to the decision-making rights of a parent who has total or partial custody of their child. Depending on the custody arrangement involved, one parent may retain greater decision-making authority. At the Law Offices of Bill Baskette, I help parents in child custody cases retain and defend their rights to conservatorship. When necessary, I consult psychologists and social workers in documenting the suitability of your home environment and ability to care for your child's well-being.

Regardless of whether you are facing divorce or are engaged in an ongoing custody battle, it is important to begin planning for the conservatorship proceedings as early as possible. To schedule a free consultation to learn how I can help you, contact me, child custody lawyer Bill Baskette today.

Joint Custody, Sole Custody and Conservatorship

Under Texas state law, conservatorship is not necessarily a function of custody. In cases where one parent retains sole custody of a child, he or she typically retains a majority of conservatorship. Practically speaking, this means that the custodial parent has greater input with everyday decisions about the child's growth and development. However, the non-custodial parent may still have conservatorship rights that impact larger issues such as a child's religious upbringing, education, or ability to participate in hobbies and sports.

In cases involving joint or shared custody, conservatorship may be apportioned equally or awarded disproportionately. If the court believes it is in the best interests of a child to place a majority of conservatorship with one parent over another, he or she will have more decision-making authority than the other, regardless of the fact that both share in the custody of their child.

Conservatorship and Children over 12 Years Old

In the state of Texas, children 12 years of age or older, can participate in determining custody and conservatorship arrangements. Prior to a custody hearing, an attorney can discuss the issues involved with a child to prepare them for questions that will be asked of them. Since the court will consider testimony or a written statement by a child, I explain what sorts of things the court is interested in and how a child should address the concerns at issue. However, since the court is committed to protecting the best interests of a child, it may not grant the requests of child in determining custody and conservatorship.

Contact Child Custody Attorney Bill Baskette Today

Understanding how conservatorship and custody work together is important, especially when issues and values are at stake regarding the upbringing of a child. Failure to prepare adequately and answer a judge's questions could result in your being denied custody or conservatorship. As your attorney, I protect and assert your rights to ensure you aren't saddled with a child custody arrangement you'll soon regret.

To schedule a free consultation to discuss your case, contact child custody attorney Bill Baskette today.