Adults dealing with their own issues can overlook how divorce affects the children. Actions meant to protect themselves from (or retaliate against) their former partner could damage the child. That’s why there’s a such thing as children’s rights in a divorce. From my experience at Paula Lock Smyth Law Offices with divorce and child custody cases, following are my insights into children’s … [Read more...]
Who can adopt?
One way in which Texas couples can complete their families is to adopt a child. Adopting a child means becoming the formal guardian of another person and taking over the rights and responsibilities that come along with it. In addition to the legal relationship that this process creates, it provides parents an amazing opportunity to care for and nurture a child and give the child all the support … [Read more...]
An effective parenting plan is possible with the right assistance
Last week, this blog noted the importance of keeping a parenting plan centered on the needs of the child. However, in some child custody situations, parents may wonder if it is possible to create a secure and agreeable parenting plan. A parenting plan is one way parents going through a divorce can ensure their children will have the best care and treatment from both parents regardless of the … [Read more...]
Keeping parenting plans about the child’s needs
Divorce is often a stressful, emotional and unexpected event, but parents in Texas and elsewhere need to be aware how the process impacts their children. While it is clear that the divorce process will significantly change the lives of both parents, the decisions they make during dissolution shape the upbringing a child will be faced with. More importantly, a parenting plan should be about the … [Read more...]
How does the best interests of the child impact child custody?
Child custody issues impact many families, but many parents may not understand how Texas courts make child custody decisions. Courts may evaluate each parent’s capacity to care for the child under the circumstances, but the focus of their decision isn’t on the parents so much as on the child. In general, child custody decisions are based on a legal standard known as “the best interests … [Read more...]