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Protecting What You Value Most

What should Texas fathers know heading into divorce?

by | Apr 9, 2019 |

Divorce can seem overwhelming as you create a new future. You are probably wondering what will happen to your home, how your retirement accounts will be divided and whether you will have to pay spousal maintenance. However, Texas fathers’ foremost concerns revolve around their children.

While you and your spouse are ready to part ways, you still want to maximize time with your children. We will explain how issues such as child custody and child support are addressed in Texas divorces.

Understanding the basics of conservatorship

If you and your spouse are unable to agree on a custody plan, known as conservatorship, the court will decide for you. The court prefers for both parents to be involved in the child’s life, known as a joint managing conservatorship (JMC). However, a JMC does not guarantee equal time with the children, also known as possession and access to the child. All decisions are made on a case-by-case basis to establish what is in the best interests of the child.

If the court thinks that having a relationship with one of the parents could physically or emotionally harm the child, they may establish a sole managing conservatorship (SMC) instead.

Establishing c****hild support

Creating child support payments is much more formulaic than the system for establishing conservatorship and possession. If you are the noncustodial parent, the court will determine your support contributions off your net monthly income and how many children you need to support. However, the court can adjust your payments if future life events impact your ability to pay, such as the birth of a new baby or losing your job.

Protecting your relationship with your children

Many fathers worry that divorce will severely limit their parenting time or destroy their relationship with their children. Fortunately, Texas recognizes the value of protecting all parent-child relationships. In most situations, the court will protect your right to spend quality time with your children.