What Rights Do Fathers Have in Texas?

 Posted on April 05, 2023 in Child Custody

Fathers often feel that they are at a disadvantage when it comes to family law, especially during a divorce in Texas. They often worry about child custody and support, because they are unsure about their rights. If you are a father going through a divorce in Texas, or through a child custody dispute, consult a Frisco divorce lawyer who can protect your legal rights. That being said, the following blog is intended to help you better understand your legal rights in the Lone Star State.

Gender-Neutral Adjudication

Unlike in previous decades, courts are now required to adjudicate child custody in a gender-neutral manner. This means that mothers are no longer presumed to be the most suitable parent for custody, and fathers are recognized as equal partners during child custody cases or divorce in Texas.

Joint Custody First

Texas courts seek the best interest of the children during a divorce, which helps eliminate any gender bias. So instead of presuming mothers as caretakers and fathers are providers, the courts consider all things in the best interest of the children.

Joint custody has become the preferred option in Texas custody cases because it is typically seen as the best solution for the children. However, there are situations in which one parent receives sole custody or a sole managing conservatorship and cares for the child most or all of the time. It all depends on the specific facts of the case and what is best for the child. 

Child Support to Fathers

Fathers who become the custodial parent, or have joint custody, have the right to receive child support. These payments are made by the non-custodial parent (mothers in this instance) and intended to cover the children’s basic needs, like food, clothing, shelter, etc.

In Texas, child support is calculated based on the paying parent's income and the number of children they are supporting.

If you are a father seeking child support, it is important to work closely with a Frisco divorce lawyer to navigate the complexities, legal processes, and ensure that you receive a fair and reasonable amount of child support from your ex-spouse.

Contact a Frisco Divorce Lawyer Today

We hope this article helped you understand your rights as a father in Texas, and how courts make decisions during divorce and child custody cases. While mothers were previously given unfair advantage, this is no longer the case, and fathers are given fair and equal consideration.

We highly recommend consulting a Frisco divorce lawyer from a trusted law firm like the Law Offices of Linda Risinger if you are a father going through a divorce. Call 972-294-6533 for a free initial consultation. 

Source: 

https://www.texasattorneygeneral.gov/sites/default/files/files/child-support/forms/cs-faq%20correct.pdf