If you are getting a divorce and anticipate a dispute with your spouse over child custody arrangements, it is important to be prepared. An attorney that focuses on family law matters can help parents prepare the documentation and other evidence they will need to demonstrate why a particular possession and/or access arrangement is in a child’s best interest.
The good news is that most family law courts in Texas no longer make child custody determinations based on stereotypical gender assumptions. Today, courts recognize that a child may benefit from the influence of both parents, and that support arrangements should reflect each parent’s ability to care for their children. Since both mothers and fathers may have jobs, both may have an equal ability to provide emotional and financial support. Indeed, many courts may begin the analysis with a presumption in favor of joint custody.
In a contentious divorce, however, a parent may preemptively request sole legal custody of a child, also called possession. In the celebrity example of Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie, the couple is locked in a custody battle, with Jolie seeking sole legal custody. Jolie also accused Pitt of child abuse, but authorities have since cleared Pitt of those allegations. Pitt is reportedly working with a child psychologist to arrive at a visitation schedule with the couple’s six children.
When evaluating competing claims for custody, a court will look at the environment and support that each parent can provide for the child. Such factors include providing continuity with a child’s current school arrangement, financial stability, and the child’s own preferences, to the extent he or she is old enough to offer an opinion. Our law firm can help you understand how the law applies to child custody arguments, and we will provide strong advocacy for your rights.
Source: Inquisitr, “Brad Pitt And Angelina Jolie Reportedly Split Over 2 Years Ago! Why The A-listers Waited To Announce Their Divorce,” Perry Carpenter, Nov. 30, 2016
