Divorce can be a tricky process to navigate. While your decision to pursue a separation may ultimately be in your best interests, that doesn’t mean there won’t be any bumps in the road.
One of the most difficult aspects of the divorce procedure is addressing child custody issues. In Texas, both parents generally have legal rights to see their child. Parents will have to display that they are making decisions based on the child’s best interests, and if they cannot do this, the court will take it on themselves to act accordingly.
There are some ways that a parent may jeopardize their custody rights though. Outlined below are some behaviors that are worth avoiding during your child custody case.
Preventing your co-parent from seeing the child
More often than not, the courts in Texas will deem it in the child’s best interests that both parents play an active role in the upbringing of a child. If a judge rules on visitation rights, then the order must be adhered to. If a parent believes that it is unsafe for the child to see their other parent, there must be compelling evidence that this is the case, and this evidence must be presented to the court. A parent cannot simply take it into their own hands to stop the other parent from seeing their child. This could have serious legal ramifications.
Conflicts that get out of hand
There are always going to be disagreements when sorting out child custody rights, what’s important is how these disputes are handled. Parents must put personal grievances to one side and act in the best interests of the child. If one parent starts behaving aggressively toward the other, the judge may consider that when deciding custody.
Negotiating custody matters can be trying but if co-parents can act amicably after divorce, their children can thrive. If you are struggling to make it work with your ex, you may want to explore your legal options.