Rockwall and Wylie Attorneys Handle Visitation Rights Cases

Texas lawyers help parents maintain strong bonds with their children

In most instances, children benefit from spending time with both parents following a divorce or the end of a nonmarital relationship. Our family law attorneys at Grob & Associates Law Firm PC recognize this and work to protect clients’ visitation rights. With offices in Rockwall and Wylie, our firm can help you develop a parenting time plan that complies with Texas law regarding access and possession. In every case, we use a personalized approach that addresses the needs of both parents and children.  

Texas law on access and possession

When parents do not live together due to divorce or some other circumstance, noncustodial parents typically have the right to spend time with their children, unless there are reasons for barring access, such as child abuse or domestic violence. Child visitation is referred to as “access and possession” in Texas. Access and possession orders set forth when the child will stay with each parent. A judge can create the schedule as part of their child custody decision, or parents can develop their own visitation agreement for court approval. Our lawyers can assist you in negotiating a suitable plan with your co-parent. Should a fair settlement be impossible to achieve, we will advocate for an appropriate resolution before the court.   

Understanding visitation agreements

Texas has the following types of court-ordered visitation agreements: 

• Standard possession order — The standard order provides visitation for the noncustodial parent one weekday afternoon, alternating weekends, specific holidays and during the summer. It varies based on the distance parents live from one another.  
• Modified possession order — Modifications can be made to the standard order if it is not workable for parents, and the adjustments are deemed to be in the best interests of the child.  
• Possession order of a child under three years old — As they are not yet in school, the standard order does not automatically apply for the youngest children. In these cases, parents can come up with their own visitation schedule, or the judge will assess various factors to develop at a schedule that is in the child’s best interests.  
• Supervised possession order — If there are concerns about the child’s well-being with a parent due to a history of domestic violence or substance abuse, for example, visitation with another adult present can be ordered.

Whether you or your ex is seeking visitation, our firm is dedicated to finding a solution that minimizes conflict and provides strong support for sons and daughters.  

Legal process for establishing visitation 

Unmarried fathers whose paternity has been legally established can request visitation under Texas law. This is also true for grandparents and others under the following circumstances: 

• The person requesting must have a legal standing/relationship with the child.

• If there are no existing court orders related to the child, the requester must file a Suit Affecting the Parent-Child Relationship (SAFCR).

• The requester must establish parental or conservatorship status.

• The requester must provide evidence of their relationship with the child and reason for seeking visitation.

• The requester must submit a proposed visitation plan.

• The requester must comply with all procedural rules.

Visitation is not guaranteed even if you follow all the proper steps. We will guide you through the process to improve your chances for a favorable outcome. 

Strong family advocates advise on access and possession factors

Family law issues involving children are complex. When judges make decisions in these cases, they must determine what is in the best interests of the child. Our attorneys are well-versed in the factors that the court generally considers in access and possession cases. Without effective legal you may find yourself on an unequal playing field. Don’t risk a mistake that could negatively affect your relationship with your child. Our attorneys can help you avoid problems that make it more difficult to achieve your objectives. 

Contact our Texas law firm for assistance with your child visitation issue

At Grob & Associates Law Firm PC, we safeguard the rights of Texas parents and help them obtain fair child visitation schedules. Reach out at 972-777-5701 or contact us online to schedule a consultation with one of our attorneys. Our offices are in Rockwall and Wylie.