why do i need to hire a child custody lawyer

A good reason to hire a child custody lawyer is that you want to do right by your kids. Imagine knowing that your child’s living situation was compromised due to your lack of preparedness for court, or by misfiling a key document. A child custody lawyer will help you avoid errors that could impact your child.

Full Answer

Why do I need a lawyer for child custody?

Having professional legal help moves along the process faster and gives you a stronger chance to win the resolution you want. Child custody issues are ultimately decided by the judge's view of the best interests of the child. But, an attorney will partner with you to show strong evidence of why you deserve parental rights.

What happens if I don’t have an attorney for custody?

The lesser-known cons of not having an attorney are: It is risky to fight for full physical custody of your child without a lawyer presenting it in the best light (most courts want to split parenting time evenly) Choosing to represent yourself is a bold choice, and it may work for certain people.

What happens at a child custody hearing?

A child custody case is a part of family law that looks at a child's best interests to decide how much time they spend with each parent. While child support considers the money needed to raise a child, a custody hearing (sometimes called a child custody "battle") considers the visitation rights and parenting plan that most benefits your child.

Should a child custody order be decided by a family court?

Many parents think a custody order (also called "custody agreement") should be decided by the parents and not a family court. If parents can find a solution that works for both of them and, more importantly, is in their child's best interests, then they can present that solution to a judge and avoid a courtroom battle.

Why do we need custody?

The codification of law helps identify inconsistent laws, duplicate laws, and ambiguous laws. Codification creates a uniform source that is easy to access for both professionals and the lay public.

How do I file for custody without a lawyer in Texas?

For parents who want to file for child custody but who cannot afford a lawyer, filing pro se is a viable alternative....File a Petition for CustodyProof of paternity or legal parentage7.Child's birth certificate.Any existing orders related to the child.

Can I hire an attorney for my child Texas?

If you feel that your child is in danger with the other parent, you will need an attorney who specializes in child custody cases to get through to the judge. Your child might be facing: Physical or sexual abuse. Mental and emotional abuse.

What can be used against you in a custody battle?

The Reigning King of What Can Be Used Against You in a Custody Battle: Verbal or Physical Altercations. We wanted to start with the most simple pitfall to avoid: When tempers get high, it's quite alluring to get into a verbal sparring match with your ex-spouse.

What do judges look for in child custody cases?

Mental and Physical Well-Being of Parents Parents' mental well-being is of great concern to a judge in a child custody case. Psychological disorders, overwhelming stress, drug or alcohol abuse, and mental health crises can prevent a parent from acting in their child's best interests.

What should you not say to a lawyer?

Five things not to say to a lawyer (if you want them to take you..."The Judge is biased against me" Is it possible that the Judge is "biased" against you? ... "Everyone is out to get me" ... "It's the principle that counts" ... "I don't have the money to pay you" ... Waiting until after the fact.

How much does a child custody lawyer cost in Texas?

The retainer's exact cost will depend on the complexity of your case and the level of experience your attorney possesses. It is common to see retainers anywhere from $2,500 to $20,000 for a child custody or family law case in Texas.

How do you beat CPS in Texas?

In many circumstances, the best way to beat the case is to go for a dismissal. In Texas, a Child Protective Service case may be dismissed should the judge deem there to be a lack of evidence to warrant such an investigation or indictment, or if CPS is satisfied that certain circumstances are met.