Houston Child Custody Attorneys
Compassionate Legal Support for Child Custody Cases in Texas
Child custody disputes can be some of the most emotionally challenging aspects of family law. Whether you’re facing a custody battle during a divorce, modification, paternity case, grandparent rights case, or adoption, the attorneys at Smith, Wilson & Dennis PC are here to protect your parental rights while keeping your child’s best interests at heart.
Our team of Board-Certified Family Law Attorneys brings over 60 years of combined experience handling complex child custody and visitation cases across Houston and surrounding areas. We provide strategic legal guidance to help you secure the best possible outcome for your family.
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Understanding Child Custody in Texas
Conservatorship vs. Visitation: What’s the Difference?
In Texas, the term "custody" is legally referred to as "conservatorship." A conservator is a parent (or sometimes a non-parent) who has certain legal rights and responsibilities, such as deciding:
✔︎ Where the child will live
✔︎ Where the child will go to school
✔︎ Medical and psychological care decisions
In most cases, one parent is named the primary conservator, meaning the child resides with them, while the other parent is granted visitation (possession and access) through a Standard Possession Order (SPO).
What is a Standard Possession Order (SPO)?
A Standard Possession Order outlines a structured visitation schedule for the non-custodial parent, typically including:
✔︎ Two weekends per month
✔︎ Thursday visits during the school year
✔︎ Alternating holidays
✔︎ Extended summer visitation (minimum of 30 days)
If circumstances require adjustments, our attorneys can help you seek modifications to an existing custody order to better suit your child's needs.
Why Choose Smith, Wilson & Dennis for Your Child Custody Case?
Decades of Experience in Texas Family Law
Our firm has successfully represented parents in Houston, The Woodlands, Katy, Sugar Land, and surrounding areas in high-stakes custody cases, including contested custody, parental alienation, and interstate custody disputes.
Child-Focused Legal Strategy
Texas courts prioritize the best interests of the child when determining custody. We build strong cases based on parental involvement, stability, and past caregiving roles to advocate for the outcome that serves your child’s well-being.
Skilled in Complex Custody Cases
We handle a wide range of custody-related legal matters, including: emergency custody orders, relocation cases, modifications to existing custody orders, and grandparent & third-party custody rights.
Schedule Your Confidential Consultation Today
Navigating a child custody case can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to face it alone. The attorneys at Smith, Wilson & Dennis PC will advocate for your rights and ensure your child’s best interests remain the priority.