
Helping Families Since 1992
Richmond, TX Child Custody Lawyers
Proven Results in Fort Bend County Divorce & Family Law Cases
Child custody is often a contentious topic for divorcing parents. Emotions can run high, making rational decisions difficult. When trying to navigate this aspect of a divorce or in a post-divorce situation, it is best to turn to a knowledgeable and skilled attorney. Choose a lawyer in Fort Bend County who understands how the local courts view and decide this important issue.
Our firm offers the results-driven representation you need. Our child custody attorneys in Richmond, TX have been resolving custody cases for clients in and around the area for over 29 years. We have built a reputation for diligence, honesty, and finesse in all types of family law cases. You can rest assured that your issue is in good hands at the Law Firm of Johnson & Gaskill PLLC.
Contact us in Fort Bend County at (832) 210-1698 or online for a free consultation.
How Is Child Custody Decided in Texas?
In Texas, child custody is called conservatorship. When parents cannot agree on how custody will be shared, the matter will go to the court. Courts will make a decision based on the best interests of the child.
Under Texas Family Code, conservatorship is divided into two categories:
- Managing conservatorship, which refers to who will have custody and with whom the child will mainly live
- Possessory conservatorship, which means visitation rights
Texas favors joint managing conservatorship so that the child will continue to have an ongoing and meaningful relationship with both parents. The “primary” managing conservator is the parent with whom the child mainly lives, although the child will also spend time with the other parent. In sole managing conservatorships, the child will live with only one of the parents.
Conservatorship grants parents the right to make decisions about the child’s health care, education, welfare, and other facets of his or her upbringing. In a joint managing conservatorship, these rights and duties are shared either jointly or are assigned to one parent.
What Factors Determine Custody in Texas?
Again, Texas will decide child custody using the best interest of the child as the main factor. There are various ways of determining this, which include:
- Child’s age
- Child’s preferences
- Physical and mental needs of the child
- Any history of abuse
- Home environment
- Parents’ financial situation
- Parents’ work life
- Access to support system
The Texas family law courts will use these factors and more when determining what judgement will be in the best interest of the child. Don’t hesitate to contact our firm for additional information and counsel.
How Can a Mother Get Full Custody in Texas?
A Texas mother must prove the child is in physical or emotional danger due to abuse, neglect, or other reasons. Our attorneys represent child custody issues tailored to each client’s unique cases.
Is Texas a 50/50 Custody State?
Texas is not a 50/50 custody state because the court will automatically award each parent equal time with the child. However, the court strongly prefers joint custody, which means that both parents share decision-making authority and parenting time. The court in Texas will only award sole custody to one parent if it is in the child's best interests.
In order to award joint custody, the court must find that it is in the child's best interests. The court in Fort Bend County will consider all of the factors involved in the case, including the child's wishes, the parenting abilities of each parent, and the stability of each parent's home.
If you are going through a custody battle in Fort Bend County, Texas, and are concerned about custody, it is crucial to speak with an experienced Fort Bend County child custody attorney. A custody lawyer can help you understand your legal rights and options and can represent you in a Fort Bend County courthouse.
Dedicated to Serving Your Family
The process of establishing conservatorship can be confusing and stressful. That is why it best to have an experienced lawyer and mediator by your side.
Our firm has a long history of guiding parents through the maze of custody decisions, hearings, and negotiations. We bring a wealth of experience and insight to every case and welcome the opportunity to assist you with this very crucial matter.
Further reading: Unmarried Fathers’ Rights in Texas
Call us at (832) 210-1698or onlineto learn more about how Texas law affects your child custody case .
Small Town Attorneys, Big City Results

Why Choose Johnson & Gaskill?

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Accessible
For your convenience, our office is open Monday - Saturday. We also offer phone or video conferences and online document signing.
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Determination
Our priority is your family. We are determined to fight for your goals.
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Preparation
To ensure optimal results, every case is unique and personalized.
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Integrity
Our firm was founded on the principles of honesty and integrity.
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Experience
Our team has over 5 decades of collective experience between two dedicated attorneys.
Delivering Family-Focused Solutions
Read What Our Clients Have to Say
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“Kathy Johnson helped me navigate through a contentious custody modification.”
- Former Client