We Fight for Your Parental Rights in Colleyville, TX
Going through a legal separation or divorce is really tough. If you're a parent, your biggest worry is probably how to keep your kids' lives as normal as possible during this time. But making sure every decision is best for your children can be tricky. That's where an experienced parental rights lawyer can really help.
Jill Setzer and John Richard Setzer, Jr. from Setzer Law Firm, PLLC are here to help if you're feeling lost about your rights as a mom or dad during a difficult divorce or separation. Maybe you need help with:
- Figuring out paternity
- Dealing with a possible move that affects your kids
- Sorting out custody disagreements
- Changing child support orders
Whatever it is, you can count on Jill and John Setzer to know the ins and outs of family law. They'll stand up for the rights you have under state law and help guide you through this challenging time.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation with prominent parental rights attorneys in Colleyville, Texas.
In Texas, custodial parents have strong legal rights over their children. The Texas Family Code 153.132 outlines nine basic rights for custodial parents. These rights give them the power to make important decisions about their child's life.
A custodial parent can decide where the child lives, what medical treatments they receive, and what school they attend. Basically, they have the final say in all major aspects of the child's life.
Let's look at an example: Imagine a custodial mother wants to send her kids to a Christian private school. The non-custodial father disagrees because he follows a different religion. In this case, the mother's choice would likely stand. The father would need to prove that the private school would harm the children to change this decision. Without such proof, he'd have to accept the mother's choice.
This shows how powerful custodial rights are in Texas. The non-custodial parent often has little say in these big decisions, even if they disagree strongly.
The main right is asking the court to change child support payments. This is important if you're having money troubles. For example, if you lose your job or get sick and can't work, you can ask to pay less for a while.
But be careful! Texas has strict rules about child support:
- If you miss payments, you'll owe interest on the unpaid amount.
- If you fall behind, you might have to keep paying even after your child turns 18.
What happens if you don't pay?
If the court thinks you can afford to pay but choose not to, you could face serious consequences:
- You might lose your driver's license.
- Your gun permit could be taken away.
- Other state licenses might be revoked.
- In extreme cases, you could even go to jail.
What should you do if you can't pay?
Act fast! If you're having money problems and can't pay child support, call a lawyer right away. Jill and John Setzer at Setzer Law Firm PLLC can help. They can work to change your child support order quickly. This can help you avoid losing your license or even going to jail.
Remember, it's better to ask for help early than to fall behind on payments.
