Melissa Fathers' Rights Lawyers

Aggressive Attorneys Protecting Fathers' Rights in Melissa, Texas

As a father, you may have some concerns about exercising and protecting your rights in divorce and child custody proceedings. Although the law around custody has changed over the years, unconscious biases and societal assumptions can still negatively affect fathers. A Melissa, TX family law attorney can advocate for you to help preserve your meaningful relationship with your child.

At The Ramage Law Group, we understand the difficulties sometimes faced by fathers in custody-related issues. When you work with our firm, we will make sure that you are informed of your rights while we fight to protect them in a court of family law.

What Texas Child Custody Law Says About Fathers' Rights

Under Texas law, mothers do not get special preference over fathers and vice versa. Instead, the courts based all custody decisions on what is best for the child.

In Texas, the courts assume that joint custody is best for the child unless there is evidence that shows otherwise. In a joint custody arrangement, you and your co-parent can share physical custody (the right to see your child and take care of them) as well as legal custody (the right to make important decisions on the child's behalf).

At The Ramage Law Group, we can argue for a custody arrangement that allows you to be present and engaged in your child's life. Even if you are not given primary custody rights, we will strongly advocate for an appropriate visitation schedule that allows you reasonable time with your child.

Why Is It Important for Fathers to Establish Paternity?

When a child is born to a married couple, the husband is assumed to be the father and automatically assumes the rights and responsibilities of the role. However, if paternity is not established at birth, you may have to turn to other measures.

If you and the child's mother both agree, you can see an Acknowledgement of Paternity (AOP) that recognizes you as the child's biological parent. However, keep in mind that once you sign an AOP, you only have 60 days (or until a court case about the child is filed) to rescind it if you change your mind.

One of the main reasons to establish paternity is to give you rights to custody. If you are not considered the child's legal father, then you will not be able to request visitation or decision-making responsibility from the court. It also ensures that your child will have a right to death benefits and inheritance in the event of your passing.

What Can I Do if My Child's Mother Is Withholding Visitation?

Your final child custody order can include rights for visitation if you do not have primary custody of your child. This is important to ensure that you can remain part of your child's life even though the child does not live at your residence. If your child's mother denies you visitation in an attempt to alienate you from your child, you may feel frustrated or powerless. However, a skilled family law attorney can take action on your behalf to enforce your custody rights.

At The Ramage Law Group, we can help you work out a possible remedy with your co-parent through informal negotiations. However, if your co-parent still refuses to cooperate, we can file a motion with the court and take the issue to a judge.

Meet With a Melissa, TX Fathers' Rights Attorney

At The Ramage Law Group, we care deeply about protecting the rights of fathers in child custody cases. When you work with our Melissa, Texas fathers' rights lawyers, we will work toward a solution that respects your special bond with your child. Call us at 972-562-9890 or contact us online to arrange an initial consultation today.