Can I Increase My Parenting Time in Texas?

 Posted on December 26, 2024 in Family Law

Divorce can take a toll on families, especially when it comes to parenting schedules. In Texas, what is commonly referred to as child custody or visitation is officially called conservatorship, possession, and access. When parents get divorced, they are typically given a court-ordered schedule for when their children will spend time with each of them. 

The parenting schedule might make sense at the time the divorce is settled, but change happens all the time and what worked then might not work best for your family now. If you want to modify your parenting arrangement so you can have more time with your children, speak with a qualified Llano, TX family law attorney to review your options.

How Does a Standard Possession Order Work?

When parents in Texas get divorced, courts typically use a Standard Possession Order (SPO) as a starting point for working out a parenting time arrangement. The SPO outlines when each parent has time with the child, including during weekends and holidays. This guideline works for many families but it may not suit everyone. If you do not think you have enough time with your children, you can request a modification.

When Can You Request More Parenting Time?

To be granted a modification to your Texas parenting time order, you need to demonstrate that your circumstances have changed substantially since the original order was issued. Common examples include:

• The child’s needs have changed.

• Your situation has changed. This can include moving closer to the child, having a more flexible work schedule, or overcoming addiction or illness.

• The child wants the modification. The court will consider the child’s preferences, especially if he or she is at least 12 years old.

• The other parent’s actions merit a modification. If the other parent ignores the existing order, prevents you from seeing your child, or provides an unstable environment for your child, it might justify a change.

How to Request More Parenting Time

Sometimes, parents can reach an agreement about modifying their possession order without going to court. If the other parent agrees with what you are requesting, you can draft an agreement together and file it with the court for approval.

If you cannot agree, you can file a petition individually. The court might require you and the other parent to attend mediation, and if that is unsuccessful, you will need to present your case to a judge.

As always, the court’s top priority is ensuring that any changes made are in the child’s best interest. You can demonstrate how the modification you are requesting can benefit your child by offering testimonies from teachers, coaches, or other professionals; showing how involved you are in your child’s life; and providing proof of any changes in your circumstances that should enable you to spend more quality time with your child.

Contact a Marble Falls, TX Family Law Attorney

If you want more time with your child than your parenting arrangement currently allows, speak with an experienced Llano County, TX child custody lawyer. At Law Office of Russ Alan Baker, PLLC, we are dedicated to helping parents and families reach favorable outcomes. Call us at 325-216-2006 to schedule a private consultation so we can review your case and explain how we plan to help you.