Parents generally want the best for their children, but sometimes it seems impossible for co-parents to agree on child custody and visitation plans. In general, these disputes are very emotional, and it is important for parents to seek legal guidance to ensure the best possible outcome for everyone involved.
Contested child custody is an area of law in which Plummer Law Firm is highly experienced. We help parents in West Texas resolve their child custody disputes in the most effective and efficient manner possible, whether it's through mediation, negotiation or going to court. In any case, protecting the child's best interests is always our top priority.
To schedule a consultation to discuss your child custody case, contact Plummer Law Firm in Odessa today. We can help.
More Than 20 Years Of Experience In Texas Family Law
Our principal attorney, Lilly A. Plummer, has practiced family law in West Texas for more than 20 years. In addition to being a former prosecutor and defense attorney for Texas Child Protective Services cases, she has been certified as a family law mediator in Texas since 2010.
Attorney Plummer has the knowledge, experience and compassion to advise you in child custody matters and help you resolve the dispute in or out of court.
For more on cost-effective, out-of-court solutions, please see our overview of family law and divorce mediation.
Providing Innovative Solutions In Complex Cases
At Plummer Law Firm, we help parents explore their legal options for a parenting plan that is appropriate for the family's unique situation. Depending on the individual case, there may be complex factors to consider, including busy work and travel schedules, unique family dynamics, the child's unique emotional needs, any special needs the child may have, the child's extracurricular activities, and the child's preferred living arrangement.
We understand that these cases are hard on parents and children alike, and we make every effort to reach an agreement that meets the needs of both parents while always prioritizing the needs of the child. We also take into account the emotional and financial effects of going to court, and we advise parents as to whether litigation or an out-of-court solution is appropriate for their situation.
Types Of Court-Ordered Child Custody
In many cases, parents are able to agree on custody issues outside of court through mediation or negotiation. When parents are unable to agree, however, it may be necessary for the court to make a decision.
Courts in Texas increasingly recognize the importance of having both parents play an active role in their child's life. Still, child custody orders can vary a great deal in terms of the amount of time each parent has with the child.
For example, with a standard possession order, the child lives primarily with one parent, while the other parent has possession on specific weekends, evenings and holidays.
By contrast, shared custody means the child will spend equal time — or close to an equal amount of time — with each parent.
Sole custody is less common and typically granted only if there is evidence of abuse or neglect by the other parent.
Attorney Plummer can speak with you about your specific situation and help you pursue a favorable outcome.
Contact Our Odessa Law Office Today
Arrange a consultation with our experienced family law attorney. Call 432-580-5459 or contact us via our online form. Our lawyer speaks fluent Spanish. La abogada habla español.