Family Law Attorney in Waco, Texas

Any legal matter can be difficult to navigate on your own. But when your family is involved in a divorce, child custody dispute, or another issue, the stakes are raised. Everything becomes that much more frustrating, and it’s natural to want to isolate yourself in response.

Don’t make that mistake. When legal difficulties threaten to overwhelm you and the people closest to you, it’s important to reach out for guidance. Since 2008, Attorney Christie Ryan has stood by the side of individuals and families in Texas who are going through some of the most difficult times in their lives. Whether you are initiating a divorce, fighting for child custody, or negotiating spousal support, Ryan Law offers the guidance you need to start this new chapter in your life.

Skilled Counsel for All Types of Family Law Cases

As a Waco family law attorney, Christie Ryan is proud to help clients in Hillsboro, Clifton, Meridian, Gatesville, and the rest of Texas with all types of family law cases. Set up a free initial consultation when you need assistance in any of the following:

• Divorce (including collaborative divorce)

• Child custody

• Child support

• Spousal support

• Modifications to divorce agreements

• Property division

• Parental rights and visitation rights

• Post-judgment modifications and enforcements

• Prenuptial and separation agreements

Understand Child Custody in Texas

In Texas, child custody is called "conservatorship,” a word used to describe the legal rights and responsibilities of a parent. There are two different forms of conservatorship available to parents:

• A managing conservatorship. This kind of custody allows a parent to make legal decisions regarding the child, such as those concerning primary residence, medical treatment, education, and even religion. A managing conservatorship may be a joint managing conservatorship, or a sole managing conservatorship.

• A possessory conservatorship. This kind of custody gives a parent the right to access and visit the child, but not necessarily the authority to make legal decisions on their behalf.

Ultimately, a custody arrangement in Waco and anywhere else in Texas depends on the best interests of the child. In fact, it’s the most important concern for Texas courts in deciding on a conservatorship plan. A number of factors are taken into consideration when it comes to child custody, including:

• Each parent’s relationship with the child

• Each parent’s employment situation

• Each parent’s age, physical abilities, and mental health

• The geographic proximity of the parents’ homes

• The child’s age (and, in some cases, the child’s preference)

• Physical and psychological needs of the child

• Any history of child abuse or domestic violence

If you are facing the difficult process of arranging a custody agreement, let a legal professional show you the way forward. Reach out to us today to get started.

Navigate the Appeals Process

When the judge issues a final order in your family law case, you might be unhappy with the result. Whether it pertains to child custody, alimony, or any other type of case, you may have the option to appeal the decision and seek a favorable outcome. Work with a family law appeals attorney to guide you through the appeals process as you pursue a brighter future for you and your loved ones.

Consider a Collaborative Approach

Many couples decide to work out their divorce outside of the courtroom. They agree to hire attorneys trained in collaborative law, and work toward agreement on all matters pertaining to their divorce, including property division, child custody, and more. As a collaborative divorce attorney, Christie Ryan can act as your facilitator when you hope to reach a fair and amicable resolution to your separation.

Extra Resources

https://www.drcwaco.com/

https://texaslawhelp.org/

https://www.texasattorneygeneral.gov/child-support

https://www.judgerickmorris.com/

https://guides.sll.texas.gov/child-custody-and-support