It used to be rare for fathers to get equal time with their children after divorce. But things have changed, and the courts now recognize how important it is for children to regularly see both parents. As a result, you’re more likely than before to get joint custody of your kids after a divorce in Texas.

But what if you want full custody as the father? As long as you can show that it’s best for your children, you have a chance of getting full legal and physical custody of your kids. Consider the following factors, and then consult with a family law lawyer in Texas to pursue full custody.

What Are the Steps to Filing for Full Custody?

If you want to be the custodial parent, there are two ways to do this in Texas. One is to file for sole custody, and the other is to terminate the parental rights of your former spouse. If you take the latter route, you will need to prove that the other parent is not fit to help raise the kids.

To do this, you will need to show proof that they have abandoned, neglected, endangered, or seriously injured the children. If you can provide police reports, health records, or court paperwork proving your accusations, you have a good chance of terminating that parent’s rights and getting full custody.

What Factors Are Considered in Court?

If you go for full custody without terminating the other parent’s rights, you will be expected to show that it’s in the best interest of the kids to live with you. To do this, you need to show that you are better able to meet their needs overall.

Some examples of meeting their needs include getting them to school regularly and on time, taking them to the doctor, and spending quality time with them. You should also show that you can provide supervision, healthy food, and a safe home. If you can show that the other parent cannot provide these necessities – or has a history of abuse, neglect, or violence – you have a good chance of getting custody.

What Should You Avoid Doing If You Want Custody?

There are some common mistakes fathers make during divorce that you should avoid if you want full custody. For example, you should not move out of the house where the children live. It’s usually better to stay until you get a hearing, or take the children with you to your new home.

You should also keep performing your regular parental duties, such as taking the kids to school, sports practice, etc. Judges prefer consistency for kids, so their rulings are likely to ensure you can keep doing these things with your children. If you have questions about getting full custody as a father in Texas, call our law firm at (817) 813-8513 to get legal help.