Modification of Child Custody & Visitation

Houston Attorney for Your Changing Child Custody Needs

As families change and children grow, court orders regarding joint physical custody, legal custody and visitation sometimes need to be changed as well. When they do, parents can contact me for efficient and effective legal representation regarding modification of child custody.

At the Houston, Texas, office of Bruce C. Zivley, Attorney at Law, I have been helping families through the practice of law for 25 years. One of my greatest sources of pride is the assistance I've given to parents, often helping them develop and strengthen the relationships they have with their children after a traumatic divorce or separation.

I am board certified in family law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization. I have in-depth knowledge of Texas law on the modification of child custody or visitation.

As a seasoned and knowledgeable lawyer, I help parents anticipate how Texas law will affect their unique situations. I guide them through the child custody modification process, helping them get the best possible results.

Changes in Your Family? Get Your Court Order Modified

If you are being affected by a court order for child custody or visitation, I can help you ask the court to modify or enforce the order. Texas courts look at families' situations when they are considering granting modifications of child custody.

They ask about specific factors, like whether the modification is in the best interest of the child. They usually look to see if circumstances have materially and substantially changed since the court made the order, and they can take into account changes in each child's residence and the care a parent is able to give.

Examples of material or substantial changes that may support a modification of custody or visitation include:

• Serious illness or disability of either parent
• Special needs of the child
• Child abuse or neglect
• Failure to comply with custody or visitation order
• Chemical dependency
• Relocation or move away
• Other factors

Child Relocation and Move Aways

New jobs, remarriages, changes in the economy and many other things can influence a family to move to another county or state. However, such moves will typically put a dramatic hindrance on any existing visitation schedules. As such, parents wishing to relocate with their child must notify the other parent and request approval from the court prior to the move.

When a custodial parent wants to move out of Texas with a child, modification of child custody is an issue best addressed with the help of an experienced lawyer. Call me to talk about how child custody modification law may apply to your unique situation.

I can help you demonstrate to the court how the move will be in the best interest of the child and work with you to modify the existing visitation plan that will not hinder the child's continuing relationship with the noncustodial parent. I also offer services for out-of-state parents.

Contact Us

Please contact my Houston, Texas law office by e-mail to set up an appointment. Or, call 888-837-2157 for a free phone consultation. On weekends and evenings, you may reach my voicemail by calling 281-506-0047.