Understanding Father's Rights in Texas
Learn about father's rights in Texas, including the right to regular contact, involvement in decisions, and managing the child's affairs.
Father's Rights in Texas
Fathers in Texas have the same legal rights as mothers when it comes to custody and visitation. Texas law does not favor one parent over another based on gender.
Right to Custody
Fathers have the right to seek custody of their children. Whether it's joint managing conservatorship (JMC) or sole managing conservatorship (SMC), fathers can petition the court for custody arrangements that serve the best interests of the child.
Right to Visitation
Even when the father does not have primary physical custody, he has the right to regular visitation with his children. Texas law refers to this as "possession and access."
Right to Make Decisions
Fathers with conservatorship rights have the authority to make important decisions about their children's lives, including education, healthcare, and religious upbringing.
Establishing Paternity
For unmarried fathers, establishing legal paternity is the first step to securing parental rights. This can be done through:
- Signing an Acknowledgment of Paternity (AOP) at the hospital or with the Vital Statistics Unit
- Filing a paternity case in court
- DNA testing to confirm biological paternity
Seek Legal Assistance
If you need help understanding or asserting your rights as a father in Texas, contact America Family Law Center for legal assistance.
We can help!