Child Custody Attorney in Denton

Few legal matters are more emotionally challenging than disputes over child custody. Whether you are going through a divorce or facing a custody issue as a single parent, the outcome of your case will have a lasting impact on your relationship with your child and your ability to provide a stable environment for them.

At McGlothin Family Law, we represent parents in Denton County and across the Dallas Fort Worth area in all types of custody matters. Led by attorney Kelsey McGlothin, our firm is committed to helping you protect your parental rights while prioritizing your child’s well-being. We approach every case with a deep understanding of Texas law, strong local insight, and genuine care for the families we serve.

Understanding Child Custody in Texas

In Texas, custody is referred to as conservatorship, and there are two types:

• Managing Conservatorship – major rights and responsibilities are shared between both parents
• Possessory Conservatorship – one parent has limited or restricted rights and responsibilities

Texas courts strongly prefer joint managing conservatorship, where both parents share in decision-making responsibilities. However, this does not always mean equal time with the child. The actual parenting schedule is addressed through a possession and access plan, which determines when each parent will have physical time with the child.

Legal vs. Physical Custody in Texas

While Texas law does not use the terms “legal” and “physical” custody, the concepts still apply in practice.

• Legal custody refers to decision-making power regarding education, medical care, religion, and other major areas
• Physical custody refers to where the child lives and how parenting time is divided

Even in a joint conservatorship arrangement, one parent is often designated as the primary conservator with the right to determine the child’s primary residence.

Child Custody Cases We Handle

At McGlothin Family Law, we help parents with a wide range of custody issues, including:

• Custody as part of a divorce case
• Custody between unmarried parents
• Modifications of existing custody orders
• Enforcing court-ordered visitation
• Emergency custody situations
• Relocation and move-away cases
• Sole custody or supervised visitation due to safety concerns

Each family is different. We take the time to understand your goals, your concerns, and your child’s needs before crafting a legal strategy that fits your situation.

How Custody Is Decided in Texas

The best interest of the child is the standard used in all Texas custody decisions. Courts consider a number of factors, including:

• The emotional and physical needs of the child
• Each parent’s ability to care for the child
• The child’s relationship with each parent
• Any history of abuse, neglect, or substance abuse
• The stability of each parent’s home environment
• The child’s preferences (if age appropriate)

Because these decisions can shape a child’s life for years to come, courts take them seriously. Having a knowledgeable attorney who can present your case clearly and effectively is essential.

Modifying an Existing Custody Order

Life changes. If your current custody order no longer reflects your child’s best interests, you may be able to request a modification. This might be due to a change in work schedule, a parent relocating, concerns about safety, or changes in the child’s needs.

To modify a custody order in Texas, you must show:

• A material and substantial change in circumstances
• That the proposed changes serve the best interests of the child

We help clients gather the necessary evidence, file modification petitions, and represent them in court when needed.

Enforcing Custody and Visitation Rights

Unfortunately, not all parents follow court orders. If you are being denied visitation or the other parent is violating your custody agreement, you have legal options. McGlothin Family Law helps parents enforce their rights through the court system. This can include filing a motion to enforce the order, requesting make-up time, or seeking other remedies under Texas law.

We also defend clients who are wrongfully accused of violating custody terms and work to resolve misunderstandings with minimal conflict.

Why Choose McGlothin Family Law

Attorney Kelsey McGlothin is deeply familiar with the Denton County court system and the judges who handle family law matters. She brings a calm, practical approach to even the most emotional custody cases and is committed to protecting your parental rights.

Here’s what clients appreciate about working with McGlothin Family Law:

• Exclusive focus on family law cases
• Personal attention and responsive communication
• Strategic representation with a local advantage
• A child-focused approach to every case

We represent parents throughout Denton, Argyle, Corinth, Highland Village, Lewisville, and nearby communities. Whether your case is just beginning or you need help enforcing or changing an existing order, we are here to help.

Speak with a Denton Child Custody Attorney Today

Custody cases are never just about paperwork or court dates. They are about your children, your parenting time, and your future. Let McGlothin Family Law stand beside you with the guidance and advocacy you deserve.

Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn how we can help protect your rights and your future.