How to Prepare for a Child Custody Hearing: What Texas Residents Need To Know

In this article, you can discover…

• How to prepare emotionally for a child custody hearing.
• How long custody hearings last, and what to expect.
• The role your family law attorney will play in the custody hearing.

How Can I Prepare Emotionally For A Child Custody Hearing?

The first advice I give to clients is to make sure you have your ducks in a row. Start creating timelines of significant dates and events that led to where you are today. This helps to formulate your testimony and the words you choose. This way, when you are called to testify, you’re not taken by surprise, fumbling for words, or struggling to explain events clearly.

Focusing on creating a clear, factual timeline can help you center your mind, focus on a task, and calm any anxiety you feel. I’ll also be clear and transparent with you about the hearing process and answer any questions you have. The more you understand and the more you know what to expect, the better prepared you’ll be emotionally.

How Long Do Custody Hearings Usually Last In Family Courts?

It really depends on what kind of custody you are requesting from the court. If you are asking for primary custody, the process of proving that you deserve primary custody will be a lengthy process.

For one, you and the other parent will likely not be in agreement, which can cause delays. Discovery may be necessary. One parent may argue that a third-party attorney (and amicus attorney) is needed to represent the interests of your child. If this happens, we must go to court and testify to decide if an amicus attorney is needed or if a custody evaluation will be done.

Evaluations can take a minimum of 90 days to complete. As a result, there really is no set time frame in which a custody dispute will definitely be resolved, and the process can be lengthy.

Can I Request A Temporary Custody Order During A Child Custody Hearing?

Yes, you can request a hearing for temporary custody of your child. There is a higher threshold to meet to prove that you need temporary custody, but if you meet it, the law does allow for this to happen.

Ebony Williams is a focused, knowledgeable child custody attorney serving Texas. Since 2011, she’s helped clients just like you prepare for custody hearings, petition for the best interests of their child, and navigate the process smoothly and calmly.

Have questions, or in need of legal guidance? Reach out to Ebony Williams, Attorney at Law, PLLC for an initial consultation today.

During A Custody Hearing, Should I Speak Directly To The Judge Or Only Through My Attorney?

The only time you will have the opportunity to speak to the judge during a custody hearing is when you are testifying. In most cases, parents do wind up testifying in hearings, but the determination as to whether you should testify or not will be made by your attorney.

How Can A Lawyer Help Me Prepare And Present My Strongest Case In A Custody Hearing?

Trial preparation (or trial prep) is absolutely critical for child custody hearings. Trial prep is when your attorney meets with you, goes over your testimony, and goes over all the evidence. They’ll also prepare you to take the stand and testify, instruct you on how to present yourself, and make sure you don’t come across as combative.

This process will get you ready to present your strongest case possible and will involve a lot of work behind the scenes as your attorney gets you ready for the hearing. Apart from your individual testimony, however, your attorney will be the one presenting evidence and presenting your defense during the hearing.

Still Have Questions? Ready To Get Started?

For more information on preparing for a child custody hearing in Texas, an initial consultation is your next best step. Get the information and legal answers you are seeking by calling (346) 210-5870 today.