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Home 9 Custody 9 The different types of child custody in Texas

When issues arise within a family that lead to the separation of both parents, it can place any child in a tough position. This will often lead to a child custody case. A common misconception regarding child custody is that there is only one outcome with the child being sent to live within one parent or the other. However, many types of child custody orders may come out of a case.

Physical custody

The term “physical custody” means that a parent has the right to have their child live with them. If the child tends to spend an equal amount of time with both parents, the state will allow joint physical custody. In every case, the ruling will be made in the child’s best interest, so joint physical custody is only possible when the child is able to maintain a normal daily routine. Negotiations might become intense between both parents, so it is important to know your rights as a parent.

Legal custody

Another type of child custody is legal custody. This means that a parent has a say in the child’s upbringing. This can include what religion they practice, medical assistance and their type of schooling. Many states will give this right to both parents. Note that over time, the child custody order might be altered depending on the changing needs of the child.

Sole custody

Sometimes, couples will separate because one parent’s lifestyle isn’t safe for both the other parent and the child. This could involve having a drug or alcohol addiction or a history of being abusive. Courts in Texas will often order sole custody of the child if they deem the other parent unfit.

If you find yourself in a similar situation, you may want to seek the services of an attorney who handles child custody cases. A family law attorney may help you understand your options and work to protect your rights as a parent.

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From the bottom of my heart, I cannot recommend Balekian Hayes enough. As a father fighting to protect his daughters and secure meaningful protections for our future, I needed more than legal representation — I needed a team that understood what was truly at stake. This firm didn’t just manage my case; they stood beside me while I fought for my children with passion, discipline, and faith. They recognized my effort to always put my girls first and reinforced that commitment at every turn.

Lisa at reception is the heartbeat of this firm. From the very first call, she treated me with sincerity and compassion. On days when I felt overwhelmed or discouraged, Lisa gently reminded me that my faith was evidence and that trials are temporary. She consistently reassured me that everything would work out the way it was meant to. She addressed every concern directly or made sure someone did. Her kindness grounded me more than she probably realizes. She sets the culture — patient, understanding, and steady.

Bryn is one of the hardest working professionals I have ever encountered. She was my go-to throughout the case and handled every detail with empathy, precision, and follow-through. What stood out most was how she consistently reinforced that I was a great father. When doubt crept in, Bryn reminded me that my effort to secure protections for my daughters mattered deeply. She genuinely cared about the outcome, not just legally but personally. Her calm strength made some of the hardest moments feel manageable.

And then there is Emory. Emory is exceptional. Her knowledge and strategic leadership transformed our case and ultimately led to a strong victory for my family. But what separates her is her empathy. She saw my pain. She recognized the weight I was carrying as a father trying to do everything right. On days when I questioned whether I was doing enough, Emory consistently reminded me that I was doing amazing — even when I didn’t feel like my best self. She pointed out the victories I had already achieved before she and her team ever stepped in. That perspective restored my confidence. “Relax — we’ve got this,” she would say, these struggles may feel like loses right now, but soon they will be your victories— and she meant it. She fought fiercely for the protections my daughters deserved while also protecting me emotionally through the process.

This firm was the greatest blessing of my year. To the fathers out there: I know how heavy this road can feel. But when you have Balekian Hayes in your corner, the burden truly lifts. They honor your role. They fight for your family. They believe in you when you need it most.

Personally, I know what it feels like to lie awake at night wondering if you’re doing enough… if you’re going to protect your children… if the system will truly see your heart. I lived it. As a father fighting for my daughters and the protections they deserve, I needed more than legal advice — I needed a team that understood what was truly at stake. From day one, Balekian Hayes saw my passion, my effort, and my unwavering commitment to put my girls first. They didn’t just represent me or defend me in court — they strengthened me as a father. Without hesitation, I can say this firm was the greatest blessing of my year.

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