Can future law changes affect my child custody arrangement?

Child custody arrangements in Texas center on the best interests of the child at the time of the court’s decision. However, changes in laws can impact these arrangements in the future. 

It is important to understand how potential legal changes might affect child custody. Unexpected revisions to the law can upset the balance of your family if you do not have the right preparations in place.

How the law affects child custody

Texas family law governs child custody arrangements, formally known as conservatorships. The law considers various factors when determining conservatorship. These include the child’s emotional and physical needs, the ability of each parent to meet those needs and any history of family violence. While current laws aim to create stability and consistency for children, future legislative changes can alter the weighing of these factors or introduce new considerations.

For example, if the Texas legislature passes a law that changes the criteria for determining the best interests of the child, courts may need to reassess existing custody arrangements. If these new laws create a significant shift in determining custody, parents may find that their current arrangements are no longer in line with the updated legal standards.

Staying informed on the law

As a parent, it is important to stay informed about potential changes in Texas family law. Legislative changes can happen quickly, and parents must be aware of how these changes might affect their rights and responsibilities. Keeping up with legal developments ensures that parents can take timely action to protect their custody arrangements and the well-being of their children. The Texas State Law Library is one valuable resource that makes it easy to stay up-to-date on legal changes.

While future changes in Texas law can affect child custody arrangements, there are proactive steps you can take. Remaining vigilant about potential legislative updates will help you consider how these changes might influence your existing custody agreements.