Texas Conservatorship and Custody Basics
In Texas, the legal term for “custody” is usually conservatorship.
Custody cases focus on:
decision-making authority
parenting time schedules
child stability
and long-term structure that protects the child’s well-being.
Many parents enter custody cases assuming the law works like other states, but Texas uses specific terminology and legal standards.
This post explains Texas conservatorship basics so parents can approach custody cases with clarity.
What Is Conservatorship in Texas?
Conservatorship addresses:
who has legal rights and duties
who makes major decisions for the child
and what authority each parent holds.
Conservatorship is separate from “possession” (parenting time).
Types of Conservatorship
Texas commonly recognizes:
✅ Joint Managing Conservatorship (JMC)
This means both parents share certain rights and duties, although one parent may still have the right to:
determine the child’s primary residence.
Joint conservatorship does not necessarily mean equal parenting time.
✅ Sole Managing Conservatorship (SMC)
This means one parent has primary decision-making authority.
Sole conservatorship may apply when:
safety issues exist
substance abuse is present
or the other parent cannot safely co-parent.
What Is Possession and Access?
Possession refers to parenting time schedules.
Texas has:
standard possession schedules
modified schedules
custom schedules depending on the family’s needs.
Parenting time decisions focus on stability and best interest.
Best Interest of the Child Standard
Texas courts decide conservatorship and possession based on the child’s best interest.
This standard drives most custody decisions.
Custody Is About Long-Term Structure
Texas custody cases create long-term enforceable rules.
The goal is stability for the child — not punishment of one parent.
✅ CTA BLOCK — CUSTODY / PARENTING
Need support with a Texas custody or parenting case?
Custody cases are emotionally intense — but the right plan can protect your child, reduce conflict, and create stable long-term structure.
Helpful resources:
If you’re facing a custody case in Texas, schedule a consultation to discuss your goals and build a child-focused strategy.