Child Custody Attorney in Corpus Christi

Protecting Parental Rights and Advocating for Your Child’s Best Interests

Child custody cases, whether they arise in divorce or as stand-alone matters, can be challenging. Legal and emotional questions often arise, and these cases may reshape families and relationships. Courts aim to protect the best interests of children in each unique situation.

At Law Offices of Rudy Santos, L.L.C., we understand the details involved in child custody cases in Texas. We focus on protecting parental rights and advocating for children’s best interests. Drawing on years of experience, we guide clients through every stage of complex custody disputes.

Whether you’re going through a divorce or need to resolve a stand-alone custody case, our Corpus Christi child custody lawyers want to help. Call (361) 309-9758 for our Corpus Christi office or (956) 476-3337 for our Laredo office, or contact us online to request a consultation.

Comprehensive Custody Representation

We handle all aspects of child custody cases, including:

• Legal and Physical Custody. We help parents understand the difference between legal and physical custody and advocate for fair custody arrangements.
• Custody Agreements and Parenting Plans. Our firm assists in drafting parenting plans that address important aspects such as visitation schedules, holidays, and parental responsibilities.
• Modifications of Custody Orders. When circumstances change, existing custody orders may need to be modified. We help clients seek or defend against modifications when necessary.
• Enforcement of Custody Orders. If a parent is not complying with a custody order, we assist in taking legal action to enforce the agreement.
• Relocation Cases. When a custodial parent needs to relocate, it can impact custody arrangements. We represent parents seeking or contesting relocation requests.
• Grandparents’ Rights. In certain cases, grandparents may seek custody or visitation rights. We advocate for their interests when applicable.

Texas law uses terms like "conservatorship" for legal custody and "possession and access" for physical custody. In Corpus Christi, family courts see a wide range of arrangements, so we tailor our strategies to meet the needs of local families and keep children at the center of every decision. Nueces County has procedures in place to address unique situations, such as families living far apart or when a parent has moved for military service at Naval Air Station Corpus Christi. Our goal is to help you find practical, lasting solutions that reflect both Texas statutes and the realities Corpus Christi parents face.

Navigating the Child Custody Process in Corpus Christi

Knowing the steps in a Corpus Christi child custody case helps families stay prepared. Typically, the process begins when one parent files a petition in the Nueces County district court. The court may issue temporary orders if needed while the case moves forward. If parents agree on custody terms, the court reviews the agreement to ensure it supports the child’s best interests and then finalizes it. If parents do not agree, the judge may refer them to mediation before scheduling a hearing.

Local judges require parents to provide information about their work schedules, housing stability, and the child’s involvement in schools or extracurricular activities. When parents live in different parts of Corpus Christi or outside city limits, the court reviews proposed changes to ensure a smooth routine for the child. Each step comes with its own requirements, and our team keeps families updated so they can prepare and minimize delays. We are present through every phase, focusing on communication that supports Corpus Christi families and gives them confidence as they navigate legal proceedings.

What to Know About Enforcement & Modification of Custody Orders

After the court finalizes a custody order in Corpus Christi, both parents must follow the terms as written. Sometimes, major life changes like a new job or move make an existing order difficult to follow. Texas law allows a parent to seek a modification by showing a significant change in circumstances. In Nueces County, the parent files this request with the same district court that issued the original order. Judges look for clear evidence before approving changes and always prioritize the child's needs.

When a parent intentionally violates a court order—for example, by withholding visitation or moving a child without permission—Texas law offers enforcement options. The parent seeking enforcement can request the court to ensure compliance and may ask for make-up visitation time. For parents living in different cities or states, Corpus Christi courts work with other jurisdictions to uphold the original order. Our knowledge of the local court system and understanding of how judges handle modifications help us support families as their needs grow or circumstances shift.