10 Rights Every Texas Parent Has (Even Without Custody)
When a custody order is put in place, many parents believe that losing primary custody means losing their voice in their child’s life. However, under Texas law, this is not the case. Even if a parent does not have physical custody, they often retain important legal rights and responsibilities.
Understanding these rights helps parents stay involved, informed, and empowered to support their child’s well-being.
10 Rights Parents Can Maintain After a Divorce
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The right to receive information
You have the right to receive information from the other parent about your child’s health, education, and welfare. This includes medical updates, school performance, and major life events. And this isn’t an occasional thing, either. This information should be shared regularly between both parents.
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The right to access records
Texas law allows both parents to access medical, dental, psychological, and educational records, regardless of custody. Even if your relationship with your former spouse is toxic, there are alternatives such as speaking directly with your child’s doctors, therapists, and teachers.
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The right to converse with the other parent
You are entitled to consult with the other parent on major decisions about your child’s education, medical care, and religious upbringing, even if you do not have final decision-making authority.
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The right to attend activities
Unless there is a threat of domestic violence or some other horrible crime, parents without custody can attend school functions, extracurricular events, and religious activities. This goes a long way to show your child you really want to be part of their life.
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The right to make emergency decisions
Unless otherwise ordered, you have the right to be listed as an emergency contact and as a parent on all school, medical, and legal records. In addition, if your child is with you and an emergency arises, you have the right to consent to medical, dental, and surgical treatment to protect their health and safety.
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The right to direct contact
As well as your scheduled visitations, you can call, text, or video chat with your child when appropriate. Many court orders encourage or require reasonable communication between parents and their children.
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The right to know about the child’s whereabouts
You are entitled to know the name of the child’s school, daycare provider, and any significant individuals involved in their daily life.
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The right to protect your child from abuse and neglect
You have a right to protect your child from abuse and neglect and can take action to ensure their safety.
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The right to participate in your child’s education
Even after a divorce, you, as a parent, can meet with teachers, attend parent-teacher conferences, and stay actively involved in your child’s academic progress.
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The right to love and support your child
Perhaps most importantly, you have the right to offer emotional and financial support. Your involvement matters, and Texas law recognizes that both parents play a vital role when it’s in the child’s best interests.
Please Call Christman | Daniell Attorneys for Your Legal Needs Today!
Are you looking for family law services in Texas? Christman | Daniell Attorneys is your premier choice. With years of experience and a deep understanding of the legal landscape in cities throughout the Dallas-Fort Worth area, our skilled team is dedicated to helping families navigate complex legal matters. Whether it’s divorce, child custody, or adoption, trust Christman | Daniell Attorneys to provide compassionate and effective representation.
Please consult an attorney for advice about your situation. The material on this website and in this or any blog article we publish is for informational purposes only. They do not constitute legal advice. The attorneys at Christman | Daniell Attorneys believe in tailoring legal advice and solutions to your circumstances.
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