Call us : (832) 990-2116 or (346)-670-4714
Call us : (832) 990-2116 or (346)-670-4714
When parents separate or divorce, one of the biggest concerns is making sure both parents remain part of their child’s life. Even if you’re not the parent with primary custody, Texas law recognizes the importance of children having regular and meaningful time with both parents. Still, understanding visitation rights—and protecting them—can be stressful and confusing.
At The Gulley Law Firm, LLC, we work with parents in Sugar Land and throughout Fort Bend County to navigate visitation (legally called “possession and access”). Whether you’re seeking to enforce your rights, adjust an existing schedule, or simply understand how the law applies to your situation, we’re here to help.
You can learn more about us at www.gulleylawgroup.com.
In Texas, visitation is called “possession and access.” It’s the legal term for the time a parent spends with their child when the child primarily lives with the other parent.
The most common framework courts use is the Standard Possession Order (SPO). Unless parents agree otherwise or special circumstances exist, this order sets out a schedule that typically includes:
For children under three or for unique circumstances, courts may create modified schedules. The key principle guiding all visitation decisions is always the best interest of the child.
It’s easy to think of visitation as just a schedule, but it’s much more than that. It’s about maintaining bonds, building memories, and ensuring children know they have two parents who love and support them.
We’ve spoken with parents who were terrified of “losing” their child after divorce, and others who worried that their limited time would hurt their relationship. The truth is, quality time matters. Protecting your visitation rights means protecting your role in your child’s life.
Even with clear court orders, visitation isn’t always smooth. Some of the issues parents face include:
At The Gulley Law Firm, LLC, we help parents address these challenges. Sometimes the solution is negotiation; other times it requires going back to court. Either way, we focus on finding a practical approach that keeps the child’s best interests front and center.
If you have a court-ordered visitation schedule and the other parent is denying your time, you do have legal options. Texas law allows parents to file an enforcement action, asking the court to step in and ensure the order is followed.
Enforcement can involve:
We understand this process can feel intimidating. No one wants to fight with their co-parent in court. But when your rights—and your child’s well-being—are at stake, taking action may be necessary.
Life changes, and sometimes visitation schedules need to change with it. Maybe your work hours shifted. Maybe your child’s school or activities no longer fit with the old schedule. Or maybe you and your co-parent have both moved and need a new plan.
Texas law allows parents to request a modification of visitation orders if there’s been a material change in circumstances. Courts also consider the child’s age and needs as they grow. At The Gulley Law Firm, LLC, we help parents seek modifications that make sense for their family and reflect the realities of everyday life.
In situations where safety or stability is a concern, courts may order supervised visitation. This means visits take place with another adult or at a designated facility. It can feel restrictive, but it’s designed to keep children safe while still allowing parental contact.
We’ve worked with clients facing supervised visitation orders, helping them understand the requirements and—when appropriate—working toward unsupervised time once concerns are addressed.
Visitation disputes are some of the most emotional cases we see. They’re not about money or property—they’re about time with your children, something you can never get back once it’s lost. That’s why we take these cases so seriously.
We’re based right here in Sugar Land, and we’ve helped parents across Fort Bend County navigate custody and visitation matters. Our approach is straightforward: we listen, explain, and guide you through the process. We don’t overpromise, but we do fight hard to protect your rights and your bond with your kids.
Sugar Land is a family-centered community. From school events to Little League games to cultural festivals, kids here are at the heart of so much of community life. That’s why visitation issues hit so hard—being left out of your child’s daily routine can feel like being cut off from the very fabric of family life.
We’ve met parents who felt isolated when visitation broke down, but we’ve also seen how resolving these disputes can restore a sense of normalcy. You’re not alone in this, even if it feels that way right now.
Visitation rights matter—not just for parents, but for children who deserve strong, loving relationships with both mom and dad. If you’re facing a visitation dispute, don’t wait until it gets worse.
Reach out to The Gulley Law Firm, LLC today. Visit www.gulleylawgroup.com to schedule a consultation and learn how we can help protect your time with your children.
Sometimes the hardest part is asking for help. But once you take that step, you’ll realize you don’t have to fight this battle alone.