Texas Conservatorship Explained: Custody in Plain Terms

Texas family law uses conservatorship for legal decision-making authority and possession and access for the time each parent spends with the child. When parents divorce and there are minor children, a Suit Affecting the Parent-Child Relationship (SAPCR) is required as part of the case.

Texas presumes joint managing conservatorship (JMC) is in the child's best interest, meaning both parents share decision-making authority. JMC does not mean equal time. Sole managing conservatorship (SMC) is ordered when one parent should have exclusive decision-making, often due to family violence, substance abuse, or other safety concerns.

Texas has a Standard Possession Order (SPO) that applies unless parents agree otherwise. Under the SPO, the non-primary parent gets the 1st, 3rd, and 5th weekends of each month, Thursday evenings during the school year, alternating holidays, and 30 days in the summer. Parents can agree to a schedule that fits their family.

Texas calculates child support as a percentage of the non-primary parent's net monthly resources: 20% for one child up to 40% for five or more, capped at a maximum resources amount. Medical support (health insurance for the child) is also required.

Texas orders often include a geographic restriction limiting the child's primary residence to a specific county or region. If the primary conservator wants to move outside that area, they generally need the other parent's agreement or a court modification.

For the full conservatorship, possession, and child support framework, see our Texas child custody topic page. If custody is disputed or safety is a concern, consult a licensed Texas family law attorney.