Before 1993, the law in Texas gave virtually all decision
making to one parent, usually the mother.
After 1993 however, the legislature rewrote the code so that parental
rights and responsibilities are presumed to be given somewhat equally to both
mother and father. This is known as “joint
managing conservatorship”. However, if
evidence is brought out in court to show that one parent is not fit to make
these decisions, the court may grant virtually all decision making power to one
parent in what is called “sole managing conservatorship.” If no such evidence is brought the court will
generally appoint both parents as conservators and will specify what kinds of
decisions can be made by either parent, what kind require agreement by both
parents and what kind can be made exclusively by one parent only.
