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“I am so glad I found Kevin because he helped me all the way through a trial!! My now ex-husband was difficult to say the least. Kevin knew how to deal with a crazy narcissist!!” - Donna M.
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“Luckily, I called the Law Office of J. Kevin Clark, P.C. and Lisa helped me through the process." I highly recommend this firm for all your divorce or post-divorce needs.” - Scott H.
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“I would highly recommend him to anyone, and he will be my first choice if I ever need a lawyer again. Thank you Kevin. I wish you the very best of blessings.” - Joe P.
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“The Law Office of J. Kevin Clark helped me through a difficult time. After many negotiation sessions with the other lawyer, we finally settled at mediation. I am thrilled with the results. Thank you!” - Dave R.
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“If you need real people who put you first, Kevin and his team are who you need. I plan on keeping in touch with them in the future. They have become part of my family.” - James H.
Fort Worth Emergency Child Custody Lawyer
Helping to Keep Children Safe with Emergency Custody Orders
Every state has laws that aim to protect children and keep them safe. When a dangerous situation arises that puts children at risk of harm, it is often necessary to take swift action to prevent such harm from occurring. In some situations, one parent may be neglecting or abusing a child, or they might threaten to kidnap their child to take them away from the other parent. Other times, both parents may suddenly pass away or be unfit to care for the child due to mental illness, addiction, or other types of incapacitation.
When a child is in danger, an adult - who might be one of the child’s parents or not - can petition the court seeking emergency custody of the child. An emergency order can place the child in temporary care of a trusted adult in a safe environment. If you believe you might need an emergency custody order, you should never wait to call a Fort Worth child custody lawyer.
Overview of Emergency Orders
The Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction and Enforcement Act, or the UCCJEA, governs emergency child custody orders. Texas follows this law and, generally, you must live in Texas for six months to file for a custody order in the state. However, if a parent must flee their home state to Texas to protect their child and themselves, the UCCJEA will waive the six-month requirement and allow a court in the new jurisdiction to issue an emergency order.
Whether you had to leave your home state or you normally reside in Texas, you can ask the court to issue an order by preparing and submitting a petition. Each county has different procedures, and some may require you to appear in court, and some may not. The court will review the reasons why you are seeking the order and can issue an emergency order for you to have full custody of the child. The other parent or parents do not have to appear in court and have the chance to present a defense against an emergency order.
Who Can File an Emergency Custody Petition?
In many cases, one parent will seek emergency custody to protect their child from the other parent. However, adults who are not a child’s parents can also seek emergency custody if they are concerned for the child’s safety and welfare. If you are a close relative, neighbor, or friend and believe that parents are not able to properly care for the child, you should speak to a family law attorney immediately. Generally, you will want to report the issue to the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services. Then, you might decide it is necessary to file a petition for emergency custody to temporarily remove the child from their unsafe home.
Contact a Fort Worth Child Custody Lawyer Right Away
The Law Office of J. Kevin Clark represents parents and adults in all types of custody matters. Call (817) 241-3328 or contact us online to discuss your concerns today.
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Convenient Location
Serving clients in Ft. Worth, throughout Tarrant County, and greater Texas.
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Close, interactive, communication ensures alignment with a clients' most important goals.
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Prompt access to your lawyer from day one addressing your concerns and beyond.
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Effective Advocacy
Skilled representation across a wide spectrum of divorce and family law matters.
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Respected Reputation
Voted as a "Top Attorney" in Ft Worth Tx: The City's Magazine - by his peers.
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Trial Experience
Certified in Civil Trial Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization since 1987.
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