What is “possession and access” (visitation)?
In Texas, visitation is called possession of and access to a child. A parent can get possession and access unless the judge determines it is not in the best interests of the child and will endanger the physical or emotional well-being of the child.1
During the time that a parent has possession of his/her child, s/he has:
- the duty of care, control, protection, and reasonable discipline of the child;
- the duty to support the child, including providing the child with clothing, food, shelter, and medical and dental care not involving an invasive procedure;
- the right to consent for the child to medical and dental care not involving an invasive procedure; and
- the right to direct the moral and religious training of the child.2
A judge will create a visitation schedule, called a standard possession order, using certain guidelines. A standard possession order is used for children three years of age or older.3 For a child less than three years old, the judge will create a visitation schedule that s/he thinks is appropriate.4 See What factors will a judge consider for a child who is less than three years old? for more information.
A possession order can be changed to meet the particular needs of the managing conservator(s), possessory conservator and the child(ren).5
1 Tex. Fam. Code § 153.191
2 Tex. Fam. Code § 153.074
3 Tex. Fam. Code § 153.251
4 Tex. Fam. Code § 153.254
5 Tex. Fam. Code § 153.253