Specialty tag(s): Parenting Schedules, Child Custody
June 2, 2025
If you’re raising a child with someone you’re not married to, having a clear legal agreement can make a significant difference. In Texas, that agreement is called a Suit Affecting the Parent-Child Relationship (SAPCR) order. It outlines who makes decisions for the child, when each parent sees them, and how to resolve disagreements. Many co-parents, especially those who get along well, may not see the need for a SAPCR order, but not having one can have serious consequences in the future.
A SAPCR is a legal case used to establish the rights and responsibilities of parents who are not married. You can use a SAPCR for custody, visitation, decision-making authority, and more. If you and your co-parent can agree on all child-related matters, you might not think you need a SAPCR order, but what if that changes? Circumstances change as time moves on, and parental disagreements are almost inevitable. Think of it like a co-parenting backup plan. You might never need it, especially if you and your co-parent are on good terms, but it’s there to provide clarity and structure if you do.
There’s often some confusion for first-time parents over who can file a SAPCR in Texas. While most SAPCRs are filed by one or both parents, Texas law does allow certain non-parents to file as well. This can include grandparents, guardians, or any adult who has had actual care and possession of the child for at least six months before filing.
A SAPCR order can be customized to fit your family’s needs, but it generally covers:
Even with a SAPCR order in place, parents can continue to parent by mutual agreement. The benefit of having a SAPCR is that if an agreement breaks down, there’s a legal structure in place to fall back on.
Sometimes, SAPCR orders include vague or outdated language. If confusion from this ambiguous language starts causing conflict, you may need to get a clarifying order for a Texas SAPCR from the court to make things clear. This process is especially useful if the original terms weren’t specific about holidays, school decisions, or travel. A clarifying order doesn’t change the arrangement; it just makes it clearer.
If you’re navigating a co-parenting situation without a formal agreement in place, speak with an experienced family law attorney at Goranson Bain Ausley like Andrew Tisdale about creating a SAPCR. Contact us today to schedule your consultation.
Our attorneys are experienced in all aspects of family law and will guide you through each step of the process, ensuring you have the information you need to make wise decisions and prepare for the future.
At Goranson Bain Ausley, we strive to deliver clarity about what comes next and confidence that you and your family’s future are more secure. Contact our team and discover how we can help you.
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