No Gender Bias Allowed
The Texas Family Code is clear that there can be no gender bias. There is no preference in the law for either mother or father. It is not necessary to prove that the mother is unfit before the father can be considered for the position of primary caregiver. Mom does not start out ahead. The law requires the judge or jury to do what is in the child’s best interest without regard to gender.
Mothers Face Unique Issues In Divorce
The issues faced by mothers in divorce differ from those faced by fathers. Sometimes, a woman will have such fear of “losing the children” that she will allow herself to be manipulated by the husband in negotiations. Occasionally, a father will seek primary custody or conservatorship of the children so that he can negotiate for more of the property. For example, he will offer to withdraw his request for primary custody if wife agrees not to seek any portion of his retirement.