SUIT AFFECTING PARENT CHILD RELATIONSHIP

Establishing Custody and Parental Rights in Georgetown, Texas

Filing a SAPCR to Define Legal Rights, Duties, and Parenting Time

When parents are not married—or when there is no existing court order—Texas law provides a way to establish legal rights, responsibilities, and custody through a Suit Affecting the Parent-Child Relationship (SAPCR). This legal process helps ensure that both parents understand their roles and duties while providing enforceable protections for the child.

At the Law Office of Carl Knickerbocker, P.C., we represent parents in Georgetown and across Williamson County who need to file or respond to SAPCR cases. Whether you are a mother or father, we help you clarify your rights, protect your parenting time, and create a plan that works for your child’s well-being and stability.

What Is a SAPCR?

A SAPCR is a legal case filed in Texas family court to determine important issues related to a child when no prior court orders are in place. Through a SAPCR, the court can establish:

• Custody (Conservatorship)

• Parenting time (Possession and Access)

• Legal rights and decision-making authority

• Child support and health insurance obligations

• Travel or relocation restrictions

• Other protections and parenting provisions

This process creates a formal structure for how co-parenting will work going forward. Without it, neither parent has enforceable rights or duties, and disagreements can quickly spiral into legal and emotional conflicts.

Why You May Need a SAPCR in Georgetown

Even if things seem amicable now, circumstances can change quickly. Filing a SAPCR provides legal security for both you and your child. It becomes especially important if:

• You are co-parenting without any court orders

• One parent is limiting or denying access to the child

• There are disagreements about major decisions for the child

• You are concerned about the possibility of the other parent moving away

• You want to ensure consistent and scheduled parenting time

• There are unresolved financial support issues

SAPCR filings are common for Georgetown parents who were never married or who need to establish a custody and support plan outside of divorce.

What a SAPCR Can Establish

Filing a SAPCR allows the court to create a legally binding order that addresses:

• Conservatorship (Custody) – Determines which parent has the authority to make key decisions for the child, including education, medical care, and more

• Possession and Access (Visitation) – Creates a detailed schedule for parenting time, including holidays and summer breaks

• Child Support – Sets the amount of financial support to be paid, based on state guidelines

• Health Insurance – Assigns responsibility for providing and maintaining health coverage

• Geographic Restrictions – Prevents relocation that would interfere with the child’s stability and a parent’s access

• Dispute Resolution – Sets up a framework for handling future disagreements

This order becomes the legal foundation for co-parenting and is enforceable through the court if necessary.

Contested SAPCR Cases in Georgetown Courts

When parents do not agree on custody, visitation, or child support, a SAPCR may become contested. The court will step in and make decisions based on the best interests of the child.

We represent parents in both agreed and contested SAPCR cases in Georgetown and throughout Williamson County. Our approach is strategic, honest, and focused on helping you achieve results that protect your rights and your child’s long-term well-being.

Disputes in SAPCR cases often include:

• Which parent will have primary custody

• Whether decision-making will be shared

• How parenting time will be divided

• Whether one parent’s residence should be geographically restricted

• The amount and structure of child support

We are fully prepared to represent you in negotiation, mediation, temporary hearings, or trial.

Local Knowledge Matters in Georgetown

Williamson County family courts follow specific procedures and have established expectations for SAPCR cases. With experience handling cases throughout Georgetown and the surrounding area, we know what local judges expect and how to present your case effectively.

We offer:

• Clear legal strategy and communication

• Trial-tested experience in custody matters

• Honest advice tailored to your goals

• Representation focused on practical, enforceable outcomes

• Cost-effective legal services without sacrificing advocacy

We have helped hundreds of parents in Georgetown secure court orders that protect their parental rights and provide long-term structure for co-parenting.

Ready to Establish a Legal Parenting Plan?

If you are parenting without a court order—or facing disputes over custody, parenting time, or financial support—it is time to file a SAPCR. You deserve legal clarity and enforceable protections for yourself and your child.

The Law Office of Carl Knickerbocker, P.C. provides experienced SAPCR representation for families in Georgetown, Liberty Hill, Leander, Jarrell, Round Rock, and across Williamson County.

Call our office at (512) 763-9282 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation.
Let us help you establish your parental rights, define responsibilities, and move forward with a clear, court-approved parenting plan.