Texas Fathers Rights

Dads in Texas have rights to raise and love their children.

Texas fathers are allowed the same parental rights as fathers across the nation. For years, fathers have been acting to ensure they get time with their children. However, a father's parental rights do not end there. He is also allowed to be a part of decisions affecting his child's future, just as mothers. A father's right to love, nurture and protect his child are fundamental and imperative for his child's well-being.

Government Limitations

Since a Texas father's fundamental rights are protected in the Constitution under the First, Fifth, Ninth and 14th Amendments, there are limitations on government interference. Child Protective Services can only interfere with a Texas father's rights if there is clear and convincing evidence of child abuse or neglect or if he has been charged with violent or sexual crimes. A father has the right to be heard in any custody hearings, according to the Texas Family Code, Title V.

Right to Teach

Teaching children is a protected father's right.

A Texas father has the right to teach his child outside of a school district. This was determined in the landmark case of Pierce v. The Society of Sisters. It stated the government "...excludes any general power of the state to standardize its children by forcing them to accept instruction from public teachers only." A father has the right and responsibility to prepare his child for the future.

Instill Culture

A father has the right to pass on his traditions.

A Texas father also has the fundamental right to instill in his child culture and heritage. The U.S. Supreme Court case of Meyer v. Nebraska determined this right is protected in the 14th Amendment. Allowing Americans to pass on traditions is a freedom given for centuries that is part of common law and Western civilization.

Health Care

A father has the right to make medical decisions concerning his offspring.

A Texas father has the right to decide the appropriate health care for his child. This includes which vaccinations, the nature of emergency care and any decision concerning long-term care. These rights are protected unless the health care causes unnecessary harm.

Right to Bond

A Texas father has the right to bond with his child; therefore, a mother must not try to break this bond. If the relationship is threatened in any way, a father can file for a court order to protect his rights. This order will include how time will be divided between the parents, the child's transportation, how health care decisions will be made and paid and the nature of the child's financial support.

References

• Texas Constitution and Statutes: Family Code Title 5 Chapter 152, Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction and Enforcement Act -
• United States Supreme Court : Parental rights caselaw
• Findlaw: U.S. Supreme Court, Pierce vs. The Society of Sisters
• Findlaw: U.S. Supreme Court, Meyer vs. The State of Nebraska