How to File a Motion to Intervene in a Child Custody Hearing in Texas

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Child-custody hearings can be high-stakes affairs, with more than one future on the line, and emotions often running high. Yet, sometimes what's needed is for outside intervention, from a grandparent, aunt, or cousin, someone with the best interests of the child at heart. If that's your situation, and the hearing is set to take place in Texas, you may have wondered how you can intervene.

Fill in your contact information, relation to the child who is the subject of the hearing, and explanation of your reason for intervening, on the form "Notice of Motion to Intervene." Also include the scheduled date, time, and location of the hearing.

Have the form notarized, and prepare copies for each of the interested parties, in sealed, addressed envelopes. Obtain an agreement with an adult person to hand deliver or mail the copies at least eight days before the hearing. The agreement must include a willingness on the part of the individual to complete a form entitled "Affidavit of Service" and to have it notarized.

Visit the court administrator at least five days before the hearing, and hand deliver both the original "Notice of Motion to Intervene" form and the original "Affidavit of Service" form, retaining copies for your own use. Alternatively, these documents may be mailed to the court administrator at least eight days before the hearing.