Represent Yourself in Texas Family Court

Free resources and guides for pro se litigants in SAPCR custody cases

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Our Mission: To empower Texas parents with the knowledge and tools to effectively represent themselves in Suits Affecting the Parent-Child Relationship (SAPCR).

About No Se to Pro Se

We believe every parent deserves access to justice, regardless of their ability to afford an attorney.

From No Se to Pro Se

Our name represents the journey from "No Self-representation" to "Pro Se" — Latin for representing yourself. We help Texas parents make that transition with confidence.

Why Pro Se?

Family law attorneys can cost $300-500+ per hour. Many parents simply cannot afford representation. Pro se litigation is your constitutional right — we help you exercise it effectively.

What We Provide

Free guides, form templates, procedural explanations, and resources to help you navigate Texas family court. We don't provide legal advice — we provide legal education.

Pro Se Resources

Essential information for representing yourself in a Texas SAPCR case.

Understanding SAPCR

SAPCR stands for Suit Affecting the Parent-Child Relationship. It's the legal proceeding used in Texas to establish or modify:

  • Conservatorship (custody)
  • Possession and access (visitation)
  • Child support
  • Medical and dental support

Key Texas Family Code Sections

  • Chapter 153: Conservatorship, Possession, and Access
  • Chapter 154: Child Support
  • Chapter 156: Modification
  • Chapter 157: Enforcement
  • Chapter 102: Filing Suit

Texas Rules of Civil Procedure

  • Rule 21: Filing and Service
  • Rule 99: Issuance and Form of Citation
  • Rule 106: Method of Service
  • Rule 239a: Certificate of Last Known Address
  • Rule 145: Affidavit of Indigence

Important Deadlines

  • Answer: Monday after 20 days from service
  • Discovery: 30 days to respond
  • Motion hearings: 21 days notice typically
  • Appeal: 30 days from judgment signing

Step-by-Step Guides

Practical guides for common pro se SAPCR procedures.

1

Filing an Original SAPCR

How to initiate a custody case, including petition drafting, filing fees, and service of process requirements.

Guide Coming Soon
2

Answering a SAPCR Petition

What to do when you've been served, filing deadlines, and how to file a counter-petition.

Guide Coming Soon
3

Filing a Modification

How to request changes to an existing custody order, material change requirements, and what to include.

Guide Coming Soon
4

Discovery Process

Interrogatories, requests for production, requests for admission, and depositions explained.

Guide Coming Soon
5

Filing a Bill of Review

How to challenge a default judgment based on improper service or extrinsic fraud.

Guide Coming Soon
6

Courtroom Procedures

What to expect at hearings, how to address the court, presenting evidence, and objections.

Guide Coming Soon

Forms & Templates

Sample forms and templates to help you draft your own pleadings. Always verify current requirements with your local court.

Petitions

  • Original SAPCR Petition
  • Counter-Petition
  • Petition to Modify
  • Bill of Review Petition
Templates Coming Soon

Motions

  • Motion for Continuance
  • Motion to Compel Discovery
  • Motion for Temporary Orders
  • Motion for New Trial
Templates Coming Soon

Discovery

  • Interrogatories
  • Request for Production
  • Request for Admissions
  • Subpoena Duces Tecum
Templates Coming Soon

Other Documents

  • Notice of Appearance (Pro Se)
  • Certificate of Service
  • Affidavit of Indigence
  • Notice of Hearing
Templates Coming Soon

Important Disclaimer

These templates are for educational purposes only. They are not a substitute for legal advice. Court requirements vary by county, and forms may need to be modified for your specific situation. Always check with your local district clerk for current requirements.

Fighting Service Fraud in SAPCR Cases

Many pro se litigants become victims of fraudulent default judgments when opposing counsel uses improper service. Learn more about the SAFE SAPCR Act — legislation to protect Texas parents from service fraud.

Visit SAFE SAPCR Texas

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