Skip to content 
Planning for summer can be an exciting time, but for parents under child custody orders, it also requires careful attention to detail. One of the most important aspects is knowing how to designate periods of summer possession to ensure compliance with court orders while fostering a positive experience for your child. Whether you’re the custodial or non-custodial parent, understanding your rights and responsibilities will help prevent conflicts and ensure that summer is filled with joy, not tension. This guide provides helpful tips for navigating Texas custody arrangements, focusing on creating cherished memories and smooth transitions during the summer months.
Understanding Summer Custody and Visitation in Texas
Parents under child custody orders typically fall into one of two categories: those with primary conservatorship or those with visitation rights. If you hold primary conservatorship, your child resides with you during the school year. On the other hand, parents with visitation rights often spend time with their child on alternating weekends and during extended periods in the summer. Holiday schedules are generally divided equally.
As summer approaches, it’s essential to prepare for the changes in custody arrangements that come with this season. Whether you are a custodial or non-custodial parent, understanding these arrangements ensures a smoother experience for you and your child. Let’s explore what you need to know to make the most of summer visitation in Texas.
Key Information for Non-Custodial Parents
Summer Visitation Overview
Non-custodial parents often have extended visitation during the summer. Under a standard possession order, this period totals 30 days. This time can be a welcome opportunity to strengthen your bond with your child and enjoy uninterrupted time together. However, it requires careful planning and adherence to court orders.
April 1st Notification Deadline
Most custody orders require non-custodial parents to notify the other parent of their desired summer visitation dates by April 1st. If you miss this deadline, the default visitation period runs from July 1st to July 31st, with possession beginning and ending at 6:00 PM.
Customizing Your Schedule
Instead of taking all 30 days at once, you may divide the time into shorter intervals. For example, you might choose three 10-day periods spread across the summer. However, keep in mind that overly fragmented schedules may cause logistical challenges and potential conflicts with your co-parent.
Responsibilities for Custodial Parents
Designating a Weekend During Summer Visitation
Custodial parents can select one weekend during the non-custodial parent’s summer visitation to spend with their child. To exercise this right, notify your co-parent by April 15th. Failure to meet this deadline forfeits your ability to designate a weekend.
Regular Weekend Visitation
Beyond the extended summer visitation period, custodial parents maintain regular weekend schedules. This means first, third, and fifth weekends of the month remain consistent, except during the extended 30-day visitation.
Tips for a Smooth Summer Custody Experience
Review Your Court Orders
Familiarise yourself with the specifics of your custody orders. These documents outline the exact terms of possession, including start and end times, holiday schedules, and any exceptions. If you’re unsure about any aspect, consult a family law attorney for clarity.
Communicate Clearly
Effective communication with your co-parent helps avoid misunderstandings. When planning summer visitation, provide clear, written notification of your desired dates or weekend preferences. Keep communication respectful to minimize conflict.
Stay Flexible
While court orders provide a framework, flexibility can make co-parenting more manageable. Accommodating reasonable requests from your co-parent can foster a cooperative relationship and benefit your child.
Planning for Extended Visitation
Activities to Strengthen Bonds
Use summer visitation as an opportunity to create lasting memories. Plan activities that align with your child’s interests, such as outdoor adventures, local trips, or creative projects at home. Building a positive environment enhances your relationship.
Prepare for Logistics
Ensure you have arrangements for transportation, meals, and accommodations if needed. If your court order requires you to handle pick-up and drop-off, plan accordingly to avoid delays or complications.
Balancing Structure and Flexibility
While summer provides a break from the school routine, maintaining some structure helps children feel secure. Create a flexible schedule that includes time for fun, relaxation, and necessary responsibilities.
Modifying Custody and Visitation Orders
When Changes Are Necessary
If your current custody arrangement no longer suits your family’s needs, you may consider modifying the orders. For example, significant changes in work schedules, relocations, or developmental needs of your child could warrant an adjustment.
Legal Requirements for Modifications
To modify custody or visitation orders, you must demonstrate a material or substantial change in circumstances. Common reasons include a parent’s relocation, a child’s educational needs, or significant changes in work hours.
Consulting an Attorney
Work with an experienced family law attorney to navigate the modification process. They can guide you in presenting evidence, negotiating terms, and ensuring the revised arrangement meets your child’s best interests.
Common Questions About Summer Custody
What Happens if I Miss the Notification Deadline?
If you don’t notify your co-parent of your desired visitation dates by April 1st, the default period of July 1st to July 31st applies. Review your court order to confirm any additional stipulations.
Can Custodial Parents Choose More Than One Weekend?
Custodial parents may designate two weekends during the summer that fall within the non-custodial parent’s extended possession. However, they must provide timely notification, as outlined in their custody orders.
What If Disputes Arise?
If disagreements occur, refer to the terms in your custody orders. For unresolved issues, consider mediation or consult an attorney to address concerns and prevent escalation.
Ensuring a Positive Summer for Your Child
The primary goal of summer custody arrangements is to provide children with a balanced and enriching experience. Both parents must focus on fostering a supportive and loving environment. Following custody orders, communicating effectively, and prioritizing your child’s well-being ensure a smoother and more enjoyable summer for everyone involved.
In conclusion, designating periods of summer possession is a crucial step for parents navigating child custody arrangements. By understanding your rights and responsibilities, you can create a summer that is not only enjoyable but also compliant with court orders. Whether you are the custodial or non-custodial parent, thoughtful planning ensures that both parents can enjoy meaningful time with the child, reducing the risk of disputes and promoting a sense of stability. With careful attention to the details of your custody agreement, summer can become a time of positive memories and smooth transitions for everyone involved.
For additional guidance or legal support, reach out to a qualified family law attorney. Their expertise can help you address challenges and achieve a resolution that works best for your family.
Ebook
![Adobe Stock 62844981[2]](/?seraph_accel_gi=wp-content%2Fuploads%2F2023%2F09%2FAdobeStock_628449812.jpeg&n=a3PK2HcKcL5sbjTfQ34Iw)
If you want to know more about what you can do, CLICK the button below to get your FREE E-book: “16 Steps to Help You Plan & Prepare for Your Texas Divorce”
Other Articles you may be interested in:
- Possession and Access Schedules – Impacts on Weekend Visitation and Custody in Texas
- End of Summer Possession and Transitioning to School Year Possession Schedules
- Summer Break and Possession of Children in Texas
- I Want a Texas Divorce but My Husband Doesn’t: What can I do?
- Am I Married? – Marital Status in Texas
- Can I sue my spouse’s mistress in Texas?
- 6 Tips – On How to Prepare for a Texas Divorce
- Roadmap of Basic Divorce Procedure in Texas
- 6 Mistakes that Can Destroy Your Texas Divorce Case
- Does it Matter who Files First in a Texas Divorce?
Law Office of Bryan Fagan, PLLC | Spring Divorce Attorneys
The Law Office of Bryan Fagan, PLLC routinely handles matters that affect children and families. If you have questions regarding divorce, it’s important to speak with one of our Spring, TX Divorce Attorneys right away to protect your rights.
Our divorce attorneys in Spring TX are skilled at listening to your goals during this trying process and developing a strategy to meet those goals. Contact the Law Office of Bryan Fagan, PLLC by calling (281) 810-9760 or submit your contact information in our online form.
