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Airline employees often encounter distinct challenges when navigating child custody and visitation arrangements during a divorce in Texas. While the state typically favors the Standard Possession Schedule, this can present issues for individuals with irregular work hours, such as airline employees. The Standard Possession Schedule, for instance, sets specific times—like a 6:00 PM pickup or coinciding with a child’s school dismissal—which may conflict with an airline employee’s work shifts. Given the unpredictable nature of their schedules, it can be difficult for these parents to comply with standard custody timelines, necessitating a more flexible, customized approach to ensure both the parent and child’s needs are met.
In this blog, we will explore the rights of airline employees regarding child custody and visitation in Texas divorces.
Customized Possession Schedules
If Parents Agree:
The most straightforward solution is for parents to reach a mutual agreement on a customized possession schedule that accommodates the airline employee’s work schedule. Texas Family Code §153.255 allows the court to approve possession schedules based on the parents’ agreement.
If Parents Disagree:
In cases where parents cannot agree, the court will step in and determine the possession terms. To deviate from the Standard Possession Order, a parent must demonstrate that it is not in the child’s best interest. This can be challenging, as courts are generally hesitant to alter the standard schedule. However, Texas Family Code provides several provisions that emphasize the importance of frequent contact between children and both parents.
Airline Employee Schedule Example:
Variable Schedule
The court recognizes that FATHER is employed as an airline pilot with ______________ Airlines. Due to his unpredictable flight schedule, FATHER cannot have predictable possession periods on specific days of each month. FATHER receives his monthly work schedule about a month in advance, indicating his work hours.
IT IS ORDERED that within 48 hours of receiving his monthly work schedule, FATHER shall provide a copy to MOTHER either in person or by fax. FATHER will designate his possession periods using the provided form (Exhibit A). If any scheduling conflicts arise, MOTHER will promptly notify FATHER, and both parents will work together to resolve the conflict. If FATHER agrees to modify his possession period, he will have the right to possession during the alternate period he agrees to take.
FATHER’s possession rights are as follows:
Weekends:
FATHER may choose two weekends each month, starting at [choose: 6:00 P.M./the time of the child’s school dismissal/other specified time between dismissal and 6:00 P.M.] on Fridays and ending at [choose: 6:00 P.M. on the following Sunday/school resumption time after the weekend].
Extended Weekend Possession on Holidays:
If FATHER’s possession weekend coincides with a school holiday or a federal/state/local holiday during summer months when school is not in session, or if it begins or ends on such a holiday, the possession will begin at [choose: 6:00 P.M./school dismissal time/other specified time between dismissal and 6:00 P.M.] on the Thursday before the holiday weekend or end [choose: at 6:00 P.M. on the holiday Monday/at the time school resumes after the holiday], as applicable.
Weekdays:
FATHER may select one weekday each week (excluding Fridays) during the regular school term, starting at [choose: 6:00 P.M./the time of the child’s school dismissal/other specified time between dismissal and 6:00 P.M.] and ending at [choose: 8:00 P.M./the time the child’s school resumes the next day].
Please note that this is just a sample schedule, and it can be adjusted as needed to fit the airline employee’s specific circumstances.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, the Standard Possession Schedule is commonly used in Texas. However, airline employees face unique scheduling challenges. These employees can work with their co-parent to create a customized custody and visitation plan. If they cannot reach an agreement, the court may intervene. The court can modify the schedule to ensure it aligns with the child’s best interests, as outlined in the Texas Family Code.
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Law Office of Bryan Fagan, PLLC | Spring Divorce Lawyer
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 a Spring, TX Divorce Lawyer right away to protect your rights.
A divorce lawyer in Spring TX is 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.
