As summer vacation quickly approaches, many parents are beginning to make plans for safe trips with their children. However, divorced parents must consider their custody agreement when finalizing their destinations and travel methods. If you are a co-parent and are considering a vacation with your child, here are some key things you need to remember.
For assistance with your child custody agreement, contact our legal professionals today.
Does Vacation Time Violate Your Custody Agreement?
One of the first steps you should take and, perhaps, the most important factor in your planning is to check your official custody agreement to see if there are provisions in place for a vacation. Having a provision like this in your agreement for short summer trips makes your situation easier to handle.
If your custody agreement does not mention anything about vacations with your child, keep in mind that your agreement must still be followed. There are ways to obey your custody order while following through on your vacation plans.
Informal Agreements Regarding Vacation Time
Depending on your relationship with your ex-spouse, it is possible to come to an informal agreement about vacation time should nothing be specified in your custody order. In this scenario, it is important to notify the other parent of your vacation plans as soon as possible. In addition, you should be prepared to provide information related to lodging arrangements and telephone numbers, as well.
If vacation plans interfere with normal visitation time, it is again possible to come to an alternative arrangement with the other parent outside of court. However, these plans must be communicated to the court ahead of time in order to ensure that the custody order is being adhered to.
Modification of Child Custody Agreements
If the relationship between you and your ex-spouse is less than friendly, the chances of working out an informal arrangement may be slim without the use of a neutral third party to help facilitate communication. In these circumstances, it is possible to seek a modification to your custody agreement in order to allow for vacation time. If modification is necessary, then you and your ex-spouse will attend a mediation session with your attorneys as well as a neutral mediator to attempt reaching a solution. If you are unable to compromise, then your case will be heard by a judge who will make the final determination.
Get Assistance With Your Parenting Schedule
Having the right attorney by your side can help make your custody order work for you. Young Law Firm has helped many clients with child custody cases and wants to help you achieve results.
If you are looking for a way to modify your custody order, call us today at (254) 327-1884 or visit us online to schedule a consultation.
.jpg)