Creating a holiday custody and visitation schedule is a crucial aspect of your parenting plan and, unfortunately, if the language is vague or lacks clarity, chaos and hostility will ensue. Now that the holiday season is here, you should examine your holiday visitation schedule to ensure you and your former spouse are on the same page regarding its parameters. Remember, the holiday visitation schedule takes precedence over your normal custody order, so if something is ambiguous, you should not wait to address it.
For example, if your holiday visitation schedule does not specifically state the exact time when a holiday ends, your co-parent might not know when to drop the children off, which might increase your anxiety regarding their whereabouts. You might not want to deal with making adjustments to your visitation schedule now, but if you postpone it, you might end with a problem that cannot be addressed in court because of the holiday and timing.
Consider some of the following tips while reviewing your holiday visitation schedule:
- Does your holiday visitation schedule specify an exchange point? If it does not, you should include this detail to avoid any confusion about where your ex will drop off the kids.
- Look for “win/win” situations. For example, if your family likes to celebrate Christmas Eve, but your ex likes to celebrate on Christmas day, then there is the possibility of making arrangements which make everybody happy.
Although having an effective parenting plan in place is essential, a little flexibility will go a long way, so try to be understanding and cooperative. Chances are, you will need your co-parent to return the favor at some point. Focus more on ensuring your children get enough time to bond with their parents rather than on being combative or trying to one-up your ex-spouse. The last thing you want to do is increase your children’s stress and anxiety during an already challenging time.
Work on a Holiday Visitation Schedule with a Family Law Attorney Today!
If you are experiencing some difficulties with your holiday visitation schedule, the family law team at Chinn & Associates, PC will help you create an effective plan to help you smooth out any potential obstacles you might face over the holidays. Mark Chinn is backed by four decades of experience and is prepared to guide you through the complexities of this delicate process.
Do not hesitate to reach out to us for the help you need. Contact us today at (601) 202-5594 to discuss the details of your case with our knowledgeable family law attorney.