Summer plans, child custody and visitation

by | Apr 12, 2016 | Child Custody, Firm News |

California parents who are divorced should be sure to think ahead to summer vacation plans. These will vary depending on the parenting plan and the age of the child. Even though school is out, there may actually be more social events, games and other things going on. Parents should write provisions into the parenting plan that give a time frame for informing each other about summer vacation plans. Many parents find a notice of 60 days to be reasonable.

Summer might also change child support if the amount of time a child spends with one parent changes. Parents should try to communicate with one another and avoid misunderstandings as much as possible. Unfortunately, conflict is not uncommon in these situations. Parents should also keep in mind that visitation and child support are not linked. A parent who owes child support must continue paying it regardless of the disputes that arise.

If necessary, parents can turn to mediation or even go back to court if they cannot resolve their differences. If one parent does interfere with visitation time, the other can file a police report if necessary.

Some studies have found that a lower conflict divorce results in better co-parenting skills afterwards. Parents who are going through a divorce can use mediation to help settle their differences and develop those skills. However, this is not always possible, and they can return to court to try to have agreements regarding child custody, visitation time or child support altered. It is important for parents to understand that they cannot unilaterally make these changes if there is an agreement that has been approved by the court.