When the final bell rings for the school year, parents and children look forward to the much-anticipated summer vacation.
For divorced parents, in order to ensure the most enjoyable and stress-free vacation with your children, parenting time and vacation schedules should be agreed upon months in advance, before the end of the school year.
Everyone wants to maximize their summer fun and not waste precious summer vacation time haggling over who has the kids for what week, or whether a trip to Mexico or Disneyland is acceptable. To allow for a smooth summer schedule, parents should agree upon a Summer Vacation Child Custody Agreement well in advance and iron out the details with your ex- before the kids have time to utter their first "I'm bored, what's there to do?" Here are a few tips to consider:
- Practice open communication with your ex-spouse. In order not to get mired in the details at the last minute, begin discussions with your ex about proposed summer vacation plans months in advance.
- Agree upon a summer vacation schedule. Work out the dates and times and don't deviate from the schedule at the last minute. Put your agreement in writing, signed by both parents, and give each parent a copy to keep for reference.
- Ask for mediation if you can't agree. If you and your spouse are unable to agree on a schedule, or if you have a volatile relationship, ask a mediator to negotiate the vacation schedule. The mediator should be a neutral party to avoid claims of bias.
- Get the court involved. If mediation didn't or won't work, you can always ask the court to set the summer vacation schedule with your kids. However, this is timely and costly, and may deplete your vacation time and funding.
A summer vacation and holiday schedule is typically set forth in a separation and divorce agreement. However, each summer may bring unique vacation plans so be sure to start planning early and try to come to an agreement.
Getting Legal Help
Experienced Sacramento Family Law Attorney Hal Bartholomew can help you navigate your divorce and child custody issues with respect and compassion. Contact Bartholomew & Wasznicky LLP today for knowledgeable and respectful representation. Call us at (916) 455-5200 or email us at info@DivorceWithRespect.com
