What to know about summer custody agreements

With summer a few weeks away, it is time for you and your co-parent to get a summer custody agreement in place, if you have not done so yet. The court systems recognize that the summers are different than the school year and children have camps and vacations and the like. So how does summer visitation work?

How does a summer custody agreement work?

In a perfect situation, both parents will work together to set a schedule that works for all involved. It is highly encouraged that your visitation schedule be filed with the court, even if both parents are in full agreement. Typically, the courts will go along with whatever the parents decide, if it is in the best interest of the children. If the parents are unable to come to an agreement, the court will step in and set a schedule. The desire of the court is that the children involved will have a good relationship with both parents.

Can a summer custody agreement be flexible?

Your summer custody agreement can include a lot of flexibility. For instance, if one parent is awarded three weeks with the children, those weeks can be broken up or continuous, whatever works best for everyone involved. You can also pick “blackout dates” which allow for previously scheduled activities.

What should we remember when making a summer custody agreement?

Summer custody agreements are flexible and should simply makes sense to all those involved. There are some important things to remember when planning. Visitation is time for the parent and child and should be scheduled as such. You cannot force your co-parent to spend time with the children if they do not want to and you also cannot keep your kids from your former partner. Remember you can ask for whatever you want in terms of custody, just know that it might not always be granted.