11 Sep How Do Divorced Parents Split the Holidays
Navigating the holidays as divorced parents can be challenging. The festive season, often filled with cherished traditions and extended family gatherings, takes on a new dynamic when parents have separated. Deciding where the children will spend their time can lead to tough choices and require careful planning. At N Family Law, we’re here to help you understand how holiday arrangements are typically managed under Texas law and provide guidance on making the process as smooth as possible.
Understanding the Standard Possession Order
In Texas, the “Standard Possession Order” serves as the starting point for determining how holidays are split between divorced parents. This order is designed to prioritize the child’s best interest by providing a balanced schedule that ensures they have meaningful time with both parents during major holidays and school breaks.
The Standard Possession Order addresses several key holidays and special days, including:
- Christmas/Winter Break
- Thanksgiving
- Spring Break
- Mother’s Day Weekend
- Father’s Day Weekend
- The Child’s Birthday
However, the Standard Possession Order does not specifically cover other holidays such as Easter, the Fourth of July, Memorial Day or Halloween. These holidays may require additional negotiation between parents.
Holiday Schedule Details
The Standard Possession Order generally alternates holiday periods between parents on an even-odd year basis. For instance, if one parent has the child for Thanksgiving in 2023, the other parent will have them for Christmas in 2023. The following year, the arrangement flips, so Thanksgiving 2024 will be with the parent who had Christmas 2023, and vice versa.
A unique aspect of the holiday schedule is the Christmas break. Since it spans a longer period, the parents typically alternate possession approximately halfway through the break, usually around December 28th. Spring Break follows a similar alternating pattern.
These possession periods align with the child’s school calendar, ensuring that they spend significant time with both parents during school holidays.
Modifying the Standard Possession Order
While the Standard Possession Order provides a solid framework, it’s not set in stone. Parents have two main options for modifying the holiday schedule:
- Mutual Agreement: Parents can work together to agree on a customized schedule that suits their family’s unique traditions and needs. For example, if a parent has a longstanding tradition of spending Memorial Day at a family reunion, they can negotiate to ensure the child continues to attend if it has been a positive experience in the past.
- Court Order: If parents cannot reach an agreement, they can ask a judge to determine a different schedule. This might be necessary if there are specific traditions, religious observances, or other significant events that require special consideration.
Navigating the First Holidays After Divorce
The first few holidays following a divorce can be particularly tough, as both parents and children adjust to new routines. It’s essential to approach these changes with sensitivity and flexibility. The Standard Possession Order is designed to balance time between parents, but it’s important to communicate openly and work together to ensure a positive experience for your child.
If you have concerns or questions about holiday possession or need assistance in negotiating or modifying your schedule, N Family Law is here to help. Our experienced team is ready to support you through this process and ensure that your child’s best interests remain the top priority.
Feel free to contact us to discuss your specific situation and explore the best solutions for managing holiday arrangements in your family.