Spring break for divorced or separated couples can pose a unique set of questions and potential obstacles to the ordinary harmony of child custody. Who will get the kids during their time off from school? Details regarding spring break are sometimes hammered out during divorce negotiations, but all too often these issues are not appropriately addressed, leaving the arrangements for spring (and fall) break up in the air. In this instance, it is a best practice to always discuss custody during these typically extended breaks well beforehand to come to an amicable solution.
Child custody is usually cut and dry in most divorce cases in Utah. There are specified days and times when each parent keeps the kids. Parents that communicate well are sometimes able to work out alternate arrangements for grey areas that pop up—such as spring break. If not, our Salt Lake City child custody attorney can help you work things out through the courts; contact us as soon as possible to discuss your situation.
Negotiating
Spring and fall breaks can be part of the custody negotiation during separation or divorce proceedings. Spring break can be complicated when there are children involved that attend different school systems or even schools, since they may not get spring break at the same time. It is important for parents to be able to practice flexibility to come to a solution that fits students’ and parents’ schedules. There may be several fitting arrangements, depending on your circumstances:
- Each parent enjoys half of the spring break period with the child(ren)
- Parents alternate between spring break annually
- One parent spends spring break with the child(ren) and the other spends fall or Christmas break with the child(ren)
There are several factors that come into play when determining the best custody arrangements for children during extended breaks. These may include:
- Work schedule of the parents. Spring break times are never static during the school year, which can make it difficult to plan well in advance. Some parents may not be able to take off work during a particular time of year, which can make it more reasonable for a parent who can take off to retain custody during the break period.
- Tradition. If there are spring break traditions in the family, keeping those intact can be beneficial for the child(ren). Family traditions and which parent is more aptly suited to keep them might also factor in.
- Child’s plans. Particularly among teens and older children, there may be plans in place to spend the time off from school with friends or doing extracurricular activities. Parents may want to honor those wishes when planning for spring break and who will have custody.
It is important to have a back-up plan when it comes to extended school breaks and custody. All sorts of unforeseen circumstances can wreak havoc on even the best-laid plans.
Salt Lake City child custody attorney Emy A. Cordano knows that co-parenting is seldom easy. We’re here to help with any custody issues that may arise. Give us a call at 801-804-5152 now to discuss your options.