Divorce can be particularly hard on parents and children alike. During the process itself, couples might argue about how much time they both get to spend with their kids and whether or not they want to negotiate the minutiae of sharing full custody. This is why Massachusetts law often requires couples to make a child visitation or custody schedule. If you and your spouse can’t agree on any terms, the court will make one for you.
The average child visitation schedule should contain a regular residential schedule, a holiday schedule, and a vacation schedule. A regular residential schedule will dictate where the child lives and when the child will spend time with each parent. For example, if a couple shares joint custody, a child could spend alternate weeks with each parent or spend two weeks together with each parent for most of the year.
A holiday schedule will help parents allocate time during any important holidays. For example, both parents could negotiate shared time on Labor Day or they could alternate years, so the child spends the entire day with one parent every other year.
Finally, a vacation schedule is what you and your ex need to decide on before the summer vacation rolls around. Children often get at least two to three months straight of vacation time while school is out. If your kid is not in summer school or part of a summer camp, you may have to negotiate with your ex about how vacation schedules will work. For example, if you and your ex both want to take your child on vacation during the summer, perhaps one parent will take the child during the first half of the season while the other parent takes the child on a different trip during the second half.
If you need help making this schedule with your ex, let us help. Our skilled Bristol County family law attorneys are experienced at helping divorcing couples reach mutually agreeable resolutions to their disputes. Percy Law Group, PC understands this may be a difficult time for you and your family. Let us make it as stress-free for you as possible as we work to help you reach your goals.
Contact us at (508) 206-9900 or fill out our online form to schedule a case consultation with us today.