Summer is fast approaching, and you may be wondering how to manage child custody as co-parents. Maybe you have plans, with or without your child. To avoid any legal complications, you should approach this time thoughtfully.
Here are three strategies to consider.
Plan in advance
Summer plans can often be complex, especially when trying to coordinate with your co-parent. If you have trips or outings lined up, it’s best to think through them now. Discuss these plans together to ensure they align with the existing custody order. This order is legally binding in Mississippi and may contain guidelines such as:
- How parents divide vacation time
- Setting requirements for out-of-state travel with the child
- Setting restrictions for international travel with the child
Ensuring all your arrangements align with these guidelines helps avoid disputes, as courts can enforce these orders.
Communicate openly
Clear, honest communication is key when planning for the summer break. This doesn’t just mean talking about times or schedules. It also means talking to your co-parent about what each of you expects in terms of time spent with the kids, travel plans and other summer activities.
You should be open about your plans and willing to make compromises. When you’re open to changes, everyone, including your child, avoids any undue stress during this transition into summer.
Make your custody schedule flexible
While it’s important to follow the custody agreement, summer is a time when a bit of flexibility can go a long way. There may be special events, family visits or vacations that require a temporary change in the schedule. If both parents agree, temporary modifications to the custody agreement can be made.
However, it’s crucial to get these changes in writing. This is especially true if these changes are significant and need court approval. This helps prevent misunderstandings and ensures everyone is on the same page.
Dealing with the existing order
Updating an existing custody agreement involves legal processes and may require court approval in Mississippi. It’s not just a matter of mutual agreement between parents. The court also needs to ensure that the changes you make in the custody order are in the child’s best interest.
Changing things around is easier said than done. For this reason, consider seeking an attorney. An attorney can guide you through the legal complexities and ensure the changes to the existing agreement are correctly documented and legally binding.
