Summer is the perfect season to embark on exciting adventures and discover the wonders of Virginia with your children. However, enjoying quality time together can be challenging when navigating the complexities of child custody. Whether you have been divorced for an extended period or are currently facing disagreements with your co-parent regarding custody arrangements, it is essential to comprehend the proper approach to handle child custody. By doing so, you can ensure that the needs of everyone involved are adequately addressed.

What if My Co-Parent Declines Custody Sharing?

It can be incredibly disheartening if your co-parent disagrees with custody sharing over summer break. Fortunately, the laws in Virginia dictate that both parents are expected to abide by the custodial agreements outlined in their divorce decree.

If your co-parent is refusing to share custody during summer, there are several steps you can take. First, you should review your current custodial agreement to ensure no clause prevents or limits custody sharing during summer months.

You could also try communicating with your co-parent and discussing any issues they may have with the arrangement. If they still refuse to share custody, you should consider filing a motion with the court and asking for an order making your co-parent comply with the custodial agreement.

Sharing Custody During the Summer

Making custody arrangements over the summer can be tricky, so ensuring you have a plan in place is essential. The first step is to have a clear-cut parenting agreement or a custody order that states how much time each parent gets with the children.

If there is no existing agreement or if yours does not address how much summertime each parent should get, then it may be necessary to consult a Williamsburg family law attorney for help.

It may also help to make a shared calendar each year outlining when the kids will be with each parent on certain days and during particular weeks. If possible, talk with your co-parent about practical details such as transportation and arrival times.

Additionally, be flexible with your children's summer plans, considering their needs come first. Children often need time away from the tense environment that can occur after divorce or separation.

Contact a Williamsburg Family Law Attorney Today

Nobody should have to navigate a custody arrangement independently, especially during times of high stress, like the summer months. If you find yourself in this situation, our Williamsburg family law attorneys at Pedersen Law can help and offer guidance in creating a plan that works best for your family.

We will provide the following:

• Assistance in creating a summer custody agreement that works for everyone.
• Advice dealing with a contentious co-parent who may be trying to overstep boundaries or break the custody agreement.
• Representation in court, should it become necessary.

‍Contact us today to get help with your case.