Summer parent-time schedules in Utah

With summer quickly approaching and the country slowly opening back up, many families are starting to plan vacations and other events for when the kids are out of school. Divorced or separated parents will need to incorporate these plans into their summer parent-time schedule. Therefore, coming up with a child custody agreement and parent-time schedule that works for both parents is essential for any family with children.

How do we schedule parent-time during the summer?

• Assuming the child is five years or older, custodial parents are entitled to two uninterrupted weeks of extended parent-time with the child at some point during the summer. In other words, the custodial parent will be given two weeks to go on vacation with the child or spend quality time with the child over the summer, without having to worry about drop-offs or visits with the other parent.
• The noncustodial parent, or the parent with fewer overnights, is also entitled to two continuous weeks of parent time without the custodial parent’s involvement. The noncustodial parent may also be entitled to two additional weeks, but the custodial parent will be allowed parent-time on the weekdays during this second two-week period.

It is important to note that there are special rules in place regarding extended parent-time over holidays (e.g. Memorial Day and July 4th) and rules applying to children under the age of five.

It is also important for parents to know that they must let each other know which weeks they will be using for their summer parent-time well in advance. Both parents need to provide notification of their plans for extended parent-time at least 30 days before the end of the child’s school year. If notification is not provided by that time, the complying parent may determine the extended parent-time schedule for the noncomplying parent.

Scheduling time with your child over the summer does not have to be complicated. A Utah family law attorney can help you come up with a schedule that works for your family and ensures that each parent gets quality time with their child when school is out. To speak to an experienced family law attorney, please call Kristopher K. Greenwood & Associates at 801-475-8800.