Kristopher K. Greenwood & Associates

Salt Lake City – Ogden – Lehi

Kristopher K. Greenwood & Associates

Salt Lake City – Ogden – Lehi

We Fight To Win

Experienced Divorce and Family Law Attorneys Serving All of Utah

Working Out The Details Of Parent-Time During Summer

Utah’s child custody statute grants noncustodial parents extended time with their child during summer break. This can be a positive experience for everyone. The custodial parent gets some “down time.” The noncustodial parent gets uninterrupted bonding with their son or daughter. The child gets quality time with each parent – and often two vacations.

However, there often are conflicts over work schedules, vacation plans and other logistics. The Salt Lake City family law attorneys at Kristopher K. Greenwood & Associates advocate for either parent in custody proceedings, including negotiating the details of summer parent-time. We also handle modifications of parenting plans when circumstances change.

Utah Law Guarantees Extended Summer Time To The Noncustodial Parent

During the school year, it may not be feasible for the child to spend long periods with the noncustodial parent. But in the summer, the child’s calendar is more flexible and the courts recognize the value of “make-up time” with the other parent.

Utah statute grants the noncustodial parent four consecutive weeks of time with their child. This includes at least two uninterrupted weeks to allow the noncustodial parent to take the child on a trip. The custodial parent is also entitled to two uninterrupted weeks in the summertime. Our lawyers can help to find practical resolution of disputes that may arise, such as:

  • Scheduling the four-week block of summer parenting time
  • Objections to the other parent’s travel plans
  • Overlapping vacation dates
  • Conflicts with summer sports, camps and activities
  • Conflicting family events (weddings, reunions, 4th of July, etc.)
  • Failing to give 30-day notice of summer plans to the other parent
  • Ensuring reasonable phone or video contact with the child

Note: The four-week/two-week blocks are the minimum for summer parenting time. The parents are free to negotiate any arrangement, including having the child spend half or all of the summer break with the noncustodial parent.

Summer Should Be Fun For Your Child

The court’s overriding concern is the best interests of the child. We encourage parents to adopt that same perspective. You want your child’s summer to be enjoyable and carefree. Kristopher K. Greenwood & Associates can guide you to workable resolutions while also firmly asserting your parental rights and protecting your child’s safety and well-being.

Whether you are working out the initial terms of divorce and custody or you are revisiting the custody order, our lawyers offer the sound advice and strong advocacy you seek. Call us at (801) 475-8800 or contact us online to schedule a free initial consultation.