Schools are getting closer to summer break in Michigan. Children will have roughly three months off, dramatically changing their day-to-day schedule.
For coparents, this may mean that changes are needed to their child custody arrangement. Summer vacation is a common reason for these alterations. Below are a few questions to ask at this time.
Will the same schedule work?
First and foremost, are you going to be able to make the same child custody exchanges over summer break? It largely depends on your work schedule, which may remain the same even though the children no longer have to be at school during work hours. Modifications to the custody schedule may be necessary until school starts back up in the fall.
Will you be taking time off?
Next, parents have to consider their own summer plans. Are you thinking about taking any trips with the children or using your own vacation time? If so, you may need to modify the custody arrangement to have an extended period where you can take the children on a trip, and it’s wise to communicate your plans to the other co-parent well in advance.
Who authorizes childcare?
Finally, coparents may need to discuss childcare. If someone else needs to watch the children while you are at work, how do you and the other coparent decide which daycare, babysitter or extended family member is allowed to provide transportation and day-to-day care? What do you do if there is a disagreement?
These are just a few common questions over summer break. Coparents need to understand their parental rights and the steps to take to modify any existing custody arrangements. Seeking legal guidance is always advised, as custody and parenting time orders are complex. If you have questions about your summer custody arrangements, contact us for a free consultation.