Learn About Texas Summer Possession Time

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When Will I Have My Kids During The Summer?

Under the Texas Standard Possession Order and calendar (SPO), noncustodial parents or possessory conservators have extended summer possession time, which is usually 30 days, with notice deadlines to avoid conflicts and comply with the deadlines of the Standard Possession Order.  As April 1st and summer approaches, divorced parents in Texas must ensure they understand their summer possession rights and notice requirements so they can have the extended summer possession times they want to have with their kids.

Learn About the Standard Summer Possession Schedule Below

Amie Peace

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Summer Schedule

For parents following the Texas Standard Possession Order that live within 100 miles of each other, the noncustodial parent is entitled to 30 days of possession during the summer break. If the noncustodial parent provides written notice by April 1, they can designate the specific dates for their summer possession within the parameters contained in the Order in Suit Affecting the Parent-Child Relationship Order (Order) or Final Decree of Divorce (Decree). Otherwise, the default scheduled parenting time applies, typically running from July 1 to July 31.

The custodial parent, managing conservator, or the parent with the exclusive right to determine the child’s primary residence, may also select one weekend during the noncustodial parent’s extended summer possession to have the child, provided they give notice by April 15 and follow all of the other details and requirements contained within their Order or Divorce Decree.

The managing conservator also has the option to provide notice to the possessory conservator that one weekend, after the child’s school is dismissed for the summer, which would normally occur will not occur.  Choosing a weekend that possession by the noncustodial or possessory conservator parent will not occur allows the managing conservator or custodial parent to have an extended period of time during the summer as well.  There are details and requirements regarding the required notice and weekend that should be reviewed closely in the Order or Decree, or reviewed and discussed more fully with an experienced divorce attorney to have your questions answered.

Texas Standard Possession Order Notice Requirements

  • Possessory Conservator Parent Notice: The possessory conservator parent must provide written notice to the managing conservator parent by April 1 to select specific summer dates.

  • Managing Conservator Parent Notice: If the managing conservator parent wishes to exercise a weekend during the noncustodial parent’s extended summer possession, they must notify the noncustodial parent by April 15th. The managing conservator parent also has the option to provide notice when one weekend the possessory parent would normally have possession will not occur. The notice must be given by April 15th , on or after April 16th at least 14 days before the chosen weekend.

  • Alternative Parenting Schedules: Parents with customized possession orders should carefully review their court orders to confirm their specific summer possession terms and deadlines.

Tips for Smooth Summer Planning After Divorce

  • Communicate with the Other Parent Early: It may be possible to avoid last-minute disputes by discussing summer plans well before the deadlines whether or not Texas Standard Possession Order applies to your case.

  • Use Written Notices: When you are communicating with your ex-spouse or co-parent, using texts, emails, or certified mail provide a clear record of communication. Additionally, read your Divorce Decree or Order to make certain you are following the requirements for notices in the court order that applies in your parent-child case.

  • Coordinate Activities with the Other Conservator Parent: If your child has summer camps, sports, or other activities, work together with your ex-spouse or co-parent to balance these commitments with possession time.

  • Follow Court Orders: To avoid conflicts, learn and understand your court order and follow the Order or Divorce Decree. Following the court orders with your child and the possession schedule is a way to maintain a conflict-free summer for both parents and children.

Questions About Summer Possession Schedules?

Understanding and complying with Texas Standard Possession Order  summer possession and notice requirements can help ensure a smooth and enjoyable summer for both parents and children. If you have questions about your Texas Standard Possession Order or custom possession schedule or need assistance understanding what your notice requirements are the experienced family law attorneys and divorce attorneys at Peace & Associates in Flower Mound are available to meet with you.

Consulting with an experienced Texas family law attorney is always a good idea. Our Flower Mound family law attorneys serve Frisco, Little Elm, Ponder, Crossroads, The Colony, Carrollton, Lewisville, Highland Village and Lantana.

Amie S. Peace
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Amie S. Peace
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Amie Peace

Founder of Peace & Associates, PLLC

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