In Mississippi family law cases, child custody and parenting time are common topics for disagreement. Unfortunately, the children might get caught in the middle as the parents go back and forth as to how to formulate their schedules.
The state has certain guidelines in place. These are to avoid conflict and ensure both parents have reasonable access to the child if it is in the child’s best interests. Even in cases where the parents are working together and are on reasonable terms, it can be difficult. It is particularly problematic in contentious situations. A sample schedule can be useful to come to a consensus.
Know the options for parenting time
The objective is to make sure the child has sufficient time with each parent. Age is a consideration when making the determination. For example, toddlers under 2 could have graduated visitation or scheduled calls or video chats to form a bond with both parents and achieve a sense of family connectedness.
A Standard Order of Visitation would include the child being with the non-custodial parent from 6 p.m. Friday after school through 6 p.m. Sunday. The parents can work out how pickups and drop-offs are organized. When the kids are off from school for summer vacation, the non-custodial parent can have the child for between two and four weeks.
Holidays can be scheduled based on the odd or even year. A non-custodial parent might have the child for their birthday, for an extended period during a school break, on Mother’s Day or Father’s Day. The custodial parent will have the child on these days during the even-numbered years.
Parents should be prepared and flexible with parenting time
Creating and sticking to a parenting time plan is a complex aspect of family law. It can be difficult for working parents who are trying to move on after a divorce. Having the schedule is important so they can have a predictable idea as to when they will see the child.
Also, for parents to create a viable schedule, it is easier to get on better terms and be flexible when adjustments are needed. To achieve this, it is wise to know what can be done from the outset and consider the alternatives to reach a positive resolution.