On Behalf of Kevin E. Sralla | June 20, 2024 | Blog

It’s almost that time of the year — summer vacation. For non-custodial parents in Texas, however, it can be a challenging time, especially when they may not have notified the custodial parent of their plans.

Here are some tips for navigating summer vacation as a non-custodial parent in Texas:

Summer Possession

1. Automatic Rights
   • In Texas, if you’re a non-custodial parent and failed to provide written notice by April 1st, you automatically have an extended summer period of possession with your child.
   • This extended period runs from July 1st to July 31st unless otherwise agreed upon by both parents⁶.
   • It’s a golden opportunity to spend quality time with your child during the sunny days of summer.
2. Planning Ahead:
   • While automatic rights exist, proactive planning is essential.
   • Communicate openly with the custodial parent. Discuss your summer plans well in advance to avoid conflicts.
   • Transparency ensures a smoother experience for everyone involved.

Options for Summer Custody Arrangements

3. Extended Summer Possession:
   • If you live more than 100 miles away, Texas law generally provides 42 days of vacation time during the summer months with your child.
   • Typically, without advance notice by April 1, it starts from 6 p.m. on June 15 and ends at 6 p.m. on July 27, but you can choose custom date ranges by giving notice prior to April 1 of the year.
   • This arrangement is especially useful if you live out of state and want to maximize your time together.
4. Vacation Time Blocks:
   • Instead of a continuous summer schedule, consider specific vacation time blocks. You can allocate your summer possession schedule however you like, provided you do not interfere with the custodial parent’s celebration of Mother’s Day, and Father’s Day, and if you give the custodial parent proper written notice by April 1 of a given year.

Building Positive Summer Memories

5. Quality Time:
   • Summer vacations allow you to create lasting memories with your child.
   • Explore local attractions, plan outings, and engage in fun activities together.
6. Communication and Flexibility:
   • Stay in touch with the custodial parent.
   • Be flexible and understanding if plans need adjustments due to unforeseen circumstances.
7. Legal Compliance:
   • Always adhere to legal requirements and court orders.
   • Seek legal advice if you encounter challenges.

Summer vacation is a precious time to strengthen your bond with your child. Make the most of it.

Call Sralla Family Law PLLC for any questions about summer vacation rights at (210) 212-5656(210) 212-5656 or at www.familylawsanantonio.com.