Navigating the emotional minefield of divorce is challenging enough, but when children are involved, the complexities only multiply. Texas courts prefer to grant joint custody when it’s feasible and in the best interests of the child. This blog delves into co-parenting after divorce, offering practical guidance to ensure your children’s well-being and minimize conflict.
Our divorce lawyers in The Woodlands, Texas can help you reach a custody arrangement with your ex and create a parenting plan.
Custody and Possession Orders in Texas
Texas law distinguishes between “custody” and “possession” regarding child-related matters. Custody refers to the decision-making authority about a child’s upbringing, including education, healthcare, and religious involvement. Possession, on the other hand, dictates the physical living arrangements of the child.
In Texas, courts favor joint custody arrangements when feasible. This means both parents share decision-making responsibilities, even if the child primarily resides with one parent. Possession schedules vary greatly, from standard week-on, week-off arrangements to alternating weekends and holidays.
Ultimately, the court seeks a schedule that prioritizes the child’s stability and well-being.
Developing a Parenting Plan
A well-crafted parenting plan serves as a roadmap for successful co-parenting after divorce. This document outlines the logistics of your custody and possession arrangement.
Schedules for Custody
- Specificity: Clearly define the exact days and times each parent has the child. To avoid confusion and conflict, specify routines such as drop-off and pick-up locations and times.
- Holidays and Special Occasions: Outline how holidays, birthdays, and school breaks will be divided. Consider alternating major holidays like Christmas and Thanksgiving, and establish fair arrangements for school trips and graduation ceremonies.
- Vacation Time: Determine how vacation time will be allocated and whether parents will coordinate vacations to minimize disruption to the child’s routine.
- Transition Periods: Specify procedures for transitioning the child between households, including packing instructions and communication protocols to ensure smooth and informed handovers.
Communication Guidelines
- Preferred Channels: Establish preferred methods for communication about co-parenting, such as email, apps, or text messages. Avoid relying solely on phone calls to prevent heated exchanges and document conversations.
- Frequency and Timeliness: Determine the frequency and expected response time for communication to ensure prompt and efficient information exchange.
- Content: Agree on guidelines for communication content, emphasizing factual information and avoiding personal attacks or derogatory language.
- Handling Conflict: Outline a process for addressing disagreements, such as mediation or collaborative negotiation, to avoid escalating conflict in front of the child.
Important vs Routine: Allow the parent with physical custody to make routine decisions (e.g., daily activities, extracurricular activities) while reserving major decisions (e.g., medical care, educational choices) for joint discussion and agreement.
