In Texas, parenting time is known as “possession.” It can be one of the hardest parts of a family law case because parents want to spend as much time as possible with their children. This is especially true as the holiday season approaches. But it is also relevant year-round as parents will want to have the child for their birthday, during breaks from school, and on special occasions.
When trying to come to a workable solution, parents must be aware of their rights and options. To make sure they are treated fairly based on their circumstances, they should understand the value of comprehensive guidance.
What are the options for possession in Texas?
There are two ways to determine when the child will be with which parent. They are by using the default schedule and the election schedule. Generally, the default schedule will be used if the parents cannot agree to one on their own. An election-based schedule means they have changed the Standard Possession Order to suit their needs and desires.
The default schedule protects people by giving them a basic plan for when they will see their child. The election schedule grants flexibility to adjust as needed. For example, if the default schedule says that a parent would have the child on weekends, but the non-custodial parent has a job where they need to work weekends, they can adjust the schedule.
Parents who are on reasonably good terms or have decided to put their personal differences aside for the good of the child can use the election schedule and ensure that each parent sees the child at a time preferable to them. If they are not on good terms, then the default schedule at least lets them have a baseline that must be adhered to.
Parents should understand how to ensure sufficient time with their child
Because children are often caught in the middle of a family law case, it is important that the parents do whatever they can to be aboveboard and ensure the child has a solid relationship with the other parent. With default and election, parents can use the basic schedule or craft their own. Still, disputes can and usually do arise. To make sure the possession orders are followed, it is useful to have experienced assistance.