Child custody in Pennsylvania becomes especially challenging during the holidays. The law strives to ensure both parents have time with their children on important occasions. However, how this plays out can vary significantly depending on the specific circumstances of the case.
Holiday visitation schedules in Pennsylvania
Most custody agreements in Pennsylvania include a holiday schedule. These schedules are designed to allow children to spend meaningful time with both parents on holidays such as Christmas, Thanksgiving, or New Year’s. In cases where parents cannot agree, a judge may intervene and create a fair plan that takes into account the child’s best interests, ensuring the child has time with both parents during the holiday season.
How does Pennsylvania law handle conflicts over holidays?
When parents clash over holiday schedules, the courts look closely at what is best for the child. Factors such as each parent’s involvement in the child’s life, the child’s preferences (if the child is old enough), and the ability of the parents to cooperate with each other all play a role in the decision-making process. A common resolution in Pennsylvania is alternating holidays, with one parent getting the child for even-numbered years and the other for odd-numbered years.
Holiday custody and out-of-state travel
In some situations, one parent may wish to take the child out of state for the holidays. Pennsylvania law requires that the other parent, and sometimes the court, be notified of such travel plans. In addition, parents may need to coordinate transportation arrangements or provide proof that the child’s well-being is the top priority during the trip. This helps ensure that the child’s safety and comfort are maintained throughout the holiday travel.
Setting up a fair holiday schedule
To avoid stress and conflict, parents should work together to create a detailed, written holiday custody schedule. This schedule could involve alternating holidays every year or dividing the day between both parents. A well-thought-out plan can help ensure that the child enjoys the holidays with both parents without any tension or misunderstandings.
Pennsylvania law supports shared time during holidays. With the right plan in place, both parents can enjoy the holiday season with their child.
