One of the toughest challenges many families face after a divorce is navigating the first holiday season. It’s especially important to create a child custody arrangement that ensures everyone gets the festive quality time they need. Here’s what you should know when discussing the topic.

FAQs: Holiday Child Custody Arrangements

How can you share the holidays fairly?

Many families choose to alternate holidays—for instance, Thanksgiving with Mom and Christmas with Dad, then switch it the following year. Holidays can also be “assigned” on a permanent basis. If you and your ex live close enough to each other, you can also consider splitting the holidays in half, with Christmas morning at Dad’s and dinner at Mom’s, for instance.

What’s best for your family?

Focus on the big picture. Factors to consider include where parents live, their work demands, family traditions, and kids’ school schedules. For instance, if your ex plans to move out of state, you may want to have kids with Mom for the holidays one year and with Dad the next, avoiding extra travel.

What documents enforce your chosen arrangement?

A settlement agreement is ideal; it allows parents to compromise and establish the terms of custody. If your divorce is contentious, a judge may instead enforce a court order. 

Can you change your holiday child custody agreements?

Of course, it’s always possible to revisit custody. If you are unhappy with the arrangement, talk to your ex about modifying it. Any changes should be officially incorporated into the relevant legal paperwork to avoid misunderstandings. Note that courts will only approve some amendments in the event of a change in circumstances that would affect the children’s welfare. A family law attorney can help you assess desired amendments to your child custody agreement.

What if you need to make amendments last minute?

Say you have been called on an emergency business trip and can’t take on your designated child custody duties. Communicate this as soon as possible to both your ex and the courts. If you don’t change the legal documentation, you can get in trouble for violating the agreement.

If you need legal guidance regarding child custody agreements in Dothan or Enterprise, AL, divorce lawyer Donna C. Crooks Attorney At Law can help. With over 20 years in the business, she is known for settling conflicts in a courteous and professional manner—especially when it comes to family law issues. She also has trusted experience handling the intricacies of military divorces. Find out more about her law firm’s services online. For a meeting, call the attorney directly at (334) 598-9534.