Every spring, I start hearing the same thing from clients: “Summer is coming and I have no idea how this is going to work.”
I get it. Summer sounds like freedom — long days, vacations, kids out of school. But for divorced and separated parents in Texas, it can also mean confusion, miscommunication, and sometimes conflict. After decades of practicing family law in Dallas, I’ve seen summer derail even the most cooperative co-parenting relationships.
So here’s the honest advice I give the families I work with.
Know your order — really know it.
Most Texas custody orders include a Standard Possession Order, which gives the non-primary parent extended summer possession — typically 30 days, which can be taken in one block or split into shorter periods. The details matter. When does notice need to be given? What are the exact dates? What happens on holidays that fall during summer? Where do the pick-ups and drop-offs happen in summer?
A surprising number of parents don’t actually know what their order says until there’s a disagreement. Read it before making plans. If you have questions, call your attorney — not your co-parent.
Get ahead of travel plans early.
If you’re planning to travel out of state — or out of the country — with your children this summer, check your custody order first. Many orders require advance written notice to the other parent. International travel almost always requires additional consent or court approval, and passports for minor children require both parents’ signatures.
I’ve seen summer vacations fall apart at the last minute because a parent didn’t follow the proper steps. Don’t let that be you. Plan early and communicate in writing.
Keep the kids out of it.
This sounds obvious, but it bears repeating — especially in summer when parents and kids are spending more time together, and emotions run high. Children shouldn’t be messengers, negotiators, or confidants about custody logistics. Whatever frustrations exist between parents, kids deserve a summer that feels like summer.
If communication with your co-parent is difficult, consider using a co-parenting app like AppClose or OurFamilyWizard. Everything is documented, which protects everyone and keeps conversations focused on the kids.
When things go sideways.
Even with the best intentions, summer doesn’t always go as planned. If your co-parent violates the possession order — refuses to return the children on time, takes them out of state without notice, or denies your scheduled time — document everything and contact your attorney promptly. You have rights, and the courts take violations seriously.
Summer should be a time your children look back on with good memories. With a little preparation and clear communication, it can be — even when co-parenting is hard.
Greg Beane is a Partner at Webb Family Law in Dallas, Texas, where he has practiced family law for over two decades. For questions about summer possession or custody modifications, contact Webb Family Law at (214) 871-2730 or webbfamilylaw.com.
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