Christmas parenting time (visitation) after divorce: More than 8 out of 10 Americans anticipate stress during the holiday season according to the American Psychological Association. (http://www.apa.org/helpcenter/parents-holiday.aspx) The stress felt by individuals during or after a divorce is probably higher, especially during Christmas.
In Michigan, the divorce and custody court give the parties leeway in fashioning an appropriate holiday parenting schedule based upon the parties family traditions and needs, coupled with a sprinkle of fairness.
For example, it is not uncommon for a Christmas parenting time (visitation) order to provide that Christmas is alternated, with one parent being awarded the holiday in odd years and the other parent being awarded the holiday in even years. This arrangement works well for parents who travel out of town to visit family for Christmas or regularly vacation over the holiday.
Another alternative is to alternate Christmas day, where one parent is awarded Christmas eve through Christmas day morning, to provide an opportunity to open presents with the children. The other parent is then awarded the remainder of Christmas morning and Christmas day giving the other parent an opportunity to open presents with the children on Christmas day.
A third alternative is to alternate the Christmas break from school recess to school resumption. This can, but does not have to incorporate a Christmas day carve out where both parents spend Christmas day with the children as set forth above.
Christmas parenting time traditions change after divorce. The goal is to make this transition smooth for the best interest of all the parties involved.
About Findling Law
I have been exclusively practicing divorce and family law in Michigan for over two decades. The attorneys at Findling Law all share the core value of practicing law to help people navigate change in their lives, without compromising principles. We specialize in high socio-economic, high-profile and high-conflict cases, while also working with clients of all backgrounds. We recognize that the most important aspect of the practice of law is the application of the law to your specific circumstances.
That is why we provide more free information on divorce and family law than any other Michigan law firm. We want to help you manage your situation. Allow our exceptional legal team to help you navigate the change in your life, without compromising principles.
We want to help you manage your situation. Let our exceptional legal team help you . . .
Local: +1 (248) 399-3300 – toll free: (877-YOUR FIRM)
After hours emergency?: +1 (707) 968-7347
Or email me at: Daniel@Findlinglaw.com
By: Daniel Findling