2023 Utah Summer Parent-time Schedule

Summer vacation with kids in Utah has always been an important time for divorced parents to consider parent time, holidays, and vacation arrangements. However, due to the ongoing impact of COVID-19, there have been some changes and considerations to keep in mind. Let’s take a look at the updated Utah summer parent-time schedule and guidelines for 2023.

Regular Schedule and Modifications

Under normal circumstances, the regular parent-time schedule continues during the summer unless both parents have agreed to a different arrangement. However, in the past few years, it has been crucial to consider the health and safety of the children and follow any local guidelines or restrictions related to the pandemic. This still may impact the summer parent-time schedule in 2023.

Documenting Changes

If any modifications to the summer parent-time schedule are agreed upon, it is important to document these changes in writing. This can help avoid misunderstandings or disputes in the future and ensure that both parents are clear about the revised arrangements.

By documenting changes, both parents have a clear understanding of the modified schedule, which can help prevent misunderstandings or disputes in the future. It provides a written record of the agreed-upon terms and acts as a reference guide for both parents to ensure they are on the same page. Having written documentation can also be helpful if either parent needs to reference the changes when communicating with third parties, such as schools or other authorities involved in the care of the children.

There are various ways to document changes to the parent-time schedule. Some options include sending emails to confirm the agreed-upon modifications, creating a shared online calendar where both parents can input the revised schedule, or using co-parenting apps that have built-in features for documenting and tracking changes.

It is important to ensure that both parents have access to the documented changes and that they keep a copy for their records. This way, if any questions or disagreements arise in the future, the written documentation can serve as evidence of the agreed-upon modifications.

By documenting changes to the summer parent-time schedule, parents can establish clear expectations, promote transparency, and maintain a cooperative co-parenting relationship.

Mediation or Legal Support

If disagreements or conflicts arise regarding summer parent time during the pandemic, it may be helpful to engage in mediation or seek legal support. Mediation can provide a neutral platform for parents to discuss and find mutually agreeable solutions. Consulting with a family law attorney can also offer guidance on legal rights, responsibilities, and potential modifications to the custody agreement.

Extended Parent-time for Noncustodial Parents

During the summer, the noncustodial parent still has the option to exercise four consecutive weeks of parent time. The first two weeks remain uninterrupted, allowing the noncustodial parent to spend quality time with the children without accommodating visits from the custodial parent.

The second half of the four-week period includes mid-week, three-hour visits for the custodial parent. The custodial parent is entitled to these mid-week visits for each of the last two weeks. However, weekends are not included in this arrangement.

Holiday Considerations

It’s essential to consider any holidays that fall within the summer parent-time period. If a holiday belongs to the custodial parent during the non-custodial parent’s four weeks of uninterrupted time, the custodial parent has the right to exercise parent time for that holiday. For instance, if July 4th falls within the custodial parent’s allocated time, they can retrieve the child for that holiday and then continue with the noncustodial parent’s four weeks of uninterrupted time.

Uninterrupted Vacation Time for Custodial Parent

The custodial parent is entitled to two weeks of uninterrupted vacation time during the summer. This uninterrupted time allows them to plan and enjoy vacation activities with the children.

50/50 Shared Custody Cases

In cases with a 50/50 shared custody arrangement, both parents are generally entitled to two weeks of uninterrupted parent time. The four-week uninterrupted parent-time option is limited to custodial/noncustodial scenarios. However, it’s important to review the specific details of your custody agreement to ensure compliance with the arrangement.

Scheduling Vacation Time

According to the Utah parent-time code, both parents are technically supposed to notify each other about their chosen vacation time, whether it’s the four-week or two-week uninterrupted parent time. Ideally, this notice should be given 30 days before the end of the school year. However, considering the challenges and uncertainties posed by the pandemic, flexibility and understanding are crucial.

If one parent provides timely notice while the other does not, it does not automatically mean the parent who failed to notify forfeits their parent time. In such cases, the complying parent can choose when the other parent exercises their parent time, taking into account what works best for everyone involved. It is recommended for both parents to communicate and accommodate each other’s vacation plans as reasonably as possible to maintain a cooperative co-parenting relationship.

Adapting to Changing Circumstances

It’s important to recognize that the COVID-19 situation flipped all of our worlds upside down and may continue to evolve, even in 2023. Stay informed about any updates or changes in your area and be prepared to adapt your plans accordingly.

We understand that navigating summer parent-time arrangements can be complex. If you have any questions or need assistance with your specific case, we are here to help. Contact JR Law Group at (801) 297-8545 to schedule a consultation with our experienced family law attorneys in Salt Lake City, Utah.

JR Law Group is a Salt Lake City based firm specializing in Divorce and Family Law. For more information call JR Law Group at (801) 297-8545 to schedule an appointment or visit them online at jrlawgroup.com and Instagram: @jrlawgroup.

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