Texas courts commonly use two primary child possession schedules: the Standard Possession Order (SPO) and various 50/50 schedules. It is wise for parents to understand the nuances of these options when working through a divorce.
Standard Possession Order (SPO)
The Standard Possession Order is the default schedule set by Texas law for parents who live within 100 miles of each other. It provides a predictable and consistent routine for children, ensuring they have regular contact with both parents. It generally is set up as follows:
- Weekends: The non-custodial parent typically has possession on the first, third, and fifth weekends of each month. The exact start and end times vary depending on how far away the parents live from each other.
- Holidays and summer: The SPO outlines specific arrangements for holidays and summer vacations, allowing parents to alternate major holidays and providing extended time during the summer.
The SPO is often favored for its clarity and structure, making it easier for parents to plan and manage their schedules. However, it may not be suitable for all families.
50/50 schedules
For parents who wish to share custody more equally, 50/50 schedules offer a variety of options. These arrangements require a high level of cooperation and communication between parents, as they involve more frequent exchanges and coordination. Some common examples include:
- Week on/week off: Parents alternate weeks, providing each parent with a full week of custody at a time.
- 2-2-3 schedule: This schedule involves one parent having the children for two days, the other parent for the next two days, and then alternating three-day weekends.
- 3-4-4-3 schedule: One parent has the children for three days, the other for four days, and then the pattern reverses the following week.
50/50 schedules require both parents to live relatively close to each other and maintain a high level of cooperation to ensure the arrangement works smoothly.
It is important for parents to carefully review the benefits and risks with each option before choosing a child custody arrangement they believe will work best for their family. Parents should carefully consider their unique circumstances, including their ability to communicate and cooperate, when deciding on the best arrangement for their family.