While it feels like it is hotter than July this week, the actual Independence Day holiday will be here before we know it. For most people, it will be a four-day weekend, which can be a little tricky for divorced and separated parents. Dividing a holiday weekend can be especially contentious when parents disagree on exchange times or ambiguities in a parenting time decree. This can sometimes result in a parent being denied parenting time.
So what should a parent to do if he or she is denied parenting time? This post will provide some insight.
Think twice about seeking revenge – Indeed, it is okay to be hurt and feel disrespected, but you will likely make matters worse if you threaten the other parent or have a confrontation in front of the child. The old saying “two wrongs don’t make a right” applies here.
Seek clarification – Sometimes parents can be confused when it comes to merging holiday parenting time with the regular schedule. Since holiday time does not come very often, holiday schedules may take priority. If you are confused, talking with your attorney is a great start.
Learn about compensatory time – If you have the misfortune of being denied parenting time, the most common remedy is compensatory time. Essentially, it is trading other parenting time to replace the lost time. Also, if this is a continuing situation, an aggrieved parent could be awarded additional time at a later date to make up for the time that was missed.
We hope our readers have an enjoyable Fourth of July holiday weekend and that they do not have to experience any parenting time issues. Should you have questions about missed parenting time, an experienced family law attorney can help.
The preceding is not intended to be legal advice.