The standard possession schedule in Texas is a set of guidelines for determining how much time a child will spend with each parent following a divorce or separation. These guidelines are designed to ensure that the child has regular and meaningful contact with both parents, and that the parents are able to make important decisions about the child’s upbringing.
One of the key elements of the standard possession schedule in Texas is the concept of “possession.” Possession refers to the time that a child spends with each parent, and can include both overnight stays and daytime visits. Under the standard possession schedule, the non-custodial parent (the parent who does not have primary custody of the child) is typically entitled to possession of the child on the first, third, and fifth weekends of each month, as well as on Thursday evenings during the school year.
In addition to these regular weekend and Thursday visits, the standard possession schedule also provides for extended periods of possession during certain holidays and school breaks. For example, the non-custodial parent may have possession of the child for a portion of the summer, as well as during spring break and Christmas break.
One of the key benefits of the standard possession schedule is that it provides a clear and consistent schedule for both parents to follow. This can help to reduce conflict and uncertainty, and can make it easier for both parents to plan their own lives and schedules. Additionally, the standard possession schedule can help to ensure that the child has regular and meaningful contact with both parents, which can be important for their emotional and psychological well-being.
However, it’s important to note that the standard possession schedule is just a guideline, and that it may not always be appropriate for every family. For example, if one parent lives far away from the child, or if the child has special needs that require a different schedule, the court may deviate from the standard possession schedule and create a schedule that is more tailored to the unique needs of the family.
In conclusion, the standard possession schedule in Texas is a set of guidelines that are designed to ensure that the child has regular and meaningful contact with both parents, and that the parents are able to make important decisions about the child’s upbringing. While the standard possession schedule can be beneficial for many families, it’s important to remember that it is just a guideline and that the court may deviate from it if it is not appropriate for a particular family’s situation.