If you're a divorced parent in Texas, you're probably familiar with the Standard Possession Order (SPO) – a court-ordered schedule that outlines when each parent gets to spend time with their child. The SPO can be a bit confusing, especially if you're new to the process or if your child custody agreement is unique. In this article, we'll break down the 2024 Texas Standard Possession Calendar and answer some common questions about how it works.
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
Introduction
If you're a divorced parent in Texas, you're probably familiar with the Standard Possession Order (SPO) – a court-ordered schedule that outlines when each parent gets to spend time with their child. The SPO can be a bit confusing, especially if you're new to the process or if your child custody agreement is unique. In this article, we'll break down the 2024 Texas Standard Possession Calendar and answer some common questions about how it works.
What is the Standard Possession Order?
The Standard Possession Order is a schedule that determines when each parent gets to spend time with their child. It's designed to be fair and consistent, and it's used by most courts in Texas. The SPO outlines specific periods of possession for holidays, weekends, and summer break.
How does the SPO work?
The SPO is based on a rotating schedule that alternates weekends between the two parents. The non-custodial parent typically gets the first, third, and fifth weekends of each month, while the custodial parent gets the second and fourth weekends. The SPO also includes provisions for holidays, such as Thanksgiving, Christmas, and spring break.
What is the 2024 Texas Standard Possession Calendar?
The 2024 Texas Standard Possession Calendar is a schedule that outlines the specific days and times for possession in 2024. It's important to note that the calendar is subject to change, and you should always check with your attorney or the court to confirm the most up-to-date schedule.
2024 Texas Standard Possession Calendar: Key Dates
Here are some of the key dates on the 2024 Texas Standard Possession Calendar:
- New Year's Day: The non-custodial parent gets possession from 6 PM on December 30, 2023, to 6 PM on January 2, 2024.
- Spring Break: The non-custodial parent gets possession from 6 PM on the Friday before spring break to 6 PM on the day before school resumes.
- Easter: The custodial parent gets possession from 6 PM on the Thursday before Easter to 6 PM on Easter Sunday.
- Memorial Day: The non-custodial parent gets possession from 6 PM on the Friday before Memorial Day to 6 PM on the following Monday.
- Independence Day: The custodial parent gets possession from 6 PM on July 3 to 10 PM on July 4.
- Labor Day: The non-custodial parent gets possession from 6 PM on the Friday before Labor Day to 6 PM on the following Monday.
- Thanksgiving: The non-custodial parent gets possession from 6 PM on the day the child is dismissed from school for Thanksgiving break to 6 PM on the following Sunday. The custodial parent gets possession from 6 PM on that Sunday to 6 PM on the day before school resumes.
- Christmas: The non-custodial parent gets possession from 6 PM on December 22 to noon on December 28. The custodial parent gets possession from noon on December 28 to 6 PM on December 31.
Question and Answer
Q: Can the Standard Possession Order be modified?
A: Yes, the Standard Possession Order can be modified if both parents agree to the changes or if the court determines that a modification is in the best interest of the child. However, modifications are generally only granted if there has been a significant change in circumstances since the original order was entered.
Q: What happens if one parent violates the Standard Possession Order?
A: If one parent violates the Standard Possession Order, the other parent can file a motion for enforcement with the court. The court can then order the violating parent to comply with the order and may impose sanctions, such as fines or even jail time, if the violation was willful and intentional.
Q: What if the parents live far apart from each other?
A: If the parents live far apart from each other, the court may modify the Standard Possession Order to accommodate the distance. For example, the non-custodial parent may get longer periods of possession during school breaks to make up for the distance. Alternatively, the parents may agree to a different schedule that works better for their situation.
Conclusion
The 2024 Texas Standard Possession Calendar can be a bit overwhelming, but it's an important document for divorced parents in Texas. By understanding how the SPO works and what the key dates are, you can better plan your time with your child and avoid any potential conflicts with your co-parent. If you have any questions or concerns about the SPO, be sure to speak with your attorney or the court to get the information you need.
