The holiday season is a normally a time when families get together and celebrate. It is supposed to be a time of joy where we give thanks, but when two parties are in the process of a divorce or are divorced the holidays can be an extremely difficult time especially when there are children involved. The questions which New Horizons Law, P.A., Michael J. Costantino, Esq. commonly have to address are “how do we split up Thanksgiving Day?” or “who will have kids on Christmas morning?”
In Florida, the Family Law Parenting Plan is designed to take away some of the anxiety that surrounds the holiday time sharing schedule, but in a new divorce case a Parenting Plan is probably not in place. In addition, in post dissolution matters between contentious former spouses, the holiday time sharing schedule is not always followed by one or both parties. New Horizons Law, P.A., Michael J. Costantino, Esq. is experienced in assisting our family law clients have time sharing with their children in both of these scenarios.
Although the holidays present many different issues, being prepared is vital. Too often, New Horizons Law, P.A., Michael J. Costantino, Esq. will have a client contact us a few days before a major holiday and request an emergency hearing because they have an ambiguous time sharing schedule and they are concerned about holiday visitation. It is not usually easy to get into the Family Law Court with such little notice during the holidays.
In reality, you and your former or separated spouse should discuss time sharing schedules well before the holiday season. New Horizons Law, P.A., Michael J. Costantino, Esq. realizes that speaking to your soon to be former spouse might be difficult, but it is easier if you stay focused on the task at hand. However, if you can’t come to terms with your soon to be former spouse on a schedule, then you should contact a Florida Family Law Attorney for assistance immediately. New Horizons Law, P.A., Michael J. Costantino, Esq. is ready to assist you with any issues that may arise regarding holiday visitation.
New Horizons Law, P.A., Michael J. Costantino, Esq. realizes that the holidays are always hectic and that exchanging children can add to this – but your children should not be penalized because you and former spouse can’t get along. Remember that children look forward to holidays so keep a positive attitude. If this is your first holiday season after being separated, it will be tough but your attitude can go a long way in making it easier. Take part in the magical excitement that your kids feel about the holiday season.
Even though you may no longer be married, the two of you are parents to your children. First and foremost, you need to think about your children and their needs. Remember that the holidays can be a great experience for your children if the parents work hard to keep it that way. If the problems get out of hand with your former spouse, you need to speak to an experienced Florida Family Law attorney. Contact New Horizons Law, P.A., Michael J. Costantino, Esq. with any questions that you may have with respect to holiday time sharing issues.