Navigating Custody Over Summer Break: A Michigan Parent’s Guide

For many families, summer brings a welcome break from school schedules. However, this period for co-parents often introduces unexpected challenges: questions about vacations, parenting time, and shifting routines.

Whether you are recently separated or have been co-parenting in Michigan for years, it helps to approach summer co-parenting with clear communication as well as a firm understanding of your rights and responsibilities under Michigan law. 

What Does Michigan Law Say About Custody and Parenting Time Rights During the Summer Months?

In Michigan, parenting time schedules can vary significantly from one family to another. Some court orders maintain a consistent schedule throughout the year. Others outline alternative schedules for summer break, including alternating weeks, extended weekend parenting time, or a specific designated vacation allotment. Some Orders require prior notification of an intent to exercise summer parenting time. A close read of the requirements of your parenting time Order will help you fully understand your rights and obligations when it comes to the time you will spend with your children during our beautiful summers.

If your current order presents challenges to the full enjoyment of this time with your children, the attorneys at Wilson Kester – the Empowered Divorce Source, are here to help you interpret, enforce and perhaps even improve upon your Order when it comes to time with your kids this summer.

Planning Vacations in Advance

Travel and vacation plans are a common source of stress for co-parents. A good rule of thumb is to provide advance notice and share relevant details about your trip. This includes travel dates, flight information, general accommodation information, and emergency contact information. If stalking is a concern, let’s talk. We can help you develop solutions that keep your safe and still respect the co-parenting relationship and compliance with your court order.

Michigan parenting time orders often contain restrictions on out-of-country travel. Depending on your custody order, you may also need to inform or obtain permission from your co-parent for out of country travel.

If you are uncertain about your obligations, or whether a planned trip is permitted, our team is ready to offer guidance and prevent potential conflicts that may bring you back to court, rather than being able to fully enjoy your summer.

Supporting Children Through Summer Transitions

Summer often brings significant changes in routine, location, and available caregivers for your children. While this flexibility can be exciting, it can also be hard on children. This is especially true for children who have thrived in the structured environment provided during the school year.

Consider creating a calendar with your child to help them visualize their summer schedule. Have open, age-appropriate conversations with your children regarding these transitions to help them mentally prepare. It is also important to maintain a positive tone and disposition when discussing summer schedules with your co-parent. Children benefit when both parents are supportive of their relationship with the other parent.

If your child is struggling with the transition to their summer schedule, and your current arrangement no longer seems to meet their needs, Wilson Kester can help. We can assist you in evaluating whether or not an adjustment or court modification is appropriate and what is involved. We can also help you prepare a proposed modification to your current order that will be an enforceable memorialization of your agreement.

Modifying Summer Schedules When Necessary

If your summer plans no longer align with your court-ordered parenting schedule, and the other parent does not agree to a change, you may need to seek a formal modification. Michigan courts allow for changes to parenting time when there has been a significant change in circumstances and the modification would serve the best interests of the child. A lower burden of proof, however, is necessary, if the proposed change does not alter the established custodial environment (custody) of a child. Michigan favors a strong relationship between children and both parents as a matter of public policy.

Our attorneys are especially qualified in crafting parenting time modifications that reflect a family’s changing needs while minimizing potential conflict. We can assist you in understanding what the court requires, prepare the necessary court paperwork, and advocate for you and your child’s best interests.

When Conflict Interrupts Summer Co-Parenting Plans

Parenting disputes can feel more urgent in summer, especially when they interfere with vacations or meaningful time with your child. If the other parent refuses to follow the parenting schedule, withholds information, or places your child in an unsafe situation, you may need to take action protective action.

At Wilson Kester, we handle high-conflict parenting situations with a calm, strategic approach. We can help you enforce your existing parenting time, seek emergency relief if needed, or take the necessary steps to protect your child’s wellbeing. With over 127 years of navigating Co-Parenting in Michigan, our team is especially qualified to navigate high-conflict situations. 

Wilson Kester Is Here to Help You Navigate Summer Custody

We know that summer parenting time can be emotionally and legally complex. Our team helps parents across Michigan gain clarity, reduce stress, and focus on what matters most.

Whether you need a one-time consultation or full legal representation, we’re here when you’re ready.

Call us today at 231-922-6800 or schedule your free 30-minute case assessment here!

Your Family. Your Future. Our Fight.
Wilson Kester the Empowered Divorce Source