Divorcing parents in North Carolina should consider writing summer vacation plans into their parenting plan. This is usually a time of change. Children may take on more activities, and even child support obligations might shift. Planning ahead is the best way to avoid conflict over these issues. The age of the child is one factor that will affect the summer vacation plans. Parenting plans sometimes require each parent to give 60 days’ notice regarding summer vacation.
However, despite this planning, parents may still run into some miscommunication. It is best to try to cooperate as much as possible. Mediation can help iron out difficulties if parents cannot agree between themselves. It is never appropriate or legal to withhold child support due to disputes.
If mediation is also not successful, parents can turn to litigation. Visitation interference can also be reported to police as a last resort. However, parents should work to try to ensure that the disagreement does not spiral out of control to this degree if possible. Visitation apps can help parents keep track of changes, and a detailed parenting plan can help prevent misunderstandings.
During a divorce, parents and courts tend to be united in working toward the best interests of the child. Parents should keep in mind that a low-conflict divorce is usually in the child’s best interests. However, it is important to balance this with the child’s actual needs and situation. If child custody and visitation can be negotiated, this is preferable, but people should not feel like they have to give in on points that are important to them simply to avoid conflict. An attorney may be helpful in separating facts from emotions and developing a strategy that works toward the interests of both the parent client and the children.