This is the next post in my series on child custody and visitation issues Nevada parents frequently encounter in the summer time. My last post provided a general overview of the topics I will be discussing in the next few posts. Today, I will be addressing frequent issues that often emerge when a child must travel outside of Nevada to visit their noncustodial parent for the summer.
Clark County courts will order extended summer visitation for parents who live outside of Nevada
Nevada is a transient state for many people; between the air force base, the Las Vegas show scene, and the casino industry, many people move to Nevada for work purposes from other states. However, following a divorce it is not uncommon for one partner to move back to another state to utilize support from family members. When children are involved, this may create a situation in which regular visitation is not feasible. To preserve a child’s relationship with their noncustodial parents, the courts will often grant extended visitation in the summertime for the parent who lives outside of the state.
When a child must travel a significant distance to visit their other parent, inevitable questions come up. One of the most common questions parents wish to know is who is responsible for paying the costs of travel. The answer will depend on each parent’s financial situation and which parent relocated away from the family. The courts will sometimes ask parents to share the travel costs, and other times require one parent to pick up the entire expense. If the financial details were not specifically spelled out in the original decree, it is often a good idea to go back to court and ask for a modification that specifies which parent is responsible for what cost. If your child requires air travel in order to reach the other parent it is also a good idea to specify if the child will travel alone or needs to be supervised. Children as young as five are permitted to fly independently and will be assigned an escort by the airline. If you and your ex-partner cannot agree on the details of travel arrangements, immediately asking the court to step in and make the decision will save a great deal of time, money, and aggravation.
Scheduled communications with your child over the summer is key to staying in touch
For the custodial parent who is used to being with their child every day, enduring a long stretch while they are away can be difficult. The child custody order will typically include a plan for communication between the custodial parent and child, while the child is visiting their other parent for the summer. Scheduled phone calls or Skype calls help ensure that the custodial parent maintains their bond throughout the summer months. Scheduling calls on consistent days and at convenient times help prevent either party from missing an appointment and avoids arguments. Before your child leaves for the summer, discuss with them the importance of keeping your phone calls and make a plan to reschedule appointments in advance if necessary.
Extended summertime visitation can be difficult on parents, however, with planning the transition can go smoothly. If an unforeseen problem arises early during the summertime visitation it is important to immediately deal with the issue. If you are facing difficulty with your summertime visitation contact our office today.
