713-333-4430Paying for Summer Camp When Sharing Custody in Texas Divorce
Summer is upon us, and the thought of creating summer plans can be especially daunting for you as a divorced or single parent. Kids are kept busy all year through school, enrichment and recreation programs, and sports. However, when the temperature kicks up, parents can start to really feel the heat and the pressure from a lack of scheduling in their children’s daily routines.
Summer camps are a fantastic way for parents to get their kids out of the house, off their tablets, and continue building upon old and new skills while still enjoying time off from school and getting to revel in all the activities that come with this sunny season and being a kid. But figuring out who pays for summer camp can be tricky when you’re sharing custody or joint conservatorship, as it’s known in Texas. The costs of camps can add up quickly, and without clear guidelines, this can become a point of contention between co-parents. The following information will guide you through understanding how summer camp expenses can be managed in Texas divorces, ensuring your child has a memorable and enriching summer experience.
Understanding Your Court Order
Effectively managing summer camp costs means closely studying your existing court order. The crucial document spells out the terms of your custody arrangement and might include details pertaining to who handles which extracurricular activities, such as summer camps. However, don’t panic if yours doesn’t specify these details, as many court orders do not automatically address these details, but it’s still critical to learn what is covered.
Texas’ Standard Possession Order doesn’t typically include clauses regarding extracurricular activities or summer camp programming. If your court order is silent on these issues, consider modifying it to include clear guidelines. Doing this can save you and your co-parent a lot of hassle and misunderstandings down the road.
Negotiating Agreements Outside of Court
One of the best ways to handle summer camp expenses is to agree with your co-parent outside of court. Open and honest communication is crucial here. Start by discussing the benefits of the camp, which can help your child develop and enjoy their summer.
Once both parents are on the same page about the significance of camp, you can move on to discussing costs. Some parents opt to split the costs evenly, while others might agree on a different arrangement based on financial circumstances and situations. However, documenting every step and detail of any arrangement reached is paramount. You could choose to keep documentation simple, like email exchanges; however, it’s best to have your child custody law firm look over and formalize an agreement.
Financial Responsibilities and Contributions
The issue of who pays for camp can be a sticky one. Standard child support payments in Texas are intended to cover basic needs, including food, housing, and clothing. Extracurriculars, like camps, are generally seen as additional expenses stretching beyond basic child support.
If you find that your current custody order or divorce decree isn’t working well when it comes to summer camp expenses, you might need to negotiate. Negotiations and modifications commonly utilized by parents include:
Splitting Costs: When possible, a straightforward approach is to split expenses equally between parents. Both parents share the financial burden.
Proportional Contribution: Parents can contribute based on their income levels. For instance, if one parent earns significantly more than the other, they might pay a larger share of the overall summer camp costs.
One Parent Pays: Sometimes, one parent might choose to cover the entire cost, especially if they suggested the camp or if a compromise on another co-parenting issue can be reached in the same negotiation.
Modifying the Custody Agreement
If you find that your current custody agreement isn’t working well when it comes to camp costs, you might need to ultimately seek a modification, which often means filing a petition through the court to change the current terms of your custody agreement. The court will evaluate several factors when deciding whether to approve a modification, including the best interests of the child and the financial situations of both parents. Providing documents supporting the pros of attending camp and accurately and wholly representing the costs for camp can help your case. Working with a child custody attorney during the process is often beneficial. An attorney can help you prepare the necessary documentation and records and present a solid case to the court.
Dealing with Non-Cooperative Co-Parents
Unfortunately, not all co-parents are willing to put forward a cooperative attitude when it comes to additional expenses like summer camp. If your co-parent refuses to contribute or even allow your child to attend, do not stress, as there are a few approaches you can take to this type of situation.
Try to resolve the issue through transparent communication or mediation. A mediator can assist parents in coming to agreements. If this does not work, you may need to seek legal intervention. Your family lawyer can help you enforce the terms of your custody agreement or seek favorable modifications to ensure your child participates in summer camp and does not miss out on the experiences and care they require over the summer break. Remember, the court’s greatest concern is the best interest of the child, and they will consider this when making a decision.
Practical Tips for Managing Summer Camp
Managing summer camp expenses while sharing custody can be streamlined via practical strategies. Planning ahead and discussing summer camp well in advance is best to avoid last-minute disagreements. Aligning expectations and logistics is easier with more time to plan. Keeping records organized and documenting everything, including communications and agreements regarding camp, is also prudent. If a dispute should arise, detailed documentation becomes invaluable later on. It’s also wise to include summer plans in your annual budget. If traditional camps are too pricey, explore more affordable alternatives like community camps, day camps, or programs offered by reputable local organizations, as these may not break the bank in comparison.
Keep focused on what’s best for your child and work with your co-parent to make their summer both fun and enriching.
Getting Help for Custody and Summer Camp Issues
If you’re struggling with summer camp expenses or other custody-related issues, our experienced child custody law firm is here to help with years of expertise. Our custody lawyers can help with negotiation agreements, modifying court orders, and ensuring compliance with your custody arrangement. Contact us today at 713-333-4430 to schedule a consultation and learn how we can help you and your family navigate these challenges. Building an enjoyable and wonderful summer for your child shouldn’t be a battle. With the right approach and legal support, you can make it a seamless part of your co-parenting journey.
Shannon L. Boudreaux is a passionate advocate for her clients, working on their behalf to help them reshape their lives, their families, and their futures. For two decades, she has helped reunite parents with their children and helped clients negotiate contentious custody disputes. Learn more here.
