Divorce Court during the Holiday Season

By Sheryl Rentz on December 20, 2010

With the Christmas season now in full swing, it is also unfortunately the season for divorcing couples to argue over who should get their kids for the holiday. This month’s festivities can already be very emotional for a person who is facing divorce in Pennsylvania, and figuring out how to reasonably divide the holidays with your children and a soon-to-be ex-spouse can be especially trying.

A recent article from The Huffington Post notes that divorce attorneys at this time are often forced to file emergency motions asking a judge to settle disputes between divorcing couples over who will have their children on Christmas Day if neither will budge on their stance.

While every person’s situation varies, if you do find yourself in Pennsylvania divorce court this holiday season to resolve a child visitation dispute, there are some things you can expect.

Typically, judges will adhere to the visitation agreements that are already in existence. One of the biggest parts of a divorce is child custody, and a good attorney will draw up a holiday visit schedule, in writing, before a Pennsylvania divorce is completed. Also, you should not expect to “win” a holiday visit over your soon-to-be ex-spouse. Judges will usually make their decision based on whatever is best for the kids, so you should avoid making promises about parties or vacations to your children before a judge makes their ruling. Holiday conflicts can be very emotional and difficult, particularly for kids.

Everyone deserves to have a merry holiday season, even if they are going through a Pennsylvania divorce. You should try your best to avoid divorce court during this time, but it may be unavoidable, depending on circumstances.

If you are going through a divorce in Pennsylvania, or if you are considering divorcing, you may have questions regarding the divorce process and your child custody or visitation rights. The Pennsylvania child custody attorneys at The Law Offices of Sheryl R. Rentz can answer any questions you may have about Pennsylvania’s laws regarding divorce, child custody and your visitation rights. Call us today at 610-645-0100 to learn more about child custody and visitation rights in Pennsylvania during or after a Pennsylvania divorce.