The Fourth of July holiday weekend represents the height of the summer for kids. If you are a parent, expect pleas to go to Six Flags, the Funplex or simply to the mall or the movies. However, if you are in the midst of a dispute with the other parent, it may be tempting to cut him or her from your life, if only for a temporary basis so that tensions can cool.

However, this strategy may not be the best option for you. This post will identify a few reasons why, and offer some tips to help you avoid further difficulties. 

It may support a pattern – Withholding parenting time may be indicative of a pattern of behavior that can turn family court judges off. If your judge believes that you are less likely to follow future court orders because of how you may feel about the other parent, a judge may be reluctant to award custody and/or parenting time.

It may be confusing to kids – Children will wonder and start asking questions about where the other parent is and why they may not be able to see him or her. After all, holidays are about sharing time with both parents.

So if you are tempted to go on an impromptu vacation because you are seething over a situation with your spouse or significant other, it may be worth contacting a family law attorney for a quick understanding of what your rights and risks are, especially if there is an established court order in place.

The preceding is not intended to be viewed as legal advice.

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