Custody and the Holidays in Texas: What You Need to Know

The holiday season can be a joyful time for families—but for parents navigating a custody order, it can also be filled with confusion, conflict, and emotional strain. Here’s what you need to know about how Texas law handles holiday visitation, and what you can do if problems arise.

How Does Texas Handle Holiday Possession?

In most cases, Texas courts follow a Standard Possession Order (SPO). The SPO outlines a default holiday schedule for Thanksgiving, Christmas, and other major holidays.

• Thanksgiving is alternated each year. One parent gets the child from the time school lets out until the evening of the Sunday after Thanksgiving.

  
  

• Christmas is split into two parts:

  
  

  • Part 1: From school dismissal until noon on December 28

  • Part 2: From noon on December 28 until school resumes after winter break

    
    

• Parents alternate these parts every year.

If your court order deviates from the SPO or includes custom provisions, those will govern.

What If There’s No School Calendar?

Even if your child is not in public school, courts generally use the school calendar of the local independent school district (ISD) where the child resides to calculate pickup and drop-off times.

Common Holiday Custody Issues

• One parent refuses to comply with the order

• No written order exists (informal agreement only)

• The order is outdated or unclear

• Disputes over travel, out-of-town visitation, or extended family involvement

If any of these sound familiar, it may be time to revisit or enforce your custody order.

Can I Get My Order Modified Before the Holidays?

Yes. If your circumstances have materially changed, or if the current order is unworkable, you can file a Motion to Modify. While courts may not grant a full trial before the holidays, you may be able to seek temporary orders or reach a settlement through mediation.

Can I File for Emergency Relief?

If the other parent is threatening to withhold the child during the holidays or there there are serious safety concerns, emergency relief may be available. This could include temporary restraining orders (TROs), enforcement actions, or supervised visitation.

What If the Other Parent Won’t Follow the Order?

You can file a Motion to Enforce the order. Texas courts take violations of custody orders seriously, especially during sensitive times like the holidays.

Tips for a Smoother Holiday Custody Experience

1. Communicate Early: Clarify dates, times, and travel plans well in advance.

2. Follow the Order: Stick to the court-ordered schedule unless you both agree in writing.

3. Document Issues: Keep records of violations, messages, and any incidents.

4. Don’t Involve the Kids in Conflict: Keep transitions calm and child-focused.

5. Be Flexible When Appropriate: If it doesn’t hurt the child and both sides agree, flexibility can help.

How DDC Law, PLLC Can Help

We represent West Texas parents in custody modifications, enforcement actions, emergency filings, and more. Whether you need urgent help or want to plan ahead, we’re ready to step in.

• Flat-fee options available for many matters

• Free phone consultations

• Fast filings in Midland, Ector, and surrounding counties

Don’t let a broken custody arrangement ruin your holidays.

Call us today at 432.222.5910 or visit www.ddclawpllc.com to schedule a free case review.