The Texas Standard Possession Order outlines a typical schedule for parents sharing custody of a child, dictating when each parent has physical possession. This schedule varies depending on whether the parents live less than 50 miles apart or more than 100 miles apart, and also includes provisions for holidays and summer vacations. For example, in a typical scenario with parents living within 50 miles of each other, the non-custodial parent might have possession on the first, third, and fifth weekends of the month, along with alternating holidays.
This standardized approach provides predictability and stability for children, minimizing disruption to their routines and fostering a sense of consistency. It also reduces conflict between parents by offering a clear framework for possession and access, preempting potential disagreements. The Texas legislature established these guidelines to ensure the best interests of children are prioritized in custody arrangements. Regular and predictable time with both parents is generally considered beneficial for a child’s emotional and social development.
