Texas Expanded Standard Possession Calendar 2024

What is the Expanded Standard Possession Calendar?

The Expanded Standard Possession Calendar, or ESPC, is a legal document that outlines the visitation schedule for non-custodial parents in Texas. This calendar is used when parents cannot agree on a visitation schedule and need the court to intervene. The ESPC provides a standard schedule that can be used in most cases, but it can also be modified to fit the specific needs of the family.

What Changes Have Been Made to the 2024 ESPC?

The Texas legislature recently made changes to the ESPC that will take effect in 2024. The new calendar includes longer periods of possession for non-custodial parents during certain holidays, including Thanksgiving and Christmas. These changes are designed to provide more time for parents to spend with their children and to reduce conflicts between parents.

New Possession Schedule for Thanksgiving

Under the new ESPC, non-custodial parents will have possession of their children for the entire Thanksgiving holiday, from 6:00 p.m. on the day before Thanksgiving until 6:00 p.m. on the Sunday following Thanksgiving. This is an increase from the previous possession schedule, which only allowed for possession on the actual holiday.

New Possession Schedule for Christmas

The new ESPC also includes a longer possession period for non-custodial parents during the Christmas holiday. Under the new schedule, non-custodial parents will have possession of their children from 6:00 p.m. on the day the children are dismissed from school for winter break until noon on December 28th. This is an increase from the previous possession schedule, which only allowed for possession from noon on December 24th until noon on December 28th.

How Will These Changes Affect Families?

The changes to the ESPC are designed to provide more time for non-custodial parents to spend with their children during the holidays. This can be especially important for parents who live far apart and may not be able to see their children as often as they would like. However, the new schedule may also create additional conflicts between parents who have difficulty agreeing on visitation schedules. It is important for parents to communicate and work together to create a schedule that works for everyone involved.

What If I Need to Modify My ESPC?

If you need to modify your ESPC, you will need to file a request with the court. The court will review your request and make a decision based on the best interests of the child. It is important to work with an experienced family law attorney to ensure that your request is properly filed and that your rights as a parent are protected.

Conclusion

The changes to the Texas Expanded Standard Possession Calendar for 2024 are designed to provide more time for non-custodial parents to spend with their children during the holidays. While these changes may create additional conflicts between parents, it is important to work together to create a schedule that works for everyone involved. If you need to modify your ESPC, it is important to seek the advice of an experienced family law attorney.