If you're a parent navigating custody and visitation in Texas, two dates you may be overlooking could have a major impact on your time with your children: April 1 and April 15.

At the Barina Law Group in Temple, Texas, we regularly help parents understand how these deadlines shape their rights—and missing them can mean losing valuable time with your child.

Why April 1 Matters for the Non-Custodial Parent

Did you know?
April 1 is often the deadline for a non-custodial parent to designate their extended summer possession.

Under a Standard Possession Order in Texas:

• The non-custodial parent typically gets 30 days in the summer
• But to choose specific dates, written notice must be given by April 1

⚠️ What Happens If You Miss April 1?

If you don't designate your summer dates:

• The default schedule applies (usually July 1–31)
• You lose control over your preferred time
• This can conflict with:
  • Work schedules
  • Travel plans
  • Family events

👉 In other words, you still get time—but not on your terms

Why April 15 Matters for the Custodial Parent

Did you know?
April 15 is the deadline for the custodial parent to designate a weekend (or weekends) that override the other parent's summer visitation.

This allows the primary parent to:

• Reclaim certain weekends during the summer period
• Maintain important routines or family events
• Coordinate camps, vacations, or childcare

⚠️ Missing April 15 Can Limit Your Control

If the custodial parent does not act:

• They may lose the ability to:
  • Interrupt extended summer possession
  • Protect key dates
• The non-custodial parent's schedule remains intact

Why These Deadlines Matter More Than You Think

These are not just technical rules—they directly affect:

• Your time with your child
• Your ability to plan your life
• Your relationship with your child during the summer

In high-conflict cases, these deadlines can also:

• Reduce disputes
• Prevent last-minute arguments
• Provide clarity and structure

Common Mistakes Parents Make

At the Barina Law Group, we see these issues every year:

• ❌ Waiting too long to send notice
• ❌ Not putting it in writing
• ❌ Sending unclear or incomplete dates
• ❌ Assuming flexibility from the other parent

👉 The court order controls—not assumptions.

What You Should Do Right Now

If you are a parent in Texas:

✔️ Before April 1:

• Decide your summer dates
• Send written notice (email or certified mail)

✔️ Before April 15:

• Review the other parent's designation
• Choose any weekend overrides if allowed

How the Barina Law Group Can Help

At the Barina Law Group in Temple, Texas, we help parents:

• Understand their custody orders
• Enforce visitation rights
• Modify schedules when needed
• Avoid costly mistakes

📍 Serving Temple, Belton, Killeen, and all of Central Texas

📞 Call today to schedule a consultation:
(254) 699-3755
🌐 www.bobbybarinalaw.com