Many parents assume that holiday weekends automatically follow the same parent-time schedule used during the school year.
In Utah, that is usually not the case.
Holiday weekends, including Memorial Day, are often treated differently than normal weekly parenting schedules. Custody orders and Utah’s statutory parent-time guidelines typically include special holiday provisions that override the regular schedule.
Understanding how Memorial Day weekend parent-time works can help parents plan ahead and avoid confusion.
If you have questions about parent-time schedules in Utah, you can speak with a Salt Lake City child custody lawyer at Brown Family Law.
Holiday Parent-Time Usually Overrides the Normal Schedule
Utah provides a statutory parent-time schedule that courts often use when parents do not create their own parenting plan.
This schedule includes specific provisions for holidays and school breaks, such as:
- Memorial Day
- Fourth of July
- Labor Day
- Thanksgiving
- Christmas
- Spring break and other school holidays
Holiday schedules generally take priority over the regular weekly parent-time schedule.
This means that even if a parent normally has parenting time on certain days of the week, the holiday schedule may temporarily replace that routine.
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Memorial Day Weekend Often Alternates Between Parents
Under Utah’s standard parent-time framework, Memorial Day weekend typically alternates between parents each year.
For example:
- One parent may have Memorial Day weekend in even-numbered years
- The other parent may have the holiday in odd-numbered years
This alternating approach helps ensure that both parents have the opportunity to spend the holiday weekend with their children over time.
However, exact arrangements may vary depending on the custody order or parenting plan approved by the court.
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When Memorial Day Parent-Time Begins and Ends
Memorial Day parent-time typically covers the entire holiday weekend.
In many parenting plans, this period begins on Friday after school or in the early evening and ends on Monday evening on Memorial Day.
The exact pickup and return times should be outlined in the custody order or parenting plan.
Clear schedules help parents avoid misunderstandings about when the holiday parent-time begins and ends.
Memorial Day Parent-Time May Override Weekend Visits
Because holiday schedules take priority, Memorial Day weekend may replace normal weekend parent-time.
For example, if one parent normally has weekend parent-time but the other parent is assigned Memorial Day weekend that year, the holiday schedule generally takes precedence.
Once the holiday ends, the regular parenting schedule resumes.
Travel and Holiday Plans
Memorial Day weekend often marks the beginning of summer activities for many families.
If a parent has the holiday that year, they may generally use that time for family gatherings, travel, or other activities with the child.
However, some custody orders require:
- Advance notice for travel
- Sharing travel plans with the other parent
- Providing emergency contact information
These provisions help ensure both parents remain informed about the child’s well-being.
Parenting Plans May Use Different Arrangements
While Utah provides a standard parent-time schedule, many parents create custom parenting plans tailored to their family’s needs.
Some parenting plans may handle Memorial Day differently by:
- Splitting the weekend between parents
- Coordinating schedules with extended family events
- Combining Memorial Day with other summer parenting arrangements
Courts typically approve customized plans as long as they support the best interests of the child.
When Parents Disagree About Holiday Schedules
Holiday weekends can sometimes lead to disagreements if parents interpret their custody order differently.
When this happens, the first step is usually to review the:
- Divorce decree
- Custody order
- Parenting plan
These documents typically specify how holidays such as Memorial Day should be handled.
If the language is unclear or circumstances have changed, parents may need to consider updating their parenting plan.
Why Clear Parenting Plans Matter
Holiday schedules often become points of confusion if custody orders are not clearly written.
A well-structured parenting plan usually addresses:
- Which parent receives Memorial Day each year
- Exact pickup and return times
- Travel notification requirements
- Transportation responsibilities
Clear provisions reduce conflict and help families plan holidays more easily.
Most importantly, predictable schedules provide stability for children.
Speak With a Utah Family Law Attorney
Parent-time schedules are designed to help children maintain meaningful relationships with both parents while providing structure throughout the year.
If you have questions about Memorial Day parent-time or need help modifying a custody arrangement, an experienced attorney can help clarify your options.
To discuss your situation, contact Brown Family Law to schedule a consultation with a Utah family law attorney.
