One of the most important parts of a custody agreement in Texas is the visitation schedule—often called a “possession and access schedule.” This schedule outlines when each parent has physical time with the child and helps provide consistency, stability, and fairness.
At The Eggleston Law Firm, we help parents in Austin and Central Texas navigate custody schedules in a way that prioritizes the child’s well-being and supports healthy co-parenting.
Texas Standard Possession Order (SPO)
In Texas, the Standard Possession Order (SPO) is the default visitation schedule the court uses when parents can’t agree. It’s typically applied when parents live within 100 miles of each other and provides:
- 1st, 3rd, and 5th weekends of the month
- Thursday evenings during the school year
- Alternating holidays
- Extended time in the summer
The SPO works well for many families, but it’s not one-size-fits-all. Parents can agree to modify or customize the schedule based on their child’s needs and each parent’s availability.
Customizing a Fair Visitation Schedule
If both parents are committed to creating a schedule that works for everyone, they can propose an alternate plan to the court. Factors to consider include:
- Each parent’s work schedule
- The child’s school, extracurriculars, and routine
- Distance between households
- The child’s age and emotional needs
Custom plans might include:
- Alternating weeks with each parent
- 2-2-3 schedules (two days with one parent, two with the other, then alternating weekends)
- Extended weekends or longer holiday periods depending on work schedules
What matters most is that the schedule is clear, consistent, and focused on the child’s best interests.
When Parents Live Far Apart
If parents live more than 100 miles apart, Texas courts may use a Modified SPO, which adjusts for travel time and reduces frequent exchanges. In these cases, the non-custodial parent may get:
- One weekend per month
- Longer holiday and summer periods
Courts aim to maintain meaningful relationships with both parents, even when distance is a challenge.
Tips for Successful Co-Parenting
Creating a fair visitation schedule is only part of the parenting puzzle. For the schedule to work long-term, co-parents should also focus on:
- Open and respectful communication
- Using shared calendars or parenting apps
- Being flexible when needed (while still respecting the court order)
- Avoiding negative talk about the other parent in front of the child
When both parents are committed to working together, even the most complex custody arrangements can run smoothly.
Work With an Experienced Austin Family Law Attorney
Whether you’re working through a divorce, separation, or modifying an existing agreement, it’s wise to get help from a knowledgeable family law attorney. At The Eggelston Law Firm, we’ve helped families across Austin and Central Texas create fair, enforceable visitation schedules that reflect their unique needs.
We’ll help you:
- Understand your rights under Texas law
- Draft a proposed schedule that puts your child first
- Present your case effectively in court, if needed
Additional Resources :
Standard Possision Order Video FAQ
FAQs About Visitation Schedules in Texas
You and your co-parent can create a customized schedule. As long as it’s in the child’s best interest, the court may approve it.
Yes, visitation orders can be modified. You’ll need to show that circumstances have changed significantly and that the new plan benefits the child.
The other parent can file a motion to enforce the order. Courts in Texas take visitation orders seriously.
In some cases, yes. Texas courts may consider a child’s preference if they are 12 years or older, though the final decision rests with the judge.
If you’re creating or modifying a child visitation schedule in Austin or anywhere in Central Texas, the team at The Eggleston Law Firm is here to help. We understand the emotional and legal complexity of custody issues—and we’re ready to help you create a schedule that’s fair, clear, and centered on your child’s well-being.
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