Will a Judge Order Alternating Holidays in a Parenting Plan If the Other Parent Has Been Absent for Seven Years?

Author : Jeanette Soltys

When one parent has been absent from a child’s life for many years, the question of whether they should be granted holiday parenting time—especially alternating holidays—can be deeply emotional and legally complex. In Georgia, the ultimate standard the court uses to decide these matters is always the best interest of the child.

The Judge’s Role in Parenting Plans

Georgia family law does not follow a one-size-fits-all rule when it comes to parenting plans. Judges are given wide discretion to tailor parenting schedules based on:

• The child’s emotional, physical, and developmental needs

• Each parent’s relationship with the child

• The history of parental involvement—or lack thereof

• The ability of each parent to support the child’s well-being

Even with the same facts, different judges may craft different parenting plans. That’s why local experience and knowing your judge’s typical preferences can be so important.

What Happens When a Parent Has Been Absent?

If the other parent has had no contact or meaningful relationship with the children for several years—like seven years or more—judges in Georgia rarely leap straight into a traditional 50/50 parenting time schedule, including alternating holidays. Instead, what we commonly see is the court implementing a “stepped-up” parenting plan.

What Is a Stepped-Up Parenting Plan?

A stepped-up plan allows the absent parent to reintroduce themselves into the child’s life gradually. This often starts with:

• Supervised or limited parenting time

• Short visits (daytime only, no overnights at first)

• Parenting classes or therapy (in some cases)

As trust is rebuilt and the child becomes more comfortable, parenting time may increase. Eventually, the goal may be to transition to a more standard parenting plan, including alternating holidays—but only if it becomes clearly beneficial for the child.

Factors Judges Consider Before Allowing Holiday Time

Before granting an absent parent alternating holidays, judges will often evaluate:

• The child’s age and attachment

• Whether the child remembers or feels safe with the absent parent

• The reason for the parent’s absence

• The parent’s current efforts to reengage and support the child

In many cases, judges will delay any major holiday visitation rights until the parent has shown commitment and consistency through the initial steps of the plan.

Tailored Support for Complex Custody Cases

At Atlanta Holistic Family Law, we understand that no two families—or parenting histories—are alike. Through our child custody services , we advocate for parenting plans that truly serve your child’s best interest while recognizing the emotional realities of parental absence and reunion.

We help our clients navigate these sensitive cases with empathy, clarity, and strategic care.

Schedule a discovery call to learn how we can support you.