Going through a divorce can have an impact on all involved, but especially your children. As such, understanding how to make this change easier for your children is important. One option you may not be familiar with is a nesting arrangement. If you’re interested in learning about this custody option, you’ll want to keep reading, as the following blog explores what you should know. Additionally, you’ll learn how Long Island child custody lawyers can assist you in implementation.
How Does a Nesting Arrangement Work?
During a traditional custody arrangement, one, if not both, of the parents will move out of the family home and into a new location. When it is their turn to have custody as per the order implemented by the court, the children will live with one parent until it is the other’s turn for custody, at which time the children will go to live with their other parent.
However, divorce can be a difficult time for children. Not only are they navigating the change of dynamic in their home life, but it can be difficult to move from location to location constantly. As such, there is an alternate option – nesting arrangements.
This option centers around the children remaining in one central location while the parents take turns living in the home with the children. For example, Spouse A would have custody of the children and live in the “nest” for one week, and then switch with Spouse B when it is their week for custody. In the period where a spouse does not have custody, they may return to an apartment or stay with friends or family.
It’s important to understand that, in many instances, nesting is not intended to be a permanent arrangement. It can be expensive as you are paying for two separate locations. However, this can help ease children into the divorce, making the transition much smoother.
How Can My Ex and I Help This Succeed?
If you are interested in establishing a nesting arrangement as part of your custody order, it’s imperative to understand that there are steps you can take to help this succeed. Discussing various situations and establishing guidelines with your ex-spouse can help ensure that this process is as beneficial as possible.
Generally, one of the most important discussions you should have to ensure the success of this arrangement is to discuss how you intend to handle new partners. For example, you both may agree that no new partners should enter the nest or are not allowed to stay the night. Or, you may both agree that new partners can enter the home, but only after they have been introduced to the other spouse.
Additionally, you should discuss how you would like to handle matters related to household chores and maintenance. Creating a chore schedule can help ensure both parents understand their responsibilities to avoid feeling as though the other is not contributing.
As you can see, a nesting arrangement can be an incredibly beneficial option for some. If you are interested in pursuing this choice, you should connect with an experienced attorney at Sklavos Law Firm to discuss your legal options. Our team understands how important these matters are to you, which is why we will do everything possible to assist you through these matters. Contact us today to learn how we can assist you.