For children, divorce can be an uncertain and tumultuous time. However, there are steps you can take to help ease the disruption. One option is to consider implementing a nesting arrangement. If you’re unsure what nesting arrangements are or what their benefits are, you’ll want to keep reading. The following blog explores what you should know, including the importance of working with a Long Island child custody lawyer to explore your options.
How Do Nesting Arrangements Work?
When a couple who shares a child divorces or ends their relationship, the traditional joint custody path requires one or both parents to move from the family home. When mom has custody, the child will live with them, before traveling to their other parent’s house when it is dad’s turn to have custody. However, this can be difficult for children who may already have trouble processing the changes in their family dynamic. As such, they may find moving between homes on a regular basis to be disruptive.
With a nesting arrangement, however, the children remain in one central location while the parents take turns moving in and out of the home based on the custody schedule. For example, when it is mom’s turn to have custody, she will remain in the home and take care of the children until it is dad’s turn, at which point she will leave the home while he spends time with the kids.
It’s important to understand that nesting is often not intended to act as a permanent solution. It can be incredibly expensive, as you’re not only sharing the cost of the nesting location, but you and your ex each have to pay for accommodations when it is not your custody time. As such, many families use this option as a way to ease the divorce transition for their children.
What Rules Should We Discuss to Ensure This is Successful?
A nesting arrangement can be a great option for many families. However, it’s imperative to take the necessary steps to do what you can as a means of ensuring this agreement works in your favor. As such, there are matters you should discuss with your ex to implement as part of the custody arrangement.
One of the most important matters you should discuss is new partners. While you may not be ready to start dating immediately after your divorce, there may come a time when you or your ex-spouse meets someone new. As such, you should discuss matters relating to whether or not a new partner can spend the night in the home. You may agree to limit their visits to during the day. Additionally, you may come to the agreement that the other spouse must meet the new partner before they are introduced to the children.
Another important factor you should set guidelines for relates to chores and maintenance of the nesting space. Clearly establishing responsibilities can help prevent tension and issues if both spouses feel as though they are the only person contributing to the shared space.
As you can see, navigating a divorce when you share children can be difficult. However, taking the steps to make this process easier for your family can be incredibly beneficial. If you think nesting arrangements are right for your family, it’s in your best interest to connect with an experienced attorney with Barrows Levy PLLC to explore your options. Our team understands how difficult these circumstances can be to navigate, which is why we will do everything possible to assist you through these challenging times. When you need help, our firm is here. Contact us today to learn more.
