Unless an Illinois couple going through a divorce has researched possible parenting arrangements on the internet, it is possible that “bird nesting” is not something about which they have heard. This unusual type of child custody arrangement has gained notoriety in recent years as a viable way to divide parenting time. Now, Hollywood is taking on bird nesting in a new comedy series, “Splitting Up Together.” However, divorcing parents considering this co-parenting option will want to get more information about it from a family law attorney.
In bird nesting, the children stay in the marital home while the parents take turns living with the children. This allows the children to maintain their lifestyles, even if only temporarily. The arrangement provides children with the structure and stability that most children need, which could help them with the transitions that divorce inevitably bring.
Parents may also find this arrangement beneficial if they have a lease that is not yet expired at the time of the divorce or want to wait use this arrangement while trying to sell the home. However, this type of custody can also be expensive since each parent needs a place to live when not with the children. It also requires that both parents are on the same page when it comes to raising the children.
If this child custody arrangement sounds appealing to a divorcing Illinois couple, it may be worth it to conduct more research regarding the pros and cons. A trial period may also be warranted to see whether the parties can sustain bird nesting over the long haul. Considering all of the potential issues that could arise with this and other parenting plans, the agreement needs to be documented in such a way that each parent’s rights are protected and they have a way to resolve any problems they may encounter.
Source: CNBC, “This hot Hollywood divorce trend may not be for you“, Lorie Konish, April 16, 2018
