Comprehensive Legal Services. Customized Representation.

What is nesting, and how does it work in custody situations?

On Behalf of | Feb 16, 2023 | Family Law

Child custody is often one of the biggest factors in a Florida divorce. Parents must decide how to split up their parenting time and find what works best for their children. One of the more unconventional options is nesting.

Understanding nesting in child custody

Nesting is a type of child custody that allows the child to remain living in the family home after their parents get a divorce. Meanwhile, the parents take turns living in the home to continue raising the child. Although nesting is not a typical type of parenting plan, it continues to gain popularity because it helps children enjoy better consistency after a divorce.

While nesting is a good idea, it’s not appropriate for all families. For example, parents who have gone through a bitter divorce or those who had a situation of domestic violence may not be well-suited for it. Nesting can only work if the parents are willing to amicably work together to make things as comfortable as possible for their kids.

Benefits of nesting

Nesting as a child custody alternative can provide benefits to everyone involved. Because they stay in the home they’ve known for so long, children can have better consistency and feel more comfortable. They don’t have to leave everything that’s familiar and are able to maintain their neighborhood friendships and stay in their current school.

Parents can also benefit from nesting. When they choose this option for child custody, they are able to share a rental apartment while living in it during the other’s parenting time in the family home. This allows them to share the rent and save money because they don’t have to search for new homes. If the mortgage on the family home is still valid, they can also continue paying it off jointly.

Depending on the situation, nesting might be the best custody option for your children. They can better adjust to all the changes your divorce brings.