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What is “Bird’s Nest” Custody?

Every set of divorced parents—and their children—have different custody needs and desired arrangements. “Bird’s nest” custody is an arrangement gaining popularity lately. This child-centric approach allows the children to stay in one home, rather than switching back and forth between separate homes. Instead, the parents alternate residences.

Who should try bird’s nest custody?

Not every family wants or can handle bird’s nest custody. Parents who share custody and have a good coparenting relationship tend to be the most successful. It’s also helpful if both parents already have another home to live in during noncustodial times, like an apartment or second family home. For that reason, it’s usually only available to families with considerable financial resources. It’s also important that both parents are able to set aside their emotions for the sake of the children.

Custody considerations

Because this arrangement is relatively unusual, most courts will require that the parents agree to the new approach. The first step is to talk to your ex-spouse and your respective attorneys about the arrangement. Your lawyers can guide you through the process, if it seems like a good option.

Next, work on a budget. Are the two of you able to financially support multiple residences and your children?

Finally, draft a sample plan with a schedule and boundaries. Which parent stays with the kids, and when? Is the other parent allowed to come over during your custody time? Which spaces in the house are “off limits” to the other parent, when it’s their custody time? Who pays for what?

Bird’s nest custody should not be entered into lightly. However, if you split amicably and have the resources, it can be comforting for your children to stay in one home.

For assistance with your child custody issues, contact the seasoned child custody lawyers at Appelhof, Pfeifer & Hart, P.A. in St. Paul, MN today.

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  • "Tori had a thorough understanding of my situation and made excellent recommendations to resolve my concerns. She was persistent on communication and handled everything in a very timely manner. I would definitely hire her again in the future if needed." - M.K.

  • "With Appelhof, Pfeifer & Hart, P.A., it is like having a family physician. They are all knowledgeable, thorough, comforting, and the only call I need to make for all my legal needs for many years to come. No matter what the matter, I totally trust their advice and commitment to me and my family." - J.N.

  • "Mary from APH Law helped me thru a difficult divorce. She and the entire staff was there for me every step of the way helping me on what to do next. They listened to what I wanted and helped me achieve what matter the most to me in the divorce settlement." - Dana C.

  • "I chose APH after my initial consultation with Mary. I felt my best interest would be represented. The entire process went excellent, the attorneys and staff communicated effectively and efficiently with me throughout the process as they needed to. Being new to the legal process and verbiage, they walked me and talked me through the next steps and the jargon, I felt completely comfortable and represented. I hope I never have to use legal services again but if I do I will call Mary at APH Law and know that I will be taken care of." - Jeff M.

  • "Divorce is a time of emotion and stress. Mary Pfeifer , My lawyer was professional and compassionate. She was very informative through the process. Her insight helped me in my decisions. She worked hard to obtain a settlement which was fair to both parties. Though, I hope I won't need her help again. It is reassuring to know a good person that is willing to help." - Rod S.

  • "I first came to Ms. Jacquelyn Lutz of Appelhof, Pfeifer and Hart in October of 2016. It was definitely the worst time in my life and she compassionately spoke with me about my options. Ms. Lutz thoroughly explained the laws, statutes, process and what to expect going forward. What was supposed to be one case, turned into three intricate cases that took a huge toll on me and my family. Ms. Lutz represented me in court on all three cases with a vast knowledge of the laws and how to proceed accordingly. During all three cases she kept me informed, calm, gave me resources to utilize, and (most important) gave me a realistic view of what may come next. Ms. Lutz knew each case required a great deal of knowledge and creative thinking on how to legally proceed forward with each case. My family and friends are forever grateful for the amazing representation by Ms. Lutz. I highly recommend Ms. Lutz for anyone needing or considering superb representation for any kind of family law. " - M.H.

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