On behalf of Stange Law Firm, PC posted in Child Custody on Friday, January 15, 2016.
How many divorced people in Illinois and Missouri could be next-door neighbors with their ex? Can any of our readers ever see themselves living in the same building — or even the same house — as the former love of their lives?
More people than you might think would answer “yes.” Often, there are practical reasons for divorced couples to live near each other, especially if they have children together. As one divorced dad recently told The New York Times, living in the same building as his ex-wife means their daughters need not pack their bags every time there is a custody changeover. He also enjoys the fact that his ex-wife can help when he has a work emergency, and vice versa.
Saving on living expenses can also make continuing to quasi-cohabitate with your ex tempting. This is especially true in very expensive cities like New York or San Francisco, but any time exes are willing to share the rent or the mortgage, that is money that can go to other expenses.
Of course, this is probably not a realistic option for most divorced couples. The relationship became fractured for a reason, and it is likely too painful or undesirable for most people to live in the same address as their ex. Privacy would also be a tricky issue.
However, it is likely that the two of you will continue to live in the same city or at least the same state, so that the children can see both parents regularly. Eventually, one parent may wish to move out of state and take the kids with them. If the other parent objects, it may be necessary for both parents to hire a family law attorney.
