What is alternating residence?
Alternating residence means the child lives roughly equally with both parents. The most common arrangement is every other week, but other schedules also exist.
Parents can agree on alternating residence themselves. If they disagree, the district court can decide on the child's residence and may also decide on alternating residence.
When does it usually work?
Whether alternating residence is suitable always depends on the child's best interests. Factors that tend to matter include:
- that the parents can cooperate and communicate about the child
- that the parents live close enough for the child to attend the same school
- the child's age, needs and own wishes
- that the child is not caught in the middle of a conflict
When may it be unsuitable?
If the conflict between the parents is deep, or the distance between the homes is long, alternating residence can be stressful for the child. The same applies if there are concerns about the child's safety with either parent.
What suits a child may also change over time, for example as the child grows older.
Finances every other week
When the child lives equally with both parents, each parent generally covers the child's costs during their time. This can affect the question of child maintenance. The child allowance (barnbidrag) can be split between the parents.
Getting help
If you disagree about where your child should live, Advokat Kurage can help you review the options and what may be best for your child.