Are Co-Parenting and Parallel Parenting the Same?

Divorce is a challenging and undeniably overwhelming experience for those involved, including children. As such, one of the most important matters you’ll need to navigate while going through a divorce is how you and your spouse will parent your children once your divorce is finalized. There are many options, with two popular ones being co-parenting and parallel parenting. If you are interested in learning more about how these differ and which one could be right for your family, the following blog explores what you should know and the importance of working with New Jersey family law attorneys to help you through these complex matters.

How Do Co-Parenting and Parallel Parenting Differ?

Co-parenting is an arrangement in which the parents agree to set aside their differences and continue to work as one cohesive unit to raise their child. This means they will set guidelines to ensure that there is consistency in matters like chores, discipline, expectations, and other child-related matters to ensure that both parents are on the same page.

Parallel parenting, on the other hand, is a method by which the parents refrain from contacting one another and do not interact as one parental unit. Instead, each parent raises the child separately from one another. While some matters, like legal custody and methods of communication, will be determined by the court, all other aspects of parenting are decided individually. This means the parents do not have to interact with one another, thus helping to reduce conflict.

Which One Is Right for My Family?

Unfortunately, it can be difficult to determine what is best for your family, especially while emotions are running high amid a divorce. However, you’ll generally find that if your divorce is civil, if not amicable, or if you and your spouse are wholly committed to it, co-parenting can be an effective arrangement. It is important to understand, however, that this process is not without its challenges, as part of co-parenting is letting things go and focusing solely on your children, which can be difficult for parents still healing after a divorce.

Parallel parenting, on the other hand, is often ideal for those who are unable to effectively communicate with their ex, and do not want to subject their children to a relationship that is tumultuous and bitter. As such, if you and your ex find yourself unable to communicate without it devolving into an argument or you still harbor feelings of resentment towards one another, parallel parenting may be in your best interest, not only for your sake, but for the sake of your children.

Making the best decision for your family can be difficult, which is why working with an experienced family law attorney with Haber Sivler Russoniello & Dunn is in your best interest. Our team understands how difficult these matters can be, which is why we will do everything in our power to help you navigate these difficult times. Contact us today to learn more.