What Is a Parenting Marriage?

 Posted on August 08, 2023 in Family Law

Divorce is not for everyone and today, couples have many options. One that is becoming more common is a parenting marriage. In a parenting marriage, the couple involved are no longer romantic with each other. However, they do not want to get a divorce and instead, want to redefine their relationship to each other. Although the marital relationship has changed, many things remain the same in a parenting marriage. The couple often lives in the same home albeit in different rooms, and they each have equal responsibilities for raising the children.

While a parenting marriage can simplify the process of ending a romantic relationship, it does come with many unique issues. It is still important to speak to a Hinsdale family lawyer that can help prevent disputes from arising.

Why Do People Choose a Parenting Marriage?

The idea of parenting marriages is quite new, but there are several reasons why couples choose this route when they know they no longer love each other romantically. The most common of these include:

• Uphold the existing family structure: Divorce does sometimes rip families apart. When the entire family unit can stay together and the parents can continue to work cooperatively together, a parenting marriage might make sense.
• Reduce stress: The end of a relationship is always stressful, but many people believe a parenting marriage can keep some of that stress at bay. While parents should always talk about the new arrangement with their children, it can reduce stress for the entire family.
• Necessity: Divorce is neither a quick or cheap process. Some couples simply feel as though they do not have the resources necessary to go through it. If they can work together, it may prevent some of the negative impacts of divorce.

Parenting Marriages: Not for Everyone

Parenting marriages are not for everyone that is facing divorce. However, more and more people are finding that it is the right fit for the situation. 

Each couple's situation and emotional dynamics are unique, making it essential to carefully consider whether this arrangement aligns with their long-term goals and well-being.

Parenting marriages may not be suitable for everyone due to several reasons:

• Emotional Challenges

  The transition from a romantic relationship to a platonic one can be emotionally challenging for individuals who may still have lingering feelings for their partner or aren't ready to let go of the romantic aspects of the relationship.

• Communication Difficulties

  Maintaining a parenting marriage could become problematic if the couple struggles with effective communication.

• Lack of Closure

  Staying in a parenting marriage may hinder the process of emotional healing and closure for both partners. 

• Unresolved Issues

  Some may consider a parenting marriage a temporary solution to unresolved problems in their relationship, leading to prolonged tension and dissatisfaction.

• Disparities in Commitment

  One partner may be more committed to the parenting marriage than the other. 

• Impact on Children

  While parenting marriages aim to prioritize the well-being of the children, it's essential to consider the potential impact on them. 

• Legal and Financial Complexities

  Issues related to property division, inheritance, and future changes in circumstances might become complicated without a formal legal separation.

• Social Stigma

  Society may not fully understand or accept parenting marriages, leading to judgment or disapproval from friends, family, or the community. 

• Unrealistic Expectations

  Misaligned expectations can lead to disappointment and conflict in the long run.

• Personal Growth and Exploration

  Staying in a parenting marriage might hinder the opportunity for personal growth and exploration of new relationships. 

Why You Still Need a Hinsdale Family Lawyer for a Parenting Marriage

Parenting marriages are sometimes precarious relationships. A couple may plan to work together but disputes can still arise. A postnuptial agreement can prevent these from occurring. Like premarital agreements, postnuptial agreements outline separate and marital property, and can even include other provisions, such as spousal maintenance.

For example, one spouse may need money to create a living space for themselves inside the home and request maintenance from the other party. Child custody and child support are generally not allowed to be included in these contracts, but they can be very useful in other situations.

Our Hinsdale Family Lawyers Can Help with Your Case

For couples today, there are many ways to end a marriage. Whether you are getting a traditional divorce or need help drafting an agreement to protect your interests, our skilled Hinsdale family lawyers can help. At the Law Office of Martoccio & Martoccio, we know every situation is unique and we develop a customized approach to every case. Call us today at 630-920-8855 or contact us online to schedule a free initial consultation with one of our skilled attorneys.