Protecting What Matters Most

When is a neutral custody exchange site necessary?

On Behalf of | Feb 26, 2021 | Child Custody

Divorcing parents devote a significant amount of time to developing a comprehensive parenting plan, visitation schedule and various custody arrangements. Unfortunately, even with these plans in place, the relationship can change, and meetings can quickly become uncomfortable. For this reason, the divorcing couple might find it necessary to consider neutral child custody exchange sites.

It is not uncommon for a divorce process to be marred by acrimony, emotional debates and hurt feelings. These negatives can last for years after the divorce has been finalized leading to emotionally agonizing face-to-face meetings between exes. Many individuals ultimately feel verbally provoked or physically threatened. In these instances, it is crucial to follow safe visitation transfer protocols.

Here are some suggestions for selecting and maintaining a neutral custody exchange:

  • Select an open, public area as this might defuse a tense situation. Common examples include a mall food court or a popular park.
  • Search for some online resources. Your local area might be home to visitation networks that offer neutral site locations.
  • Make an inquiry with local law enforcement about their recommendations for neutral, protected exchange sites. In fact, the police precinct itself might be available as a location.

Additionally, individuals might work through the legal system to modify their original parenting time plan. They could include provisions for a proxy to either complete or assist during the exchange. A trusted family member or a neutral coworker or carpooler might be used. They could also change the terms of the arrangement to remove contact altogether. Custody exchanges could be made at the child’s natural location. One parent drops the child off at school and the other parent picks the child up. These locations can be school, sporting events, church, track meets or other extracurricular activities.

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