While co-parenting may be a great option for children, it can be stressful for the parents. If you don’t get along with your child’s other parent, then it can make custody exchanges miserable for everyone.
If this is the case, it may be time to look into supervised custody exchanges. In most cases, these are available for a small fee and provide benefits for everyone involved.
What happens during a supervised custody exchange?
During a supervised exchange, a neutral third party will be present at the exchange to facilitate the handoff of the child or children involved. In many cases, parents don’t even see or interact with each other.
With supervised exchanges, parents are protected from one another. Another benefit is that children aren’t exposed to the conflict that may occur if they did have contact.
It’s important to note that a supervised custody exchange is not the same as supervised visitation. With supervised visitation, a third party is present the entire time a child visits with one parent to prevent risks.
Who provides the supervision for a custody exchange?
Usually, the court will order supervised exchanges; however, parents can arrange them without the court, too. If a court orders this, then it will determine who supervises. Sometimes a family member, relative or friend will be approved. In other cases, the parents must hire a professional.
The court has additional say in the exchange, too, including where the exchanges will occur. Usually, this is a public location, but if a professional is hired, then an exchange center may be used.
Protecting your children
Supervised custody exchanges are beneficial for everyone involved and protect your children from witnessing conflict between their parents. Consider this for your situation if it makes sense.