Child Custody Exchanges
Child custody exchanges are when a child moves from one parent's care to the other's, usually in a public place. They can happen once or twice a week, every few weeks, once a month, or less frequently. Custody agreements typically specify how often exchanges will take place.
Exchanges can be important for a child's sense of stability, security, and emotional comfort. A well-executed exchange can reduce stress and anxiety, while exchanges that are tense or conflictual can negatively impact a child's relationship with both parents. To make exchanges go smoothly, both parties should prioritize the child's interests and try to keep things civil. Here are some tips that may help:
Prepare in advance
- Pack everything you need and make a final sweep to minimize contact with your ex and ease tension.
Choose a safe location
- The Pikeville Police Department has a designated parking lot as a safe exchange area with adequate lighting, video recording, and 24/7 access.
Consider supervised exchanges
- If either parent feels it is necessary to have an officer physically present at the location an officer may be dispatched to the area
The department encourages all parties to utilize the provided safe exchange area for custody exchanges, when feasiable and practical.
Parties should utilize the non-emergency number to facilitate this request.