For co-parents

A neutral halfway point for custody exchanges

A predictable, public, equidistant location keeps exchanges calm, on-time, and out of court. Use the calculator to find a fair midpoint, then pick a public venue nearby.

Quick answer

The safest custody exchange locations are police-station safe exchange zones, well-lit chain restaurants (McDonald's, Chick-fil-A, Starbucks), and public libraries — all within 5 miles of the geographic midpoint between both parents' addresses.

What makes a good exchange location?

  • Equidistant — fair travel time for both parents.
  • Public — witnesses present, security cameras typically rolling.
  • Well-lit — important for evening exchanges.
  • Predictable hours — open 24/7 or matches your schedule reliably.
  • Child-friendly — bathroom, snacks, indoor space if weather turns.

Step-by-step

  1. Open the halfway calculator.
  2. Enter both home addresses. We compute the geographic midpoint.
  3. Filter for "Coffee", "Restaurants", or search for nearby police stations.
  4. Agree on a single location and document it in your parenting plan.

This page is informational and not legal advice. For court-ordered custody arrangements, consult a family law attorney in your state.