Making Child Custody Exchanges Safer

Child custody exchanges are often challenging, but in some tragic cases, they can turn dangerous or even deadly. Consider the heartbreaking story of Cassie Carli, a Florida mother who vanished during a custody exchange in 2022. Her tragic case led to the 2024 passage of Florida’s Cassie Carli Law, aimed at enhancing protections for parents and children during exchanges.

Cassie Carli's Story: A Cautionary Tale

On March 27, 2022, Cassie Carli went missing after meeting her ex-partner, Marcus Spanevelo, to pick up their 4-year-old daughter, Saylor. The court had designated a Walmart in Destin, Florida, as their exchange location, but Marcus suggested a closer spot, a restaurant, just a mile from Cassie’s home. She agreed, likely thinking the public, high-traffic location would provide safety.

Hours later, Cassie’s father received a suspicious text from her phone, claiming she was having car trouble and would be staying with Marcus overnight. When neither she nor Saylor could be reached the next day, her family grew alarmed. Despite Marcus's changing stories about where he had last seen her, Cassie’s daughter was eventually found safe, while Marcus was arrested for evidence destruction. Days later, Cassie’s remains were discovered in a shallow grave in Alabama, at a property linked to Marcus.

Cassie’s case is representative of the dangers of high-conflict custody battles, particularly when involving individuals with a history of coercive control, manipulation, and abuse. Despite Cassie previously obtaining a domestic violence injunction, the legal system was unable to protect her. Her tragic death has since led to the creation of new legislation aimed at preventing similar tragedies.

What Is the Cassie Carli Law?

In response to Cassie’s murder, Florida enacted the Cassie Carli Law, which requires every county sheriff’s office to designate at least one safe exchange location. These sites must meet specific safety criteria, including:

• 24/7 accessibility for parents to exchange their children.

• Bright lighting and continuous video surveillance.

• Security measures to deter potential threats, with footage retained for at least 45 days.

This criteria provides a secure environment that minimizes risks for parents and children during custody exchanges. Florida isn’t the only state to take steps to improve custody exchange safety. Other states such as California, Texas, New Jesey and New York offer supervised visitation programs that provide neutral locations where trained professionals monitor exchanges. Or, at the very least, offer safe exchange zones in police departments and other public spaces to ensure security. Despite these efforts, there is no nationwide standard for custody exchange safety. This leaves many parents feeling vulnerable to potentially risky situations without clear legal protections.

Practical Tips for Ensuring Safe Custody Exchanges

Regardless of existing legal measures in your state, parents can take proactive steps to ensure their safety during custody exchanges:

Use Designated Safe Exchange Locations

Choose official exchange sites with security features such as video monitoring and police presence. If these are unavailable, opt for public places with high foot traffic, such as libraries or shopping centers.

Bring a Neutral Third Party Or Friend

Having a friend, family member, or even a professional observer can add an extra layer of protection and serve as a witness in case of disputes.

Maintain Documentation

Utilize co-parenting apps like OurFamilyWizard or TalkingParents to keep track of exchange schedules, communications, and agreements. These apps create a documented trail that can be used in court if needed.

Keep Exchanges Brief and Cordial

Limiting interactions to the exchange itself and avoiding confrontational discussions can prevent conflicts from escalating in front of the child.

Have a Backup Plan

In case of unexpected changes or safety concerns, have a plan in place, such as notifying law enforcement or seeking legal intervention if the other parent refuses to comply with the custody order.

Trust Your Instincts

If something feels off or unsafe, take immediate action by seeking help from authorities or rescheduling the exchange for a safer environment.

Legal Considerations for Parents

Parents involved in contentious custody arrangements should be fully aware of their legal rights and responsibilities. Child custody agreements typically outline detailed terms for exchanges, and violations can lead to legal consequences.

If a parent consistently refuses to comply with exchange terms or if safety concerns arise, they have the right to seek modifications to the custody agreement through the court. A family law attorney can provide guidance on the best course of action to protect the child’s interests and ensure compliance with the custody order.

Take Action to Protect Yourself and Your Child

Cassie Carli’s story serves as a stark reminder of the risks involved in contentious custody battles. Taking proactive steps to ensure safe custody exchanges—such as using designated safe zones, maintaining thorough documentation, and seeking legal support—can protect both parents and children from potential harm.

If you are navigating a difficult custody situation and need legal guidance, HarmonyLaw.com is here to help. Our compassionate family law attorneys provide expert guidance tailored to your unique needs. Whether you're seeking a safe exchange plan or need legal support in modifying custody agreements, we’re just a phone call away. Contact us today to ensure your family's safety and well-being. We offer top-tier legal representation at an affordable price, in comparison to large law firms. We’ll match you up with a highly-skilled, compassionate attorney in your hometown.