Court allows limited cohabitation while divorce pending, orders no violent or harassing contact

A bond-modification request involving cohabitation and a domestic dispute was addressed in Clayton County State Court. Counsel said the defendant wanted to return to a home where both names remain on the title; the alleged victim expressed safety concerns and noted she has been living in a shelter for domestic violence survivors.

The court permitted a modification allowing Ms. McKeon to return to the residence provided there is no violent or harassing conduct, that standing orders from the superior court (divorce proceedings) be followed, and that the parties keep to separate sleeping areas with no entry into a bedroom designated by the other party. The court emphasized the modification could be revisited if harassment or violence occurs.

Defense counsel noted health concerns (autoimmune disease) and financial constraints that had contributed to the request; the court acknowledged the practical difficulties of cohabitation during divorce but said the modification was permitted with clear behavioral limits and warned both parties of possible revocation for future violations.