DEAR ABBY: As a passport acceptance agent, I would like to inform the public of a beneficial aid for distressed parents who are concerned that the other parent might steal their child out of the country.
A parent may file a Denial of Passport by notifying The Office of Passport and Advisory Services, 111 19th St. NW, Suite 260, Washington, D.C. 20524-1705. The written request must be accompanied with required information, including the appropriate court order document. Further information may be obtained by calling (202) 736-7000. If there is a possibility that the child has dual nationality, that country's embassy or consulate should be contacted to inquire about denial of that country's passport. -- GERI BROOKS, THURSTON COUNTY CLERK, OLYMPIA, WASH.
DEAR GERI: Thank you for volunteering this helpful, possibly vital information. It's heartbreaking that anyone should need it, but I hope it will bring readers with custody issues some peace of mind.