May a divorced couple meet to spend time with their young child, and what limits apply to their interaction?

Summary

By default, a divorced couple are non-mahram strangers, so meeting without need that leads to staring, seclusion and intimate conversation is not permitted. This ruling holds that meeting is permissible because of genuine needs tied to the child's maintenance, education and welfare, with the mother as custodian. They may not be alone together, so a third party such as a mahram or a trustworthy Muslim woman must be present, or the meeting must take place in public without causing fitnah. The current wife is advised to think well of Allah, entrust the matter to Him after making effort and relying on Him, and not let jealousy turn into suspicion.

Written in our own words from the original fatwa — check the source before acting on it.